ALSO Festival, “where ideas run wild,” returns for another year in its Compton Verney, Warwickshire setting from 12 to 14 July for its next edition: ALSO24. Its first line-up announcement sees comedy from Sara Pascoe and This Is Going To Hurt’s Adam Kay, alongside its wider programme of speakers, performances and experiences.
Also featuring on the comedy line-up is Robin Ince and spoken word from poet and novelist Salena Godden, while Marcel Lucont presents his cult hit Cabaret Fantastique in the theatre’s newly redesigned cabaret-style dining tent. Rob Deering also features, bringing a live music-based comedy pop quiz, putting some of the festival’s comedians on the spot.
The festival combines ideas, music and comedy alongside adventures in food, nature and wellness. Announcing the line-up, ALSO Festival’s Founder and Artistic Director, Helen Bagnall described the difficulties of curating a festival in the current climate within the industry. “This year, in one of the most challenging for us independent festivals, we are determined to create a truly memorable weekend in our Capability Brown landscaped site.”
In the Ideas area of the festival, psychotherapist Philippa Perry makes her only UK festival appearance this summer, featuring alongside writer Natalie Haynes who re-introduces us to the stories of Greek Goddesses, while banker–turned–hip-hop journalist Nels Abbey unpicks how Hip Hop artists rewrote the rules of business. Stornoway, Jessica Winder and The Fontanas form part of the festival’s music offering.
The festival also offers a wellness programme, including yoga, wild swimming and sound baths, a variety of bookable experiences, and curated food offerings from award-winning chef James Whetlor and local providers. Families will be able to enjoy activities for all ages with den building, a mini big safari, a rocket workshop, raft building, messy play, woodland activities and a dedicated under-4s play space all featuring at the festival.
