Page 327 – Summer Festival Guide

Beverly ‘Guitar’ Watkins to play first UK show at Red Rooster Festival

June 10, 2020April 29, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

Red Rooster is delighted to announce an exclusive UK Festival performance from the mutli-award-winning blues legend Beverly ‘Guitar’ Watkins. At the age of 74, she has in six decades of performing, never played in the UK.

Saying that Beverly ‘Guitar’ Watkins is simply a guitar player is like saying a tiger is a house cat. Fearless, ferocious and phenomenal, Beverly Guitar Watkins repeatedly proves she is anything but domesticated. As a teen, Watkins teamed up with the legendary Piano Red and has rocked venues with the best of them for 5 decades, including artists such as James Brown, B.B. King and Ray Charles to name a few. In 1998, with Koko Taylor and Rory Block, Ms. Watkins was part of the all-star Women of the Blues “Hot Mamas” tour.

Also just announced is the incredibly talented young trouboudar Jamie N Commons. Born in Bristol Commons moved to Chicago at the tender age of six with his family and it was there that he developed his deep love of American music. Having spent the last few months in LA recording his new EP (due for release on May 6), Commons is already picking up many high profile supporters including US rapper Eminem who has sampled his voice for upcoming single. Other additions include Dublin-based brothers Hudson Taylor, The Riptide Movement, St Paul and The Broken Bones and Jesse Dee.

The beautiful grounds of Euston Hall, Suffolk will be the location for the new and exciting Red Rooster festival, which launches this September 13-15^th.

Embracing the sounds and lifestyle of the American Deep South, Red Rooster aims to become the premier boutique festival for Rhythm and Blues,Americana, Soul, Roots and Country music.

Gates will open on the afternoon of the 13^th September and finish in the early hours of the morning of the 15^th September.

BBC 6 Music DJ, Cerys Matthews is happy to see a new roots and blues festival:

"Through my BBC 6Music radio show I'm really aware of an ever increasing audience for roots and blues music. The UK doesn't have an equivalent of the legendary New Orleans or Newport Jazz Festivals; this being music made to be performed live, the idea of a real Rhythm and Blues Festival such as Red Rooster will create a great excitement, with both audience and live acts queuing up to be there "

Thunder, Devin Townsend and more added to Download Festival

November 18, 2018April 29, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

Download Festival continues to score out of the park with the announcement that a further 25 acts have been added to this year’s line up, including Thunder, Kvelertak, Devin Townsend and We Are The Ocean.

Headlined by Slipknot, Iron Maiden and Rammstein, Download Festival takes place 14-16 June 2013 in Donington Park. Weekend and day tickets are available at www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Having last played Download as one of festival promoter Andy Copping’s ‘secret acts’ in 2009, classic rock favourites Thunder will be returning to Donington soil on the Saturday – hopefully guitarist/singer Luke Morley will have recovered from riding 161 miles on a pedal bike from London to Donington as part of the “Heavy Metal Truants” charity bike ride organized by Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood! For more information about Heavy Metal Truants go to www.heavymetaltruants.com.

Following their Download debut in 2011, hardcore Norwegian punkers Kvelertak will be back with a vengeance to perform tracks from their new album Meir. The inimitable Devin Townsend will also be back at Download, this time taking it down a notch to perform on the acoustic Jagermeister stage. Also confirmed for this year’s Download with a wealth of new material to please the crowds at the Jagermeister stage will be Essex four-piece We Are The Ocean.

No stranger to Download, London’s Zico Chain are confirmed for the Friday, fresh of the back of their support slot on Steve Harris’ solo tour. Hot new metal act Blood Command – another Norwegian export – will be looking forward to showcasing their live act this year. Blending stoner metal and garage rock, Black Moth are confirmed for the Saturday, as are hard riffers The Wild Lies.

New London punk band The Howling are confirmed, alongside local Birmingham pop-punkers Page 44 and the fierce Wounds.

The acoustic Jagermeister Stage at Download is a great chance to catch up and coming rock acts as well as stripped down performances from acts from the other stages over the weekend. In addition to Devin Townsend and We Are The Ocean, the Jagermeister stage will see the following acts: Hear Kitty Kitty, Toseland, Rob Lynch, Acoustic TV, Straight Lines, Fahran, The Killing Floor, The Afterparty, Pig Iron, Night x Night, Crash Mansion, The Graveltones, Arthemis and Avosetta, alongside acoustic performances from Walking Papers, Buffalo Summer, Crowns, Heaven’s Basement, Skin and Red White & Blues.

Reading & Leeds Festival announce Wretch 32 & 20+ more acts for BBC 1Xtra Stage

November 18, 2018April 28, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

With Wiley and Devlin already announced as headliners for the stage, Wretch 32 is revealed as the final headliner for the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, plus may more names!

A-Z of Artists announced for Reading & Leeds Festivals 2013 to date (New in bold):

Action Bronson	The Family Rain	MS MR
Alex Clare	Fenech-Soler	Murkage
Alkaline Trio	FIDLAR	Nathan Flutebox Lee & The Clinic
Alt-J	Findlay	Night Works
AlunaGeorge	Flux Pavillion	Nine Inch Nails
And So I Watch You From Afar	Foals	Palma Violets
Angel Haze	Frank Turner	Parquet Courts
Arcane Roots	Fred V & Grafix	Peace
A$AP Rocky	Friction	Phoenix
A-Trak	Frightened Rabbit	P Money
Azealia Banks	Funeral For A Friend	Pure Love
Baauer	Gallows	Quicksand
Balthazar	Ghostpoet	Redlight
Bastille	Giggs	Robert Delong
Biffy Clyro	Green Day	RX Bandits
Big Black Delta	Hadouken!	Scrufizzer
The Blackout	Haim	DJ Semtex
Bondax	Half Moon Run	Sick Of It All
Brand New	Heaven's Basement	SKATERS
Bring Me The Horizon	Iggy Azalea	Skindred
British Sea Power	Imagine Dragons	Skrillex
Broke’N'£nglish	Is Tropical	Spector
The Bronx	Jacob Plant feat Majestic	Splashh
Bury Tomorrow	Jagwar Ma	The Strypes
California X	Jake Bugg	Stylo G
Cerebral Ballzy	The Jim Jones Revue	Sub Focus Live
Chapel Club	Johnny Marr	Surfer Blood
Charli XCX	Kate Nash	Swim Deep
Chase and Status	King Prawn	System Of A Down
Chvrches	Knytro	Tame Impala
City & Colour	Kodaline	Temples
Clean Bandit	Knife Party	The 1975
The Computers	Left Boy	Theme Park
Context	The Living End	Tim Burgess
Crossfaith	Lower Than Atlantis	Toddla T Sound
Crystal Fighters	Lucy Rose	To Kill A King
David Rodigan	The Lumineers	Tomahawk
Deap Vally	Lunar C	Tribes
Deftones	Magnetic Man	twenty one pilots
Devlin	Major Lazer	Twin Atlantic
Dillon Francis	Mallory Knox	We Are The In Crowd
Disclosure	Merchandise	While She Sleeps
Drenge	Mic Righteous	White Lies
Editors	Mikill Pane	Wiley
Eminem	MMX	Willy Moon
Enter Shikari Sound System	MØ	Wretch 32
Etta Bond	Modestep
Fall Out Boy	Ms Dynamite

NEW NAMES FOR THE BBC RADIO 1XTRA STAGE

In a major UK festival first, Reading & Leeds will each have a dedicated BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage delivering the best of hip-hop and grime from the UK and farther afield, which will run across all three festival days and showcase the cream of urban artists and music on offer. This is one of the most important additions that Reading & Leeds have witnessed for a long time and Festival Republic are thrilled to announce more names for the stage.

READING FRIDAY 23^RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24^TH

Headlining the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage on this day will be UK grime artist Wiley. After an amazing year in 2012 scoring two UK Top 5 singles, including his first No. 1 with the summer smash ‘Heatwave’ and the more recent No. 3 ‘Can You Hear Me (Ayayaya)’ which featured Skepta, his set at Reading & Leeds will be one to get involved in.

A widely respected DJ and producer, Toddla T brings a full out live show to the stage. The Toddla T Sound features both elements of live performance and DJing with live vocalists, including Shola Ama, Serocee and MC DRS. Drawing upon his two albums to date, 'Skanky Skanky' and 'Watch Me Dance' and a heap of custom edits and refixes especially for the project, the show will also be augmented with the bespoke visuals of Sheffield designers, Peter and Paul. Add all these elements together and you have something really special on your hands.

