Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, In The Woods (ITW) is a festival unlike any other and widely acknowledged as THE event for discovering new artists. What started as a party for friends of the band Laurel Collective has become a much-loved annual pilgrimage for over 1,000 music devotees, surrounded by a like-minded community in the midst of the mystical English woodland.
So confident in their curation, the organisers (headed up by winner of this year’s Brit Award for Best Producer Charlie Andrew) do not announce the line-up until shortly before the event takes place. “Generally festival organisers don’t have the time or means to watch every artist prior to making a booking,” explains Andrew, “But that’s precisely what we do with ITW. And that’s why we consistently find the best new artists before anyone else.“ With tickets always selling out in advance, it would seem festival-goers agree. Previous acts booked well before breakthrough include Alt-J, Lianne La Havas, Young Fathers, Slaves, Years and Years, Kate Tempest and Jack Garratt.
The acts play over two intimate stages under the beautifully lit forest canopy with intriguing art installations to be found along the way. Art Director Anna Mojab has given the 2016 ITW festival a birthday party theme to celebrate its 10th Anniversary, so attendees can expect a heightened sense of occasion at this year’s event. Plus, locally-sourced food and ale, a silent disco and giant midnight bonfire keep things going until sunrise. The only question is, which future favourite artist will ITW help you discover this year?
Listen to the ITW playlist here | Official Website | Ticket Information | Facebook | Twitter