On the surface this is a tough festival to preview. Mainly because The Kings Arms keep the line-up under wraps until the day you arrive. So, there is an element of pot luck when you purchase the ticket.
I wouldn't let that put you off, though. Having attending the previous three, I know that you will be hard pressed to find a better festival anywhere. Entry for the whole weekend is yours for just £15.
The pub divides itself into a variety of entertainment areas and morphs into a mini Edinburgh (minus the dashing between venues). Previous years have seen comedy and spoken word in the small theatre space, acoustic music in the snug, as well as solo performers and DJs in the bar. The main theatre is often set aside for larger acts and bands.
Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, Steve Craddock, Cherry Ghost and Horsebeach have played under The Kings Arms vaulted ceiling at past festivals, so I spoke to organiser Lisa Connor about the event...
How is the festival coming along?
"The festival planning is going great. We have lots of surprises up our sleeves this year."
I always like the way that the pub is divided into different performance spaces. Will the festival have a similar layout this year?
"This year we have the main stage upstairs which will be used for bands and then we are using the bar/snug - maybe even outside, weather permitting - for folk and acoustic acts."
At a previous King Arms Festivals, my highlights have included performance poet Marvin Cheeseman and former Inspiral, Tom Hingley. I've also discovered great acts like Stockport comedian Mel Medford and singer/songwriter Franc Cinelli. What are your favourite memories?
"Previous years have brought big names at a pinch of a ticket price; it's hard for me to pick a favourite as I do the bulk of the bookings so obviously I love them all. But it was great seeing Paul Heaton and Cherry Ghost in our intimate space packed with fans. Plus loads of great local bands, Richard Lomax rocks my boat and is always a hit."
I know you won't want to give out any spoilers, but what can you reveal about the Festival?
"We have spread our wings this year and got some extra special help with our bookings, meaning greater scope and quality of artists. I am very excited as one of my all time favourites has confirmed this week so I will be bringing my albums and programmes in for a signature..."
This fantastic event takes place from 16th to 18th September. Come along and find out what's on, discover a new favourite act and watch the unmasking of the mysterious headliner...
The Kings Arms Festival
Friday 16th-Sunday 18th September
Kings Arms
11Bloom Street M3 6AN
£15 – to book tickets click here
Words by Ian Leslie
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