He will be joined on the line-up by Grime heavyweight P Money, whose mix of hardcore grime and dubstep has made him a fixture at club nights and a festival staple. Following the launch of his self-released EP ‘Guns Bitches and Weed’ last year – which quickly became a web phenomenon – NY based rapper, singer and producer Left Boy joins the 1Xtra bill. Also performing is Stylo G, bringing his slick, vicious beats to Reading & Leeds and getting the festival audience skanking with a reggae-tinged masterclass.

The BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage also sees the impressive musical talents of Nathan Flutebox Lee & The Clinic, whose ability to simultaneously beatbox and play the flute has earned him a global following. Manchester-based musical collectiveMurkage return to Reading & Leeds and upcoming London MC Scrufizzer, whose supersonic speed-rhymes have earned him acclaim from Radio 1 DJs, MTV and The Guardian, also joins the stage.

READING SATURDAY 24^TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25^TH

Already confirmed to join Wiley as a fellow headliner on the new BBC Radio 1Xtra stage is Devlin. Dagenham-based rapper Devlin returns to the Festivals with his sideways social commentary and formidable flow. Having scored a Top 10 single with 'Rewind', he's leading the UK's next generation of rap stars.

Added to the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage is NY newcomer, Action Bronson, a rapper who has been gaining heat on rap forums, enjoying acclaim on music blogs and has just featured on XXL’s ‘Freshman Top 10’ list of upcoming rap talent this year.

Heralded as putting ‘road rap’ on the map, South London rapper Giggs will be returning to the festival armed with new tracks and an impressive following. He’s Peckham’s finest via Jamaica and leading the evolutionary charge of grime in 2013.

Mic Righteous is one of the hottest young stars of the UK hip-hop and grime scene. With over seven million YouTube hits and growing, his appearance at Reading & Leeds promises great things.

Also added to the bill is the presenter of flagship BBC Radio 1xtra Hip Hop show, renowned DJ and producer DJ Semtex. Expect the freshest tracks, plenty of first plays and a bouncing atmosphere when Semtex blows up at Reading & Leeds.

Winning ‘Best Newcomer’ and ‘Performance of the Year’ for his rap battles in Don’t Flop, Lunar C’s no-gimmicks approach has transferred perfectly into the live arena and his set at Reading & Leeds is the perfect place to see him live.

Also on the BBC Radio 1Xtra line-up are Manchester's alternative hip-hop faction Broke’N'£nglish, one of the most highly regarded names on the hip-hop scene due to their incendiary live performances and innovative production techniques, which combine electronica, funk, jazz, R&B and hip-hop. Fresh from supporting Devlin this week, self-described “soul with a bit of weird”, Etta Bond prepares to take on the biggest shows of her life at Reading & Leeds.

READING SUNDAY 25^TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23^RD

Reading & Leeds can now reveal Wretch 32 as the final headliner for the new BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, following an amazing year for the London MC. After an arena tour supporting Example, he also became the face of some iconic brands at the London Olympics. With his major label debut album ‘Black and White’ amassing over a million sales, Wretch 32 is widely acknowledged by his peers as one of the pioneers of the UK grime scene; be sure to catch his first ever performance at Reading & Leeds this summer.

Joining the bill is American lyricist Angel Haze who sees herself as more of a rock star than a rapper. That said she raps so ferociously, deftly and with real menace, that 'flow' would seem far too mellow a word to describe her delivery.

The BBC Radio 1Xtra stage also welcomes the first lady of female MCing, Ms Dymanite. The legendary Brit Award-winner and recipient of the 2002 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ has been thrilling crowds for over a decade and will be playing the best from her hits in a high energy performance.

Presenting the best rhythms from the UK to Trenchtown will be iconic 1Xtra DJ, David Rodigan MBE. Heralded as one of the masters of the sound system, his unrivalled vinyl collection and knowledge of reggae culture past and present will ensure that revellers will be enjoy the most thrilling reggae sounds from across the globe.

As well as trading in rap breakbeats and pop hooks, Mikill Pane seamlessly straddles guitar-based sounds, including punk, ska and reggae, making him a firm favourite and collaborator with the likes of Ed Sheeran and Example.

Ghostpoet's debut album 'Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam' was a worthy nominee for the 2011 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ and exposed his talent to an eager new audience. His hotly tipped second album is due out soon and promises to provide the perfect soundtrack to this summer’s sultry evenings.

Also joining the line-up is MC Context. Winner of the MTV ‘Brand New Unsigned’ competition in 2012, championed by the likes of Mistajam, Huw Stephens and Charlie Sloth, and now gearing up to support Devlin on his upcoming tour, Context's distinctive take on soulful drum n bass, dubstep and hip hop is sure to be well received by the festival crowd.

Despite growing up in the States and Jamaica, Knytro has always been obsessed with the knights, folklore and ancestry of England – hence the name. Claiming to be ‘so Hip-Hop it should be illegal’, he’s always on point and his legions of fans will relish the chance to see him grace the stage at Reading & Leeds.

Other artists playing across the Festivals include the Main Stage UK festival exclusive headliners Green Day, Eminem, and Biffy Clyro, plus UK festival exclusive performances from Fall Out Boy, System Of A Down and Deftones. Skrillex,Major Lazer, Azealia Banks take to the NME/Radio 1 Stage and Flux Pavillion, Redlight and Night Works appear on the BBC Radio 1Dance Stage, plus many many more!

First acts announced for The Big Mix in Shoreditch, London

November 18, 2018April 27, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

It’s back, and it’s bigger than ever. The Big Mix festival returns on Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 June to take over Shoreditch with its unique mix of live music, comedy, cabaret and much, much more, all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

For five years the event has brought the best artists to you for an excellent cause, with performers and support from acts including Tim Burgess, Edith Bowman, Frank Turner, Chris Addison and more. For its fifth birthday The Big Mix is going all out, spreading this summer’s festival over a whole weekend and some of East London’s most iconic venues.

Full weekend tickets grant exclusive access to all of the artists and entertainment taking place at Rich Mix, The Queen of Hoxton, The Book Club and Drunken Monkey – from bands and DJ’s to musical bingo and stand up comedy.

‘The Big Mix presents….’ tickets are fresh on the scene this year – a series of one-off, breakaway performances at Cargo, Old Blue Last and Hoxton Hall to showcase some of the hottest musicians of the moment.

The festival will also host pop up stalls, street food, more live music and exclusive discounts for all ticket holders at the infamous BOXPARK.

COMEDY
AT THE QUEEN OF HOXTON

This is a long-standing and much celebrated part of The Big Mix, last year headlined by Chris Addison, in 2013 promising more of the same top quality live comedy from ne and established acts. Although this year’s headliner is being a kept a closely guarded secret, in true Big Mix style, some names have been announced.

Inventor, illustrator and comedian Sam Fletcher’s highly energetic stand-up was nominated for ‘Foster’s Best Newcomer’ at the Edinburgh Festival last year, The Independent declaring, “no other show has made me smile so much this year”. Sam has said on performing at The Big Mix, “to be doing a gig that will ultimately help tackle cancer is incredibly gratifying. Usually I’m doing them to help alcoholic, struggling comedy promoters.”

Kooky character actor Holly Burn was recently named as The Independent’s ‘One To Watch’ for comedy in 2013, described by The Radio Times as being, “like a holiday camp run by clowns and deviants… there’s plenty of fun to be had.”

Sharp-tongues French stand-up Marcel Lucont enjoys nothing more than belittling his overseas cousins, having recently appeared on Russell Howard’s Good News, he’s also had the support of Time Out who quoted him as a, “wonderful French wit… superb stuff… his elegant, sardonic turns of phrase are an utter joy.”

About performing at The Big Mix, Marcel has said, “I'm not going to pretend that those in my profession are as practically helpful in the world as doctors or scientists… sometimes medicine is the best medicine… but I do believe comedy enhances people's existence, and I'm happy to be involved with this great cause, set up for those whose lives are being tragically cut short.”

Tiffany Stevenson has been a regular guest on the likes of 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Never Mind The Buzzcocks, also appearing in Dizzee Rascal’s ‘Dirty Cash’ video, but it’s her stand-up show that prompted The Scotsman to say, “if you’re at all into comedy, this is a must see show.”

Having recently presented ITV2’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Now!, Rob Beckett is an excitable comic who’s fast becoming apparent on everyone’s radar, and undoubtedly a star of the future.

