Original ‘Brit girl’ Sandie Shaw is the latest in a long line of top international acts to support Jools Holland for his opener at Larmer Tree Festival. Sandie is all set to take up the mantle previously bestowed upon the likes of Lulu, Alison Moyet, and Mark Almond. Described by many as the barefoot pop princess, Sandie Shaw boasts a bevy of hits recognised globally. She was the first UK act to win the Eurovision Song Contest in 1967 with the song Puppet on a String and last year Dagenham-born Sandie sang the title track to the British hit and feel-good film Made In Dagenham.
As well as Jools Holland there are a few other familiar faces confirmed for the festivities this year: Larmer Tree Festival are pleased to welcome back folk’s most celebrated big band ensemble – Bellowhead. Fresh off tour promoting their latest album ‘Hedonism’ and revelling from their recent four nominations for BBC Folk awards, including Best Live Act, Best Group and Best Album; Bellowhead will bring their combination of jazz and funk mixed in with marching band brass enthusiasm that culminates in a unique and high octane reworking of British folk. Founding members Jon Boden and John Spiers will also be performing their award winning mix of traditional music and stories in the ‘punky English folk’ style.
Also returning to the lush Larmer Tree gardens are folk stalwarts, Show of Hands. After nearly two decades at the forefront of acoustic roots music, these demi-Gods are bringing their insightful, passionate and ‘life affirming’ music back to Larmer where they are always received with gusto.
Mark Kermode will be returning with his highly successful Film Club where the UK’s most opinionated and outspoken movie critic gets to curate an intimate visual event at his favourite festival. Each evening from Thursday to Sunday, double bills of some of Mark’s all time favourite films will be screened.
Other acts confirmed for the bill this year include; punk, ska and Balkan folk outfit Penny Black Remedy, the modern blues of C W Stoneking, Mark Kermode’s skiffle band The Dodge Brothers, the traditional folk and ‘ramshackle pop’ of Skinny Lister, Cabaret-style acoustica and Gypsy swing from the four-piece of Moscow Drug Club along with, Boppin’B, My First Tooth, Polly and the Billets Doux, Rosie Doonan, ahab, The Mopes and Disco’s Out (Murder’s In).
Larmer Tree is an innovative festival that delivers high quality with a buzzing atmosphere and eccentric antics. Experts in their field and with an event steeped in tradition, Larmer Tree Festival has over 80 acts showcased on six stages, 150 free workshops, award winning international comedians, quirky and unique street theatre, an onsite night club and late night jam sessions; all located in one of the most beautiful festival sites in the country.
Watch this space for upcoming announcements on headliners and new areas.
Tickets are now on sale with options ranging from individual day tickets, 3-day, 4-day or a full 5-day option, all with camping and car parking included. For more information on tickets please visit the website: http://www.larmertreefestival.co.uk/tickets.html