If you’re a fan of immersive theatre and music festivals, you’ve probably heard of Boomtown Fair – the UK’s largest independent festival that creates a sprawling city of different districts, each with its own theme, genre and story. The festival is known for its elaborate stages, stunning visuals and diverse line-up of artists from around the world.
But what can you expect from Boomtown 2023? The festival has recently revealed some details about its upcoming edition, titled Chapter Two: The Twin Trail. This year’s theme is about exploring your inner self and finding balance between two opposing forces: light and dark, order and chaos, nature and technology.
So far, three districts have been announced: Copper County, Metropolis and Area 404. The trailers for each one are below, along with a quick overview.
Copper County
The first district to be announced was Copper County – a wild west-themed area that celebrates folk, country and Americana music. Copper County is home to some of Boomtown’s most iconic stages, such as Oldtown Square, Rusty Spurs and The Forge. Here you can enjoy live bands, acoustic sessions, comedy shows and cabaret acts.
If you want to get into the vibe, there’s also an official Copper County Spotify playlist comprised of artists who played the area last year.
The power of invention, imagination and freedom drive the turning cogs of this district. Experiencing a financial upswing due to a series of successful inventions, Copper County moves towards the roaring 1920’s – the previously run down town now exploding with art, culture and parties.
Historically known for inventiveness and entrepreneurship, the bigwigs of the Town turn their hands towards new industries. Whether these will be good or bad for the district is unclear…
Immersed in 1920s scenery, expect plenty of theatrical festival favourites. From funk-fuelled horns & bangin’ brass to high-energy folk and psychedelic global grooves plus so much more!
Boomtown’s official district announcement
Metropolis
The second district to be announced was Metropolis – a futuristic cityscape that showcases electronic music genres such as techno, house and drum & bass. Metropolis is a reimagined version of one of Boomtown’s oldest districts that has been elevated to new heights with stunning architecture and lighting design. Metropolis is a place of enhanced indulgence and self-expression.
There’s an official Metropolis Spotify playlist with last year’s artists too.
Metropolis is a vivid techtopia of enhanced indulgence, with total self expression at the core. Although cutting edge developments show a way to a better future for all, machines continue to milk dopamine for many digital hedonists, engrossed in filtered personas of themselves and others.
From Techno to House, via Acid Rave, Breakbeats and Disco. Plug in and upload your consciousness to become one with the beat.
Although it is unclear who profits from the constant bleeps and whistles, rumour has it that ‘The Betterverse’ – a monolithic structure owned by two charismatic tech geniuses, promises to deliver an escape from this world for those deemed worthy. Hypnotised by bright lights and shiny buttons, citizens struggle to stay grounded in reality. Is this a simulation?
Boomtown’s official district announcement
Area 404
The third district to be announced was Area 404 – a post-apocalyptic wasteland that hosts bass music genres such as dubstep, grime and jungle. Area 404 is a place of rebellion and resistance against the oppressive forces that once ruled Boomtown.
There’s an official Area 404 Spotify playlist with last year’s artists here.
The system has collapsed and we have survived, let the new world begin! A refuge for radical revolutionaries, lost kids and punks, residents of Area 404 welcome all to their squatted paradise, built from the ashes of the labs destroyed in the Lost Chapter. In Chapter Two 404’s rival gangs have come together under the guidance of ‘The Collector’, a mysterious new figure uniting the outlawed factions of the district…
As light bleeds through the cracks in the walls, the residents dance; salvaging what they can from the rubble of civilization. Anything goes in this self-governed anarchistic community.
Boomtown’s official district announcement
More districts are expected to be announced soon by Boomtown organisers. Make sure you’re following the official Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts to keep updated.
Boomtown Fair will take place from August 9th to August 13th 2023 at Matterley Estate near Winchester in Hampshire. Tickets are on sale now via Kaboodle.
Image credits:
Sian Herbert
Giulia Spadafora
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