First Acts Revealed for Shrewsbury Folk Festival's 30th Anniversary Event

Organisers have announced the initial line-up for the 30th edition of the Shrewsbury Folk Festival, which will also mark two decades at its current location at the West Mid Showground.

Folk legend Richard Thompson, shanty group Fisherman's Friends, and Orchestra Baobab are among the first performers confirmed for the four-day event. The festival is scheduled to take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, running from 27 to 30 August.

Festival Line-up and Attractions

• Richard Thompson performing with a select line-up of musical friends in an exclusive show.
• Fisherman's Friends and Orchestra Baobab.
• Additional artists including The Young'uns, Grace Petrie, Fanny Lumsden, Edward II, Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra, Morgan Toney, Grainne Duffy, and comedian David Eagle.

Event Background and History

According to festival details, the four-day event originally began in Bridgnorth in 1997 with an attendance of 700 people. It later moved to Shrewsbury in 2006 and settled at the West Mid Showground in 2007.

Festival director Sandra Surtees stated that the upcoming milestone event is expected to feature a mix of returning artists, new talents, and special performances. In addition to music across four stages, the festival typically includes dance events, workshops, craft and music fairs, food stalls, and on-site camping facilities.

Practical Implications and Verification

Tickets for the event are currently on sale, and organisers have indicated that additional acts will be announced in the coming months. Attendees and interested members of the public can verify announcements, check schedule updates, and purchase tickets by visiting the official Shrewsbury Folk Festival website or following verified regional news sources.