Also confirmed for this summer’s event is performances from Steph Peart, David Hannant, Ian Smith, Oyster Eyes, Meryl O’Rourke, and Joe Bor, with more still to announce.

The Big Mix is also welcoming back this year by popular demand, Jess Indeedy’s Music Bingo. Join American presenter Jess Indeedy and the ever-eclectic DJ Helix for their famously addictive musical bingo. Cross songs off your bingo card as you hear them, and compete to win some amazing (and kitsch!) prizes!

SOHO SHORTS
AT HOXTON HALL

Soho Shorts have been announced as a film partner of The Big Mix, adding yet another facet to this incredible arts festival. They will program 90 minutes of short films at Hoxton Hall from 4:00pm – 5:30pm.

Established by Rushes Postproduction Ltd, Soho Shorts is a not-for-profit organisation celebrating the wealth of talent working across all genres of short film including live action drama, documentary, animation and music video. They aim to encourage and create arenas introducing creativity, new/established practitioners and those partners that can help assist in supporting and furthering people’s ideas.

Since 1999 they have facilitated and celebrated the work of newcomers and established filmmakers was promoted by screening work at cinemas, screening rooms and cafes throughout Soho and London’s West End. In conjunction with these programs they hold a large variety of debates, networking sessions and discussions on all aspects of media and filmmaking. www.sohoshorts.com.

CABARET
AT THE BOOK CLUB

In true Bix Mix style, a full program of cabaret will be on offer at The Book Club, featuring;

Lady Beau Peep – A burlesque chanteuse, seasoned comperé and producer. A sassy songstress with a winning combination of glamour, dance and song infused with seriously cheeky humour! She has entertained audiences in some of the best venues in Europe, with residencies in London venues, and appearances at Koko's in Camden, Home House, and The Groucho Club, to name a few. Lady Beau Peep has entertained at numerous private/corporate parties, weddings and festival gigs around the UK, St Tropez, and Belgium.
Famous clients include, the Arctic Monkeys, Ron Dennis (McLaren), Ivana Trump, Buzz Aldrin and Joan Collins.

Madame Galina – From stints entertaining the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, a private performance for Her Majesty The Queen, the Olivier Award winning show C'est Barbican, two series on Channel 4, Ruby Wax Does The Business on the BBC, a Channel 4 pilot at the request of Janet Street-Porter…. Madame Galina wows audiences wherever she goes with her extraordinary dancing and acid tongue. She has performed sell out shows at the Edinburgh Festival and nearly every major arts festival in Europe and has recently entertained the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan giving her the title ‘New Forces Sweetheart'.

Chivaree Circus (Edward Gosling) – is a multi-skilled juggler and object manipulator. He co-founded Chivaree Circus to create exciting immersive events and collaborates with various circus and cabaret nights across London. He writes for various publications including This Is Cabaret. He really likes hats.

Lily Raptor – Specialists in hula hoop, contortion, fire manipulation and aerial hoop. She co-founded Chivaree Circus. She also enjoys making costumes and choreographing group performances.

Honey Wilde – Named one of the top 100 burlesque performers worldwide in 2010, Honey breathes life and spirit into the tradition of British satirical burlesque. Honey Wilde has won fans around the UK and across the Atlantic since 2008 with her quirky comic creations. A headliner at the Festival of the Erotic Arts in 2012, Honey's many performances include featuring at the New York Burlesque Festival, London Burlesque Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Lady Catalina – This burlesque star is the choreographer and front woman of ‘The Cream Tease’ show. “A body more killer than Jack the Ripper and Charles Manson combined”- Bizarre magazine. “Lady Catalina is a hot Burlesque Goddess” – Courtney Love

Blues & Burlesque – Pete Saunders -Live music Cabaret are a cabaret group formed 4 years ago by piano player Pete Saunders. Working a rich vein of blues jazz and standards he has a deep gritty unaffected voice and a rhythmic piano style.

Harlow Heartbreak – With a love of the darker elements to music and theatre she has combined these with sarcasm and classic burlesque costumes to create unique stage acts with a soundtrack to modern music.

Magi (Thomas Wood) – Magician and Clown. As well as being a fantastic close up magician, Magi has been working the comedy circuit in London for the past 18 months. Wonderfully funny and original stage performer, utilizing both his skills in magic and physical comedy.

Adam Music Tenor – As well as Opera & Classical Music, Adam also loves to sing Jazz and Swing classics as well as songs from the show. Always keen to try new things, have fun and bring classical music to a wider audience – Adam often performs as an Operatic Busker; having sung in the legendary it inside Covent Garden Piazza and regularly Notting Hill, St Christopher's Place and on London's Southbank.

Ginger Blush – Burlesque. As winner of London Burlesque Week Newcomer 2010, Ginger and her killer curves have shimmied straight to the top of burlesque bill for performances in top London venues, theatres across Europe and a head-lining performance at the London Burlesque Week Opening Gala 2011. Keeping her finger on the performance pulse has resulted in a recent nomination for Best Burlesque Act 2013 at The London Cabaret Awards.

Sukki Singapora – Crowned "one of the Most beautiful women in Burlesque" (Female First) and "Ambassador of Burlesque for Singapore" (Chwennyland), Sukki gained phenomenal global recognition by being the World's first Professional Burlesque Performer from Singapore, capturing the imagination and heart of the nation. An international burlesque superstar who is often booked for world-class shows and Sukki is known for her lavish and elaborate performances and costumes, which she intertwines with a unique bollywood-influenced style.

Plus: Kitten Von Strumpet and Cherry On Fire also due to appear.

TREASURE HUNT
AT BOXPARK

Our friends at A Door In The Wall will be holding an extra special treasure hunt for festival goers with the chance to win a mystery prize. Most famous for their murder mystery treasure hunt events that take place on the streets of London, A Door In The Wall design and run interactive games that take place in the real world.

As well as having a market and food stalls, BOXPARK shops will also be offering festival goers a discount over the weekend, and there’ll also be a small music bill.

THE BIG PRIZE DRAW
AT BOXPARK

Enter THE BIX MIX PRIZE DRAW to help raise even more cash for Macmillan and for the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

The star prize is 2 places volunteering on The Great Project’s award winning Great Orangutan Project at the Matang Wildlife Centre in Malaysian Borneo, including flights and accommodation.

Volunteers join the team to play a role in animal husbandry and rehabilitation for orangutans at the center as part of their journey to be released back in to the wild.

Winners have 3 months to book their trip and until the end of June 2014 to travel. This prize has been donated by our sponsors, The Great Projects, a company that organise wildlife conservation projects and tours with endangered species all over the world.

Other prizes include an IPAD 2, and a London photography course worth £200. There is also lots of meals and fitness passes to give away. Tickets are £5 / 3 for £10. All money goes to Macmillan Cancer Support and the draw will take place at the festival.

Tickets available via www.wegottickets.com/bigmix now.

Larmer Tree announce stellar Comedy lineup

November 18, 2018April 27, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

Once again, Larmer Tree has unveiled some of the best and brightest comedy acts confirmed to perform in the ARC Comedy Club at this year's festival. Laughing yourself silly at the comedy on offer has always been an integral, not to mention hugely popular, part of the Larmer Tree experience – and that is certain to continue with this year’s line-up!

2013 will continue with a great line up over four nights. Julia Safe, Larmer Tree's Co-Director and comedy programmer said: "We are very excited to have such a fantastic line-up this year and have a unique mix of well-known names and impressive emerging talent."

Heading up the comedy line-up and headlining at The ARC Comedy Club on Thursday is the wonderful Dylan Moran. Perrier winner Moran is a talented comedic actor and writer, finding fame for his BAFTA winning Channel 4 sitcom Black Books, and a film career including the hit UK comedies Shaun of the Dead and Run, Fat Boy Run. One of the best stand-ups of his generation, he has been referred to as 'The Oscar Wilde of Comedy' – a reference to the unkempt wordsmith's interesting take on everything from “vegetarians, middle-aged decline, Van Morrison and Tesco."

Saturday night will see the Nation’s favourite impressionist Alistair McGowan return to his stand-up roots. Best known for The Big Impression on BBC 1, he started his stand-up career at London's Comedy Store in the early nineties and went on to provide voices for Spitting Image. McGowan’s public profile has increased in many ways since then with appearances in Bleak House and Skins, stints as an author, playwright and journalist and appearances on TV shows such as Have I Got News for You, Live At The Apollo and A Question of Sport.

