Now in its 21st year, the Hampton Court Palace Festival brings together artists from across the musical spectrum – from pop and blues to classical and opera.
Organisers said around 30,000 festival goers are expected this year – and tickets have already sold out for Frankie Valli, Joe Bonamassa, The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Björn Again and Jools Holland.
Some tickets are still available for Imelda May, Russell Watson and Lisa Stansfield.
Sir Cliff Richard is headlining over two dates.
Jamie Wells, festival director of PWR Events, said: “It’s the mother of heritage picnic concerts.
“No muddy boots here.
“Champagne, picnics on the palace lawns and world-class musicians in an intimate setting.”
The concerts will be taking place in Base Court, the palace’s primary and largest interior courtyard, creating an historic and intimate feeling for audiences.
After the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra concert there will be fireworks and guests are encouraged to stand in the gardens to watch the illuminating display over the palace.
Asked whether the unpredictable British weather had deterred fans in the past, Mr Wells said the concerts up until now had been lucky with their own micro climate.
He said: “At 9pm, when the show is ready to start, the clouds have cleared and we often experience a beautiful summer’s evening.
“On the odd night that it has rained, it doesn’t put the audience off one little bit. British festival goers are very resilient.”
Famed for its hedge maze, tennis courts, huge grapevine and flower show, the palace is situated along the bank of the River Thames, in East Molesey.
Concert dates:
Thursday 13 June – Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
Friday 14 June – Lisa Stansfield
Saturday 15 June – Fanfare and Fireworks with The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra
Sunday 16 June – Russell Watson with The National Symphony Orchestra
Wednesday 19 June – Imelda May
Thursday 20 June – Björn Again
Friday 21 June – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Saturday 22 June – Cliff Richard
Sunday 23 June – Cliff Richard
Monday 24 June – Joe Bonamassa and Beth Hart
Further information is available at hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com
Photo courtesy of paulafunnell, with thanks.
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