Bearded Theory returns to its idyllic homeland of Catton Park, Derbyshire on the 21-25th May for yet another year of inspirational, community driven, grassroots festivities. The festival borders three counties of West Midlands, South Derbyshire and Staffordshire and is only two hours away for 50% of the UK’s population; its prime location, beautiful site and wonderful atmosphere mean there’s truly no better place to spend your bank holiday.
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This year’s enthralling and eclectic headline offerings consists of punk rock pioneer IGGY POP, celebrated legendary band MANIC STREET PREACHERS, English rock institution THE SISTERS OF MERCY, electronic innovators LEFTFIELD, post-punk quartet YARD ACT, unique Irish trailblazers THE MARY WALLOPERS, Northern Irish vibrant virtuosos ASH, pop-country phenomenon CMAT, devilishly bass heavy duo NOVA TWINS and genre-spanning FAT DOG.
Joining the impressive lineup is a selection of the hottest acts of the year, including alt-country grungers DIVORCE, indie-electro LIME GARDEN, lo-fi psychedelic rockers THE LOVELY EGGS, dreamy folk composer BESS ATWELL, post-hardcore quad DREAM STATE, electro-punk CLT DRP, introspective indie rock band SLANEY BAY, unique fusion activists ASIAN DUB FOUNDATION and so many more.
Bearded Theory’s wondrously compact site punches above its weight with eight unique stages and areas full of music, dancing and good times. While the main Pallet and Meadow stages showcase some of the biggest sets throughout the weekend, the magical Woodland stage provides an intimate and idyllic setting for folkier sounds and rock sets alike.
Last year saw the launch of a brand new dance-oriented area, CODA. The tent was welcomed with open arms by attendees, with class acts like Orbital (DJ Set), Leeroy Thornhill (ex-The Prodigy), Roni Size, 808 State, Utah Saints, The Orb and many more. The festival’s beloved giant forest head Big Ed exists as a truly unique to Bearded Theory experience, housing a DJ booth, leading attendees on a journey of musical euphoria throughout the day and into the early hours. Elsewhere, Convoy Cabaret, Maui Waui, Something Else Tea Tent and The Magic Teapot all provide individually quirky and delightful musical experiences and cosy havens all weekend.
Bearded Theory firmly believes that an education shouldn’t only exist within the boundaries of a traditional indoor space. For parents attending with children and teenagers, the festival is home to the UK’s first on site Festival School, which resides in the award-winning Children’s Area. The school requires official enrollment and permission from the children’s respective schools, runs from 9am-3pm for years Reception through till Year 10 on the Friday of the festival, and provides a huge itinerary of educational classes. Previous years have featured Maths (how to budget a music festival), PE classes by Derby County FC and Mr Motivator, Design & Technology (giving students the opportunity to create their own souvenir to take home!), Yoga, Parkour, Puppet Making, DJ workshops, Circus Skills & Acrobalance, English, Mindfulness, Healthy Eating and First Aid. We have even had BSL classes.
For those who seek additional entertainment outside of the musician offerings, the Earth Area at the festival provides the perfect opportunity to take a breath and explore the eco-conscious, crafty delights on offer at Bearded Theory festival. There’s a vast selection of hands-on activities to indulge in, from wooden pipe whittling, basket making, vinyl upcycling and lego, to thought-provoking discussions, poetry workshops, massages and tarot reading.
Whilst this area acts as a centralised hub for all your craft and healing desires, attendees are also treated to an assortment of other entertainment around the arena, whether that be singing their hearts out at Karaoke while sampling the vast selection of craft beer and cask ales at the Catton Fiddle on site pub, competing for best dressed at the annual themed costume party, dancing under canopied fairy lights in the Woodland’s after hours silent disco or under the stars with Big Ed, or winding down at the festival’s closer, the Meadow Movies outdoor cinema experience. The possibilities are endless.
If you are looking for a place to stay for Bearded Theory Festival, then check out our interactive accommodation map below. Just add in the dates you want to stay and venue and you will be able to see what’s available nearby!
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