The comedy talent is international this year with the third headliner Rich Hall, master of absurd irony, bringing his Hoedown show to Larmer Tree for the first time on Sunday night. A regular on shows such as QI and Have I Got News For You?, Hall’s Hoedown is a mixture of music, comedy, liquor and ‘spent dreams’ – Larmer Tree cannot wait to see him in action!

Topping off the headliners, performing on Friday night, are the fast paced sketch comedians Idiots of Ants. The four-piece formed in 2007 and one the highlights of their career was performing at the prestigious Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal alongside legends such as Bill Cosby, Jimmy Carr, Ross Noble and John Cleese (who even appeared in one of their sketches!) They are favourites on YouTube where their Facebook in Real Life and Wii Breakfast sketches are two of the most viewed comedy clips of all time.

Other performers to make sure you mark in the programme include Chortle 2013 Best Club Comic and Best Show Award winner Tony Law who brings his sense of the absurd to Larmer Tree on Friday, following his sell-out UK tour. Saturday night will see Doc Brown on stage. Rapper, actor, musician and authority on the hip hop scene, Doc Brown is a name to watch. He is hugely talented – he recently supported Ricky Gervais around the world, appeared on The Inbetweeners, Rev and Miranda and has worked with Mark Ronson, Lily Allen and the Kaiser Chiefs. His inspired show is a "seamless mix of truly inspired hip hop and stand up."

Rounding off the exiting comedy line-up for 2013 are: Ray Peacock, Patrick Monahan, The Noise Next Door, Jarlath Regan, Kieran Boyd, Mark Cooper-Jones, Paul Currie, Tommy Rowson and Matt Richardson

There is also cracking comedic entertainment for children at the Comedy Club 4 Kids – held at The Social during the day, Larmer Tree have the best comedians performing brilliant comedy without the rude bits! What more could you possibly ask for?!

As always, comedy is just one part of the varied and eclectic programme of performances at Larmer Tree. Headline performances from Van Morrison, Dexys, Seasick Steve, Imelda May and Bellowhead are confirmed, together with some enduring Larmer Tree favourites such as the carnival, workshops and events such as the ever popular Marc Kermode's Film Club, which has Time and Time Travel as the theme this year. Larmer Tree’s favourite film critic presents a selection of his much-loved films in The Playground, where he will introduce many of them, providing some fascinating insights into the films and their makers.

2013 Comedy Line-up to Include:

Dylan Moran, Alistair McGowan, Rich Hall’s Hoedown, Idiots of Ants, Tony Law, Doc Brown, Ray Peacock, Patrick Monahan, The Noise Next Door, Jarlath Regan, Kieran Boyd, Mark Cooper-Jones, Paul Currie, Tommy Rowson, Matt Richardson, Comedy Club 4 Kids.

2013 Music Line-up to Include:

Van Morrison, Dexys, Seasick Steve, Imelda May, Bellowhead, Richard Thompson Electric Trio, KT Tunstall, The Beat, Johnny Flynn & the Sussex Wit, The Bombay Royale, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Clinton Fearon, Sam Lee & Friends, Lau, Larkin Poe, Molotov Jukebox, Treetop Flyers, The Ben Waters Band, Blair Dunlop, Curtis Eller, Grupo Lokito, Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids, Megson, Moscow Drug Club, The Severed Limb, Marc O’Reilly, Keston Cobblers Club, Trevor Moss & Hannah Lou, By the Rivers, Three Cane Whale, The Kilcawley Family, Cowbell, Phil King We Used to Make Things, Nuala Honan, Thomas Ford, Ruth Theodore, Fran Smith, Maniere des Bohemiens, Disco’s Out (Murder’s In), Pachango, Tinderbox, The Woodland Creatures, Chris Woods, Pronghorn, Stone Donkey Pilots, Head North!, Flats & Sharps and Still Moving DJs.

Impressive literature lineup announed for Camp Bestival

November 18, 2018April 27, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

The past few years at Camp Bestival have seen increasingly impressive literary line-ups, so this year we are thrilled to be announcing our biggest and best literary programme yet across the weekend of August 1st-4th at Lulworth Castle in the Guardian Literary Institute, our cerebral hotspot that caters for erudite adventures of all kinds in partnership with our good friends at the Guardian. We will be presenting an inspirational selection of over 50 speakers, authors, poets, journalists, scientists, philosophers, kids’ writers and illustrators. So join us to explore ideas, philosophise, ponder, chat to the authors and speakers, and pick up a copy of a signed book.

Rob da Bank said: “Well here we go again with another bumper crop of literary folk for Camp Bestival 2013 – delving into the brains, minds and inner recesses of many of the country’s greatest authors, poets and speakers with another bountiful mix of the well-known nestled along unsung heroes of their craft. I live my life surrounded by music and noise so the Guardian Literary Institute is always a welcome break from the hubbub of the festival and I normally learn more in 30 minutes there than in the rest of my year. See you on the sofas!”

The Guardian Literary Institute is handily situated in the Kids Garden and promises a grown-up, relaxed hang-out (with sofas!) to soak up the eclectic mix of literary delights. Our ever popular ‘How To’ series welcomes national treasure Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards to chat about recently being crowned champion of ITVs diving contest, Splash, as well as his career as the UKs first Olympic ski jumper. Next up is the fabulous Jo Whiley, one of the best loved presenters in the UK, who’ll be talking about her impressive career spanning C4, Radio 1 and now Radio 2 in ‘How to Present’. The hugely respected human rights activist Trevor Phillips OBE to speak on the topic of‘How to Handle a Riot’, and the fabulous and lovely-in-real-life Charlie Brooks, who stars as super-bitch Janine in Eastenders, will be sharing her secrets of ‘How to Play a Baddie’. while the Guardian’s chief features writerSimon Hattenstone shares the trials and tribulations of ‘How to Interview’. Mercury Award nominated folk musician Sam Lee will reveal his musical secrets in ‘How to Collect Songs’ and journalist and writer Jules Evanspromises tools to achieve the Good Life, in ‘How Philosophy Can Improve Your Life’. Royal Observatory Astronomer, Marek Kakula, teaches us ‘How to Stargaze’ and wilderness experts Rob and Leo take us back to basics in ‘How to Be Wild’.

As the UK spoken word scene goes from strength to strength, we’ve been lucky enough to bag some of the top poets in the country to share their musing, led by our one and only chief wordsmith, Scroobius Pip. He has invited recent Ted Hughes Award winner Kate Tempest and the immensely talented Polarbear to join him on his Sunday session. Each of these artists is an impressive headliner in their own right, so this is a rare triple bill not to be missed.

The fantastic Josh Idehen will also be presenting poets who perform as part of London’s ever popular Poejazzi nights, including Paul Cree and James Massiah, whilst the brilliant Mr Gee and the Chill Pill Crew will be bringing the likes of Raymond Antrobus and Adam Kammerling. Plus we’ll be showcasing breaking young talent from poetry collectives Elephant, Early Doors and Roundhouse.

Leading the author line-up are two rather special one-off events. In ‘Bestselling Women’s Hour’ we will be welcoming four of the most-loved female novelists in the UK, Adele Parks, Lisa Jewell, Emily Barr and Anna Maxtedto join us for a chat on the sofa. In our second special event, Granta, who have recently revealed their Best of Young British Novelists, will be sending down three of these acclaimed authors for a live interview and reading. Come and say hello to Joanna Kavenna, Ben Markovits and Ross Raisin before they are propelled into the literary A List.

We’re also very happy to be welcoming back Camp Bestival stalwart and intrepid bon viveur Howard Marks, to share with us his brand new spoken word show; Scholar, Smuggler, Prisoner, Scribe. With trademark honesty and penetrating humour, Howard will look back at four extraordinary and action packed phases of his life.

For the insightful and inquisitive, the highly regarded RSA are presenting talks exploring ideas for an enlightened society. With their distinctive brand of intelligent and inspiring talks, they’ll be bringing us a trio of intrepid thinkers and adventurers who’ll take us “around the world in weighty ways” (see what we just did there?), sharing deep insights and lessons from international uprisings to the farthest reaches of human experience. Kevin Fong (the Brian Cox of Medicine!) will be taking us on an awe-inspiring journey around the human body and Bidisha (broadcaster and campaigner) explores the potential of political protest and activism.

Plus Andrew Simms will be calling in you to ‘Cancel the Apocalypse’ in a positive talk suggesting that the only thing holding us back from a gleaming future is our imagination for solutions. Or catch Angela Clarke unearthing the darkest secrets of the world of fashion in ‘Confessions of a Fashionista’.

