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WOMAD announced the day splits for the festival

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Kicking off the festival on Thursday night will be Sicily-born reggae superstar Alborosie [Italy], who is sure to get the party started. Friday will feature the long-awaited WOMAD debut of the progressive hip-hop trio Young Fathers [UK] and the return of WOMAD favorites Amadou & Mariam [Mali], known for their signature swinging blues. On Saturday, WOMAD welcomes electronic trailblazer and dance icon Alison Goldfrapp [UK], along with punk-rock showstoppers Gogol Bordello [USA], who still know how to ignite a musical riot. Audiences will be in for a treat on Sunday with one of southern Africa’s greatest hip hop heroes, Sampa The Great [Zambia], bringing her unique blend of electronica, gospel, neo-soul, jazz, and Zamrock for the first time. Closing out the festival will be returning favorite and musical powerhouse Baaba Maal [Senegal], whose commanding vocals and timeless body of work have established him as a leading figure in Senegalese music.

WOMAD has also recently announced more exciting new names for this year.

Experience the soul, jazz, and funk rhythms of Tank & the Bangas from New Orleans, the heartbreaking melodies from the London Bulgarian Choir, and the captivating Zimbabwean guitar tunes of Gonora Sounds. Enjoy Enji’s jazz-meets-bossa nova style, the rhythmic flair of Spanish ensemble Tiempo Al Tiempo, and the unique blend of accordion and oud from Tamsin Elliott and Tarek Elazhary.

The WOMAD app is releasing on July 10th, so be sure to download it to plan your perfect festival experience. Features include My Favourites, allowing choices from musicians to spoken word artists, as well as explosions in the World of Physics, art, and much more.

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Events

Classic Ibiza Orchestra Coming to Reading (June 14th)

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For those unfamiliar with Classic Ibiza, let us introduce you to this unique experience. Classic Ibiza is an open-air celebration of White Isle-inspired house music, reimagined by a 32-piece orchestra, headline DJs, and live vocalists. Touring some of the UK’s most stunning stately homes, this isn’t just house music – this is stately house music.

What to Expect:

Promising a night of wholesome euphoria, Classic Ibiza brings together a diverse crowd of partygoers, all contributing to a feel-good atmosphere. Designed for people of all ages, it’s an opportunity for generations to come together and enjoy iconic music in a breathtaking location.

The Evening Unfolds:

The general rule is that the BPM goes up as the sun goes down. The evening begins with the vibe of an Ibizan chill-out bar, gradually building up to an alfresco nightclub. The headline act features the 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra (USO), known for their collaborations with dance music legends like Groove Armada, Robert Miles, and Nightmares On Wax.

Your Experience:

On arrival, you and your loved ones can choose from dedicated picnic squares, marked out across the site. This will be your private space to spread out, set up, and boogie until you’re ready to hit the dance circle. Your spot can be as elaborate as you’d like; bring tables, chairs, picnics, inflatables – whatever floats your boat! You can bring your own food and drink (with some alcohol limits) or visit the bar and street food vendors to keep you fuelled for the party.

Highlights:

  • White Isle-inspired house music reinvented by a 32-piece orchestra, headline DJs, and live vocalists
  • Touring stunning stately home venues
  • Open-air concert with gates opening around 5:30 pm (venue dependent)
  • BYO food & drink allowances
  • Free car parking
  • Premium toilet facilities
  • Family-friendly, feel-good atmosphere

If you have the chance to experience this amazing orchestra, don’t miss it!
Catch the Classic Ibiza Orchestra at Reading’s Palmer Park on June 14th. Tickets are still available!

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Readipop returns to town for seveth anniversary

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In 2016, the musical philanthropy venture Readipop made its eagerly awaited comeback to Christchurch Meadows in Caversham, Reading. From Friday, July 12th to Sunday, July 14th, 2024, this festival will ignite three dynamic days of music, uniting global talents, local acts, and community bands—all nurtured weekly by the Readipop charity.

Check out the thrilling roster for Readipop Festival 2024:

Leading the pack are Northern Irish indie rockers Ash, the legendary drum and bass duo Fabio & Grooverider, and Britpop trailblazers Echobelly. They’re flanked by an eclectic mix of emerging and seasoned artists: technopop punk rockers Republica, the electrifying festival mainstays Dub Pistols, Welsh rap sensation Goldie Lookin’ Chain (with a special legends set), indie-dance pioneers A Certain Ratio from Manchester, Dutch favorites Pip Blom, and 1980s Reading punk ensemble International Resque, giving their final performance.

Here’s the schedule breakdown:

Friday, July 12th (5-11pm): Featuring Fabio & Grooverider, Dub Pistols, The Wise Bloods, Reading Community Gospel Choir, Marble Sun, Leopard Boy, Martha And The Fairy, Grace Pounds, Laura Loh, and more.

Saturday, July 13th (1-11pm): Highlights include sets by Ash, Republica, A Certain Ratio, Pip Blom, Goldie Lookin’ Chain (Legends DJ Set), Butch Kassidy, Hats TM, Brioche, Glitterwound, Glass Half Broken, Adomania, K.Kayne, Colours & Fires, Donny Hewitt, Nineteenth Hour, MarksmaN, and more.

Sunday, July 14th (12-9pm): Bringing the festival to a close are performances by Echobelly, La Mort Subite, International Resque, The Skangsters, Rila’s Edge, Elucidate, Ilanga, Funkin’ Souled Out, Saxcelerate, Readiophonics, Freddie Joon, and more.

With its vibrant lineup and strong community vibe, Readipop Festival 2024 pledges an unforgettable weekend celebration of music and unity.

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Events

Reading Buses Open Day 2024

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Reading bus - Photo by Steve Poole

Reading Buses have announced the return of their much-anticipated open day for the year 2024. Scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 30th, at their Great Knollys Street depot, the open day promises a delightful experience for attendees, all at no cost. Moreover, the event aims to support the Royal Berks Charity, designated as the Charity of the Year by Reading Buses.

What to Expect

As in previous editions, this year’s open day boasts a diverse array of offerings, ensuring an enjoyable time for visitors of all ages. From engaging stalls to interactive activities and tantalising food options, there’s something for everyone.

Food Galore

Attendees can indulge in a wide variety of culinary delights, including traditional barbecue fare featuring burgers, sausages, and vegetarian options. For those with a penchant for spicy flavours, there’s a sumptuous curry spread accompanied by samosas and onion bhajis. Additionally, a delectable selection of cakes, strawberries with cream, and assorted beverages await to tantalise taste buds. And for those with a sweet tooth, there’s candy floss and ice cream to satisfy cravings.

Games and Attractions

The open day promises a plethora of entertainment options to keep visitors engaged and amused throughout the event. Highlights include the iconic Reading Buses rainbow lineup, offering a vibrant visual spectacle. Adventurous souls can experience the thrill of riding through the bus wash, while others can revel in the novelty of having their names displayed on the front of a bus. For those with a competitive streak, there are classic carnival games such as coconut shy, hook-a-duck, and skittles. Moreover, enthusiasts of public transport history can explore vintage buses on display, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Reading’s transportation.

Convenient Shuttle Service

To ensure hassle-free access to the event, Reading Buses will provide a complimentary shuttle bus service between Reading town centre and the Great Knollys Street depot. Details regarding the shuttle timetable and stops will be made available closer to the event date, ensuring smooth transportation for all attendees.

In essence, Reading Buses Open Day 2024 promises to be a day filled with fun, food, and festivity, offering an excellent opportunity for the community to come together, all while supporting a worthy cause. Mark your calendars and prepare for a memorable experience on June 30th!

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