Critical popcorn

We’re delighted to share the news that one of the UK’s most illuminating and eclectic boutique festivals, The Curious Arts Festival, is returning for a fourth year in the glorious grounds of Pylewell Park, deep in the New Forest, at the start of the holidays (21-23 July), and this years programme could well be setting pretty smart standards for green field arts festivals.

In a festival that mixes up the cultural, creative and curious, already confirmed for music is the likes of Tom Odell, Brit Critics Choice Award winner Izzy Bizu, and A&R man turned novelist, John Niven. There’s also electro-soul act Seramic, Ibibio Sound Machine who blend Nigerian pop and British electronica, Icelandic musician Junius Meyvant, Brighton talent Martha Gunn, rising star Alex Francis with his emotive blend of rock and soul, hotly tipped Jordan Mackampa, 21-year old Irish singer songwriter Aine Cahill and also Benedict Benjamin.

There’s a great literary line-up that includes Dave Eggers, poet Lemn Sissay, Matt Haig, Baileys Women’s Prize for Fiction winner Eimear McBride, and that’s just a small selection. You’ll get comedy from Radio 4 regular Simon Evans, Ed Byrne, Paul Tonkinson, lightening-quick sketch group The Noise Next Door, and Nat Luurtsema.

Because it’s the start of the summer, and they’re offering up experiences for all ages, Childrens’ events include Breath of Life Puppetry workshops, a Jabberwocky Hunt, plus Ella Berthoud will be offering Story Cures for children and their families.

Taking place from 21st – 23rd July 2017. Tickets are now on sale at www.curiousartsfestival.com and booking is fulfilled by new festival partner Sky Tickets. Tickets are priced at £128 weekend adult, £300 weekend family, £23 weekend child (5-13), £55 day adult, £20 day child (5-13).

Camping is FREE and GLAMPING options can be booked now.