If you have a little bit of a competitive streak, we’ve got four fighting chances for you to exert your expertise. Lily Vanilli, one of baking’s biggest rising stars, is donning her judging hat to crown the winner of the Camp Bestival Bake-Off – a chance for you to bring your handcrafted baked treats from home, for Lily to critique. The best baker will receive family tickets for Camp Bestival 2014. Or if you are a film, TV or music buff, we have three devilishly difficult quizzes, penned by Guardian brainiacs, John Harris, Sam Wollaston and Catherin Shoard, taking place each evening at dusk. Plus don’t miss the ‘Wake Up with the Guardian’ sessions each morning, where you can ease yourself into the day with an amusing live commentary of the papers and a roundup of the day ahead. Journalists Simon Hattenstone, Catherine Shoard and John Harris will be your hosts, joined by some familiar festival faces.

As well as this incredible plethora of literary delights in the Guardian Literary Institute, we will also be offering a full line-up of kid’s authors and illustrators, with something for all ages. These riveting readings and author events will take place in the heart of our Dingly Dell woodland enclave, the Story Den. Gather under the canopy of trees and settle down to listen to Sam Lloyd and her Monster Mates, Laura Dockrill’s tales of Darcy Burdock, Guy Bass’s stories of Stitch Head and check out Jonny Duddle’s pirate doodles. Don’t miss these authors and many more sharing their tales and talents with the young folk of Camp Bestival in this beautiful and unique setting.

Then at night, the woods will come alive with fire and dragons, and you will be able to hear a specially written story on headphones as you explore the trail in the trees. Or gather again in the Story Den, to watch the shadow puppets dance as the storytellers bring their legends to life.

And don’t forget that you’ll be able to buy books from all the authors appearing at the festival, as well as get them signed after the talks and readings. Plus Martin Brown, illustrator of Horrible Histories, will be popping in for a very special book signing to take place at the Big Top following the Barmy Britain show Sunday.

So whether you are looking for some inspirational enlightenment, imaginary escapism, jaw-dropping spoken word, brain-crunching quiz sessions or to immerse the little ones in make-believe, we have something for everyone on our Camp Bestival literary line-up.

Nas, Above & Beyond and more added to Balaton Sound

November 18, 2018April 27, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

New acts are joining Balaton Sound next to the already confirmed all-stars. Here come New York hip-hop legend, Nas, the three trance superheroes, Above & Beyond, one of the most colorful drum’n’bass icons, DJ Friction and many more. This will all take place between 11-14 July by Lake Balaton at Zamárdi, Hungary.

Hip-hop icon from New York, Nas, has several Grammy nominations and millions of albums sold. The colorful and charismatic rapper belongs to the most influential elite of the genre. He’s been performing for twenty years now and he is considered the best MC and songwriter of our time. Among his eleven studio albums, he has released some of the best hip-hop albums of all times, like ‘Illmatic’ or ‘It was Written’ that lead the charts for weeks in the US, as well as ‘Life Is Good’ released last year, that was in the race for the Best Rap Album of the year at the 2013 Grammy Awards.

The three trance superheroes, Above & Beyond, consists of Jono Grant, Tony McGuinness and Paavo Siljamäki. They joined forces in 2000 and since then the trio have made several significant albums. Their tracks are built in by the biggest trance kings sets, while their latest album, ‘Group Therapy’, made it into the best ten on DJ Mag’s Top 100 list. Their label, Anjunabeats, released its 10^th compilation album this year.

Friction is one of the most versatile and skilled DJs in the drum’n’bass world and his pioneer work and efforts were recognized by the most prestigious professional awards. He was selected into the group of the genre’s all-stars on the Drum & Bass Arena Awards in 2011.

Raffaele Manicone and Michele Colombo aka MiniCoolBoyz will definitely leave an impact by becoming the audience’s favorite with their minimal techno project, for the second time now at Balaton Sound. For their groundbreaking techno works, the Boyz use the genre’s Detroit roots and the latest results of the progressive tech house researches.

Modestep has a crushing dubstep reinforced with drums and guitar that does not leave a moment’s rest for our nerves and senses. Their tracks have reached impressive ranks on several British charts. The London-based quartet is the most ambitious and promising dubstep formation of our times.

Lead by Stuart McMillan and Orde Meikle, Slam, has been an important figure of the British techno scene for two decades now. Their fast and exciting sets do not only affect the party animals of the UK, but also the audience open for innovative techno productions. Now they will hit the stage at Balaton Sound!

Besides the international stars you could listen to some good Hungarian music, as Akkezdetphiai, Andro, Brains, Budai, Carbonfools, Chriss Ronson, Coyote, Dandy, Ganxsta Zolee és a Kartel, Hot X, Irie Maffia, Jay Lumen, Muzzaik, Naga & Beta, Nora Naughty & Rocha, Palotai & MC Fedora, Poli & Polarize, Sena, Sterbinszky, Vad Fruttik, Yvel & Tristan and many more!

T in the Park Day Splits announced + more acts added

November 18, 2018April 27, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

They played the very first T in the Park back in 1994 in their former incarnation Glass Onion, headlined in 2000 and 2005, and now the mighty Travis are set to return to Kinross to play T in the Park’s 20^th year celebrations in what is set to be a poignant homecoming show for the band and audience alike. Festival organisers DF Concerts and founding partner Tennent’s Lager have today added an array of top acts to the T in the Park bill, with the Glasgow four-piece plus Hurts, Johnny Marr, James Skelly, Jack Savoretti, Willy Mason, Foy Vance, Steve Mason, Milo Greene and DIIV joining the festival line-up over 12^th – 14^th July.

Festival organisers have also revealed today which days each act is playing, with the weekend of the year fast taking shape.

Travis are huge favourites with the T in the Park crowd, and their previous performances (including 2 showstopping headline sets) are widely regarded as some of the greatest moments of the festival’s 20 year history. After the top 10 success of their debut album Good Feeling, they achieved global success with the seminal, 9 x platinum-selling follow-up The Man Who, which hit the top of the UK album charts. Their much loved back catalogue is packed with classic hits, which have earned them BRIT Awards for Best Album (The Man Who), Best British Group (2000 and 2002) and Ivor Novellos for Best Contemporary Song (Why Does it Always Rain on Me?) and Best Songwriter (Fran Healy). After a temporary hiatus, they make their much anticipated return with their 7^th album later this year and are sure to receive a hero’s welcome when they make a long-awaited return to the festival in July.

Manchester Electro-pop duo Hurts were hailed by the BBC’s Sound of 2010 as ones to watch and since then have gone on to achieve global success. Theo Hutchcraft and Adam Anderson have released two critically acclaimed albums, Happiness (2010) and Exile (2013) packed with melancholic 1980s-inspired electro-pop gems, and were a huge hit with the crowd when they played T in the Park in 2010 and 2011, and are set to make a welcome return this July.

Recently crowned NME’s Godlike Genius, Smiths legend Johnny Marr is also heading to Kinross forT in the Park’s 20^th year celebrations. As one half of one of the most influential British songwriting partnerships of all time, he challenged pop conventions with The Smiths’ giant, euphoric tunes, and his 30 year career has seen him perform with groups including The Cribs and Modest Mouse. Revered by music fans and critics alike, he has been bestowed with Q Magazine’s lifetime achievement award, Mojo’s Classic Songwriter Award, the Ivor Novello Inspiration Award, and of course, Godlike Genius by NME.

On his first solo-adventure since The Coral’s hiatus, James Skelly has enlisted the help of The Intenders and is due to release debut album Love Undercover this summer. The Coral have been a big favourite of T in the Parkers in years gone by, and their frontman is sure to thrill fans when he reprises some of their greatest hits in Kinross this July, as well as showcasing his new material.

English-Italian singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti released his third album Before the Storm last year to a raft of rave reviews. His catchy guitar tunes are sure to go down a storm with the T in the Park crowd when he makes his debut in Kinross this July.

US singer-songwriter Willy Mason’s debut album Where the Humans Eat, which featured the classic Oxygen, won him major critical acclaim and a legion of fans. Having recently toured with T in the Park headliners Mumford & Sons, he released his third studio album Carry On in December and is set to play the festival’s 20^th year celebrations this July.

Northern Irish singer-songwriter Foy Vance made a big impression with his 2012 release The Melrose EP, and is set to follow it up with his new album Joy of Nothing this summer. Celebrated for his thought-provoking, powerful lyrics and spine-tingling vocals, he’s been hailed as one of the finest song-writers to emerge from Northern Ireland in recent years.

Fife-born Steve Mason, formerly of The Beta Band is now a solo artist in his own right, with his 2013 release Monkey Minds in the Devil's Time winning critical acclaim from the likes of The Guardian. It’s sure to be a special moment when he plays on home soil with his solo debut at T in the Park this July.

Also announced today are LA pop-outfit Milo Green, who bring their harmony-drenched, folk-tinged pop to Kinross. Describing their sound as cinematic-pop, they released their self-titled debut album earlier this year.

DIIV created instant vibrations in the blog-world with their impressionistic debut EP Sometime. With Zachary Cole Smith at the helm, the Brooklyn four-piece’s debut album Oshin blends classic kraut, Creation-records psychedelia, and late-80s Seattle influences to great effect.

Festival Director Geoff Ellis said: “Travis have given us some epic performances at T in the Park over the past 20 years, including at our very first outing back in 1994 and incredible headline sets in 2000 and in 2005. They’ve been there since day 1, and it really does feel like they are part of the fabric of T in the Park. We’re absolutely thrilled that they’ll be joining us for our 20^th year celebrations – it wouldn’t have felt quite right without them. They’re one of Scotland’s all-time greats with some massive tunes, and the sound of 85,000 voices singing along to their greatest hits in Kinross this July will be quite a poignant moment.

“Johnny Marr is a true legend and we’re honoured that he’ll be joining us for our 20^th year celebrations, alongside all the other great acts announced today. It’s going to be a great weekend.”

George Kyle, Head of Sponsorship at Tennent’s Lager, said: “T in the Park’s 20^th year celebrations are shaping up to be very special indeed. Throughout the festival’s 20 year history, Travis have been firm favourites with the crowd – it’ll be fantastic to see them back on home soil, and I’m sure they’ll be a real highlight of the festival weekend.”

Over 85,000 festival-goers per day will descend on Kinross over 12^th – 14^th July for the 20^th year ofT in the Park, which will feature performances by some of the hottest acts on the planet, including headliners Mumford & Sons, Rihanna and The Killers, plus Stereophonics, Calvin Harris, Kraftwerk, Frank Ocean, Snoop Dogg, Foals, alt-J, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Two Door Cinema Club, Phoenix, Jake Bugg, The Lumineers, Frightened Rabbit. My Bloody Valentine, Twin Atlantic, The View plus many more still to be announced.

T IN THE PARK 2013: ARTISTS ANNOUNCED SO FAR

Lineup additions to Secret Garden Party and more!

June 10, 2020April 25, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

The Secret Garden Party is YOUR party. It is a moment in the year when you can connect to your creative powers, explore your wildest fantasies and meet thousands of people who all want to meet you. It is a magical gathering that exists for only four days – away from cities and schedules, brands and boundaries – founded on participation and with the potential to change your life.

It is a festival of the arts… where everyone is the artist.

Come Play With Us This Summer

The Secret Garden Party is thrilled to present a cornucopia of indulgent fun and games this summer, which includes everything from naked trampolining to casting spells or debating with David Icke. Acknowledge those deeply-held superstitions and myths, break free, have fun together, abandon yourself to the Garden’s offering and emerge….. liberated.

Here is a random list of what this magical experience offers to those of a friendly heart and an open mind:-

Naked trampolining, mud wrestling, paint fights, giant parades, gifting ceremonies, dance off battles, badger dating, fire shows, Miss Behaves mess tent, theatre of dolls, human guess who, gentrified croquet, Miss Dance workshops, life drawing, aerial displays, death defying circus, spell casting, tax deductible theatre, gypsy disco, wood fired hot tubs and sauna, meditation with headspace, fine dining, black cat cabaret, poetry slam, debates and discussions, potion making, extreme science experiments, Pagoda, Yacht Club, ghost stories, apocalypse survival school, the kissing den, naked pool of wonder

MORE LIVE MUSIC & DANCING ADDED:

THE GREAT STAGE:

LITTLE COMETS – THE STAVES

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE STAGE:

JOHN NEWMAN – NINA NESBITT

TEMPLE OF BOOM:

CLEAN BANDIT

THE CROSSROADS:

SAM SMITH – THE RUEN BROTHERS

THE LIVING ROOM
Kick off your worries, abandon your shoes, get cosy, get up close and personal. The Living Room is the place for those extra special stripped-back sets, playing host to those magical and memorable moments when you experience something truly intimate and truly great. Every year a few acts from the Great Stage are invited to unplug and play too. Added to their already stunning line-up this year is:

JANET DEVLIN – THE STAVES – SAINT RAYMOND

HOUSE OF HATS – BEN SMITH BAND – SHANNON WARDROP

THE LAKE STAGE

Located in the centre of the lake with the Secret Installation is the sound system guaranteed to set the dance floor on fire… quite literally.

KRANKBROTHER – REAL NICE – HEAVENLY SOCIAL JUKEBOX

KITCH 'N' SYNC RECORDS – LOVE SICK with BLONDE AMBITION

SAMUEL POTTS – AMP + DECK (DJ set)

JAY KARIM & MICHAEL PALMER (Big In Japan) – ISSAC FERRY

THE DANCE-OFF

Dance battles, group games, big tunes, and party times…

Back to make you bump, grind, move, shake, laugh and cry your way through four days of relentless dance battles, group games and tomfoolery on a grandiose scale as we all, once again, grace the most entertaining boxing-ring since Stallone took on Mr T in Rocky III.

This summer we tip our hats toward ancient societies that have been shrouded in secrecy and silly handshakes for centuries. So don your ceremonial robes and get ready to see The Knights Templar throw down against Opus Dei, Mensa backflip over The Freemasons and Girl Guides shoot Ping-Pong balls at Scouts.

FRIDAY AFTER-HOURS SESSION: THE ITCHY & SKRATCHY SHOW FEATURING…

VENT – MC MASH CLAN – ITCHY & SKRATCHY DJS – MOULDY SOUL – HIDDEN RIDDEM

SATURDAY AFTER-HOURS SESSION: THE GHETTO FUNK ALLSTARS FEATURING…

JFB – BSIDE – RUSS CUBAN – TOO MANY TS – STREETWISE

HOSTED BY PROFIT: RESIDENT DANCE-OFF DJS – PYTHAGORAS – KB & AIRAYD – CAT CAT CAT – FRUITY DE LA MERE – FREAKY DIMITRI – PRAWN T CRACKER

PLUS DANCE-OFF FRIENDS: THE ASBO DISCO – SKELLY MAN – T-SEX – FRENIC – 7 DEADLY – BREAKS (4-DECK BREAKS MIX WITH KB & AIRAYD)

PRESENTED BY YOUR HOSTS

MC GOBBLEJOB, MR GOATIVATOR & FAT MOUSE

That¹s right Gardeners: It¹s time for the Illuminati Party (but don¹t you dare tell anyone)

ODDBALL DANCEHALL

Continental Drifts and The World’s Tallest DJ bring you one of the strongest ever line-ups of Antique Beats; a smorgasbord of electro blues, the sounds of the Delta mashed up and shaken down. Electro Swing, Brass Bands reworked,Mississippi Big Breaks; an out-and-out Gypsy Soundclash. Get your footwork fancy with all-day dance styles and teaching from Rhumba to Russia – plus aerial assault, death-defying circus and cabaret creations all day and ALL OF THE NIGHT!

FEAST OF FOOLS

"If you obey all the rules you miss all the fun." – Katharine Hepburn

This summer it’s The Right Royal Knees-Up Tour, celebrating 25 years of dance parties.

T’was 25 years ago this summer when we waited by our phones for the word…

That a party was gonna happen… sometime… somewhere… tonight…with…

THE OLD SCHOOL BRIGHTON BEACH MASSIVE – DJ’S FROM DR.ATOMIC – SLACK & POSITIVE SOUNDS INCL SIMON ATKINSON – FOOLISH FELIX, DIZZY D – JUSTIN ROBERTSON of the legendary LIONROCK – RUSS CUBAN from the CUBAN BROTHERS NOEL WATSON of DELERIUM & TRIP.

LATE NIGHT

When the sun sinks and the shadows grow long, the glitter sparks, the beat goes on. Magic Hour in the garden. There are so many late night places to play this year. Running later than late we have The Drop, The Oddball Dancehall – whose exterior will be festooned in LED’s, the Badger Amphitheatre and Main Stage, the Temple of Boom, plus the re-established late night bar at The Forum – not to mention Small World and the Village Hall.

FOOD:

SOUL FIRE FINE DINING RESTAURANT
The infamous and unprecedented Garden restaurant returns this year, celebrating its fifth anniversary with some extra special chefs. Fine dining in the middle of a field with your loved ones. Booking for Sunday Roast and à La Carte.

FOOD STALLS

Expect a huge array of award-winning stalls with all dietary needs catered for – gluten, wheat, dairy intolerant; vegetarian, vegan and halal; meat and fish. Sample the Ghurkhas’ own Nepalese cauliflower curry or beef khursani. There are delicious tagines, roast dinners, handmade chocolate and Guinness ice cream, the Flaming Cactus’ award-winning tamales, handmade pies, Texan BBQs, stone-oven flatbreads or game sausages and much much more. For bookings: http://store.secretproductions.net/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=17_5

SANCTUARY

In 2013 the Secret Sanctuary will once again spread its love, calming energy and healing vibrations with the Gardeners. This summer it will play host to the Sui-shi lounge, apothecary bar, sundown yoga, morning meditation, swimming, acupuncture, Balinese day beds, reflexology, Acro yoga, Bamboo lanterns, lakeside cocktails, reiki, bugbar soundsystem, solar showers, boating, twilight tunes and massage for the ultimate journey of relaxation, with their team of highly qualified therapists, guaranteeing to ease your body, mind and soul.

Explore touch with the myriad of wonderful healers who are on hand to rub away any aches and pains. If you are unsure how the Sanctuary can help then you can ask the experts. Their team of helpful receptionists will be on hand to help explain all the healing techniques on offer, take bookings and ensure that you are booked in with the right person to suit. The healers can bring you up, bring you down, rejuvenate your body and mind and soothe your soul. The demand is always really high for treatments as exhausted gardeners need re-charging, so please don’t leave it until Sunday to book in.

Reading and Leeds Festival add more names to the lineup

November 18, 2018April 25, 2013 by Summer Festival Guide

With even more artists yet to be announced across the NME/Radio 1, BBC Radio 1 Dance, Lock Up/Rock, Festival Republic, BBC Radio 1Xtra Alternative and BBC Introducing Stages, the line-up just keeps getting bigger and better for 2013!

NEW NAMES ADDED TO THE MAIN STAGE

Already announced on the Main Stage are UK festival exclusive headliners Green Day, Eminem, and Biffy Clyro, plus UK festival exclusive performances from Fall Out Boy, System Of A Down andDeftones. Nine Inch Nails will return to Reading & Leeds for the first time since 2007 to perform a 2013 UK exclusive show.

Also playing the Main Stage are legends of UK drum and bass, Chase and Status, bringing a world-class live show to Reading & Leeds and Frank Turner, who returns to play the Festivals which “hold a special place in his heart” for the seventh consecutive year; his set will be a triumphant showstopper.

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

The Main Stage will welcome the unique musical stylings of quintessentially British band Skindred, whose blend of heavy metal, dub, reggae and drum ‘n’ bass, or ‘ragga metal’, has landed them legions of fans and numerous awards.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

British punkrock band Lower Than Atlantis will be returning to the Festivals on the Main Stage after an incredible set on the Festival Republic Stage last year. Expect to hear the crowd singing along to hits from their entire catalogue, including current album ‘Changing Tune’.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Joining the line-up are New York punk band We Are The In Crowd, currently touring the UK and Europe with their latest album ‘Best Intentions’, as well as Southampton based five-piece Bury Tomorrow who will be offering their unique blend of melodic metalcore and bringing songs from their anticipated second album ‘The Union of Crowns’.

NME/RADIO 1 STAGE LINE-UP EXPANDS

The NME/Radio 1 Stage gets even hotter with new names joining headliners Skrillex, Alt-J and Phoenix, plus others already announced including Jake Bugg, Imagine Dragons, Major Lazer,A$AP Rocky and Haim.

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Joining the line-up will be Scottish five-piece Frightened Rabbit, armed with songs from their critically acclaimed Top 10 album ‘Pedestrian Verse’, the band’s arena-rock arrangements promise a thrilling live show. Hedonistic punks FIDLAR, whose melodic twists and turns have earned them plaudits from critics on both sides of the Atlantic also take to the stage.

Tipped by the likes of Radio 1 and MTV, Dublin-based Kodaline will be making their Reading & Leeds debut. The alternative rock quartet will be playing the best from their new album ‘In A Perfect World’ and more.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

North London band Tribes are revered as breathing life back into guitar music. The band’s second album ‘Wish To Scream’ is out in May, preceded by the single ‘Dancehall’ on 20th May, which follows the instant anthem of first single ‘How The Other Half Live’. Released just 11 months after their well-received debut album ‘Baby’, the Festival crowds will see them flying the flag for British Indie.

Hotly tipped as ones to watch on the 'BBC Sound of 2013’ list, experimental electronic duo AlunaGeorge will be proving exactly why they’ve been enjoying chart success this year, with their unique brand of sensual vocals and pop sensibilities.

BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE ADDS A WHOLE HOST OF ARTISTS

Headliners Sub Focus Live, Magnetic Man and Knife Party, plusBaauer and Iggy Azalea, will be joined by a raft of amazing artists on the newly expanded three day BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage.

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

British electro-pop comes courtesy of Fenech-Soler, signed to Warner Records and championed by Radio 1’s Annie Mac and Greg James, the four-piece have received attention from a legion of music bloggers. They will be joined on the line-up by Radio 1 DJ and drum‘n’bass multi-award winner Friction, for the heaviest bass on the Dance Stage. Also confirmed are London based collective Clean Bandit who work with a variety of vocalists to create their eccentric brand of electronica.

London electronic outfit Is Tropical rose to success after the release of their ‘Native To’ album, which also won ‘Best Animation Video’ and ‘Best Indie Rock Video’ at the UK Music Video Awards. Also joining will be Lancaster duo Bondax with their blend of garage-inspired electronica championed by the likes of Annie Mac and gaining increasing popularity in the blogosphere and LA polymath Robert DeLong, whose unique mash-up of indie and electronica has earned him nominations as a 2013 ‘Artist to Watch’ for MTV US, Billboard and Vibe Magazine.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Trendsetting DJ, Fool's Gold label head and turntablist A-Trak graces the Dance Stage with a wealth of critical acclaim behind him. Performing at the Grammy’s, sharing a Billboard cover with Diplo and Skrillex and winning a ‘DMC World DJ Championship’ when he was just 15, his performance is sure to be an unforgettable one. Also added is one of the hottest commodities in dance music right now, dubstep heavyweight, Flux Pavillion.

Bristol DJ Redlight has been a staple in club culture for many years, mixing and taking on bass music from dubstep to drum ‘n’ bass and even grime, and it is with pleasure that he joins the Dance Stage this year. Searching out talent from across the hemisphere, Sydney-based duo Jagwar Ma will be acclimatising to the British festival season and warming up the crowds in the Dance Stage. Fresh from supporting The xx, and headlining the NME Awards show, they are gearing up to bring their brand of psychedelic electronica and sunshine bass lines to festival goers.

Also confirmed is rockabilly inspired Willy Moon, hailing from New Zealand, now based in London, Moon promises a mix of hip-hop and 50’s inspired dance music, plus there will be fantasy-laden electro from the former Mellowdrone frontman Big Black Delta and mysterious soulful R ‘n’ B from Night Works.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Confirmed for this day is LA Moombahton Dillon Francis fusing the genres of reggaeton, moombahton and house music for a truly thrilling bass explosion, fresh from collaborating with Major Lazer, a slew of sell out shows and riotous praise, he will be offering up the best of his distinctive basslines and wobbles. 90’s garage and pop inspired electronica comes courtesy of futuristic pop princess Charli XCX.

Joining them will be drum‘n’bass titans Fred V & Grafix as they gear up for a set that promises bone thudding bass and the best in contemporary and classic drum ‘n’ bass, plus high-octane dance music from Jacob Plant ft. Majestic.

THE LINE-UP FOR THE LOCK UP STAGE GROWS

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

The Lock Up Stage this year welcomes Alkaline Trio as headliners for this day. The renowned Illinois punk band will be playing the best of their music, from the punk beginnings of their first albums to the more pop-punk offerings seen on their most recent album ‘My Shame Is True’. Promising to excite their legions of fans, expect an electrifying atmosphere and more than a little bit of moshing.

Joining the Stage will be Australian punk rock/psychobilly band The Living End and Californian metaphoric rock group RX Bandits. For a ferocious dose of post hardcore stylings, catch legendary special guests, New York four-piece Quicksand, one of the most influential bands of their genre in the early to mid-90’s.

Also on the bill are Exeter based rock n rollers The Computers who are about to embark on their highly anticipated UK tour, warming up for our festival crowd!

New York punk rockers Cerebral Ballzy return to Reading & Leeds Festivals after an amazing set on the Festival Republic Stage in 2011; the 80’s punk-inspired skater boys are sure to deliver a memorable live show for the Lock Up crowds.

READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH

Joining Tomahawk on this day will be legendary New York hardcore band Sick Of It All with a punk offering, and for a heavy dose of volume, Reading & Leeds favourites, LA hardcore punk band The Bronx will be on hand. Legendary British ska/punk band King Prawn are back after a 10 year hiatus. The band will bring their unique blend of reggae and hardcore to the Festivals for an unforgettable show.

FIRST NAMES FOR THE NEW ROCK STAGE ANNOUNCED

With the expanded Dance line-up covering three whole days, Reading & Leeds are adding a Rock Stage day to each site, with the first names just announced.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Enter Shikari unveil..Shikari Sound System. At this year's Reading & Leeds Festivals, Shikari Sound System will make its world debut headlining the Rock Stage.

Shikari Sound System is the electronic alter-ego of the British band Enter Shikari, famous for blurring the lines between musical genres across three (thus far) UK chart Top 5 albums since they hit the wider public consciousness in 2006. Having DJ’d and produced in various side projects over the years they finally decided to fully elope with live dance music, and so was born the Shikari Sound System.

For further explanation, let's hear it from the horse's mouth: "Expect re-worked Enter Shikari tracks along with classic remixes and new surprises. Expect eerie live electronics and tent-peg-dislodging baselines. Expect a tour through many dance tempos and electronic genres that have been a constant inspiration to our band's sound. Combining both live instruments and percussion with dub-plate wizardry, this is one for the skankers, the steppers, the movers and the shakers."

Enter Shikari have a deep history with the Reading & Leeds Festivals – attending as teenagers, and having played the festival five times in the past seven years – and so embraced the opportunity to return once again, albeit in 'disguise'. The band's latest single, a 1min16sec blast of a track, has this week been added to the BBC Radio 1 playlist.

Described as "one of the best British bands of the last decade" by Zane Lowe, Welsh hardcore band Funeral For A Friend will also be playing the Rock Stage this year. The award-winning band are veterans of rock performances, playing alongside Guns N’ Roses, supporting Linkin Park and countless others for over a decade. Hardcore Punk band Gallows return to Reading & Leeds for their seventh consecutive year, bringing their electric live show and guaranteed carnage to the Rock Stage, plus Northern Irish band And So I Watch You From Afar will be playing following on from their recently sold out UK shows and release of their critically acclaimed album.

Japanese metalcore band Crossfaith will be bringing their blend of industrial metal and electronica from Osaka to Reading & Leeds’ very own Rock Stage, as well as alternative rockers Arcane Roots, the three-piece from Surrey are influenced by progressive, experimental and pop-tinged rock which can be heard in their music. For a dose of hard rock, don’t miss British four-piece Heaven’s Basement who have gone from strength to strength since they formed over four years ago and have played alongside the likes of Papa Roach and Black Stone Cherry.

FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE WELCOMES NEW ADDITIONS

The Festival Republic Stage showcases the hottest upcoming bands as well as established names, with the first bands for 2013 already confirmed including The Strypes, The 1975, Temples and Swim Deep, Reading & Leeds can now announce many more artists.

READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH

Crystal Fighters take to the headline position with their distinctive mix of acoustic guitar and percussive electronica, as the celebrated British/Spanish dance outfit gear up to release their new album ‘Cave Rave’, with current single ‘You & I’ featured as Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record this week.

Glasgow's Chvrches come fresh from a stellar run at SXSW that saw them collect the festival's inauguaral Grulke Prize for ‘Best International Newcomers’. The prize is just the latest in an ever-increasing list of plaudits for a band championed by Pitchfork and NME, and who came fifth in the BBC ‘Sound of 2013’. Their accessible yet ambitious synth angles, pitched somewhere between Robyn and The Knife, mean Chvrches are equally at home atop the Hypemachine blog chart as supporting Depeche Mode in European arenas.

US alternative rock outfit Surfer Blood join the line-up, the band have been gaining momentum since their appearance on ‘Late Night With Jimmy Fallon’ back in January. Kate Nash is back, after a hiatus, with her new punk direction. Her musical stylings have taken a shift in direction this year with the release of her feminist punk-influenced album ‘Girl Talk’ and recent sold out tour. Also confirmed is soulful Scandinavian electronica courtesy of Karen Marie Ørsted, or MØ. Her sultry vocals have been likened to Grimes and Lou Rhodes and have made her a critics’ favourite.

New York duo MS MR are set to capitalize on their ‘No. 1 on Hype Machine’ status and are tipped to be the first superstars of Chill Wave. This boy/girl duo's singles caused a huge buzz on all the coolest music blogs last year and their debut album ‘Secondhand Rapture’ is set for release in May.

For a dose of Canadian indie, Half Moon Run will be performing for the first time at the festival, after a period opening for Mumford and Sons, the band has been slowly creeping on the radar of Indie fans. The stage also sees talent from Mancunian newcomer Findlay, whose stylish mix of glam-blues vocals and pop production have put her firmly on the critics’ radar this year and Oxford four-piece MMX, who have been hotly tipped after their debut release ‘Cold World’ last year, will be first on.

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Headlining the Festival Republic stage this year is one of Britain's most enigmatic bands, British Sea Power. It's been 10 years since their debut album; expect to hear old favourites as well as tracks from recently released masterpiece ‘Machineries of Joy’. Their sweeping, epic, angular guitar pop has established British Sea Power as a classic alternative act and this headline set will be a euphoric affair.

Post-folk funk groover Lucy Rose made her name as a vocalist in Bombay Bicycle Club before branching out on her own. The singer-songwriter from Warwickshire will be returning to the Festivals after a show-stopping full band set last year and now in receipt of a critically acclaimed debut album ‘Like I Used To’, Lucy will bring her haunting vocal talents to the Festival Republic Stage.

Reading & Leeds are thrilled to announce Tim Burgess, it’s been 10 years since the lead singer of The Charlatans released a solo album, and his blend of Northern soul and Americana will be one of many highlights across the weekend. The Charlatans previously headlined Reading & Leeds in 1999, the first year that Leeds Festival ever took place.

Tampa, Florida trio Merchandise have transcended the punk and hardcore scene and now carry a more thrilling post-punk menace taking their cue from early 90's alternative acts such as Dinosaur JR and the Jesus and Mary Chain. Fuzzy four-piece London based psychedelic band Splashh have been steadily building momentum since last year with rave reviews from The Guardian, NME and a slew of underground blogs. Also on the line-up is punky blues-rock from Drenge, a duo from the Peak District who serve up catchy percussive guitar songs, NY punk garage rockers SKATERS with their unique pop-punk offerings and Belgian pop/rock band Balthazar who have received international acclaim after winning ‘Best Album’ at the Music Industry awards last year with ‘Rats’.

Also added are British folk/rock band To Kill A King who will be playing their unique brand of folk melodies and melancholic indie.

READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD

Headlining the Festival Republic Stage this day are five-piece Indie rockers Spector who have enjoyed rave reviews from the likes of NME, The Guardian and Radio 1’s Huw Stephens, and have gone on to achieve mammoth musical success since their performance at the Reading & Leeds BBC Introducing Stage back in 2011. They return to top the Festival Republic Stage bill with their synth laden guitar riffs and contagious tracks including ‘Chevy Thunder’ for fans to sing-along to.

Ferocious English/American rock band Pure Love, featuring former Gallows frontman Frank Carter and ex-The Hope Conspiracy guitarist Jim Carroll, will perform and expect guitar shredding from UK garage rock The Jim Jones Revue, as they play their distorted blend of bluesy rock. Responsible for one of the year’s most talked-about guitar albums, Parquet Courts will be joining the Festival Republic Stage. The New York punk rockers are hailed for their witty brand of super sharp lyrics and fresh indie sonics and will be bringing the energy to Reading & Leeds this summer.

Excitingly, punk rock garage outfit California X will be making their debut UK performance at the Festivals, English synth-pop outfit Chapel Club return with their distinctive moody indie electronica and US indie electronica duo twenty one pilots join the growing bill. The Family Rain's full on live shows are high octane affairs and these three siblings’ unique brand of hip-hop inspired, dirty blues infused rock 'n' roll has marked them out a band to watch in 2013.