Few things are as quintessentially British as a good festival, equal parts nostalgia, revelry, and a dash of unpredictable weather. Yet, in a landscape littered with festivals that flicker and fade like shooting stars, The Brit Fest has not only endured but flourished.
At the heart of its success lies a delicate balance: a reverence for musical greats, a keen eye for contemporary talent, and an almost theatrical commitment to atmosphere. This is not simply a gathering of acts, but an experience, curated to feel both grand and personal. With a lineup that boasts Razorlight, 10cc, and Midge Ure, among others, The Brit Fest continues to offer this. Festival director Anthony Prophet offers a glimpse into the alchemy behind it all.
What’s the secret sauce behind The Brit Fest’s expansion? You’ve gone from a promising festival to a full-blown institution in just a few years. Is it the acts, the audience, or just good old-fashioned showmanship?
It’s a combination of all three. We know our audience inside out—they want an experience that brings back incredible memories while still feeling fresh and relevant today. We book legendary acts, create an environment that’s welcoming and premium, and make sure every detail is curated to make The Brit Fest feel special. Add in a strong sense of showmanship and attention to experience, and that seems to create some real magic.
With headliners like 10cc, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, and Midge Ure, you’re tapping into a deep well of British pop history. Do you see Brit Fest as a celebration of legacy acts, or do you have a vision for bridging the gap between then and now?
It’s both. We celebrate the icons who shaped British music, but we’re also conscious of keeping the event dynamic. Our vision is about bridging generations, giving fans a chance to relive the anthems they love while introducing fresh talent that fits seamlessly into the festival’s DNA.
The UK festival market is packed, and every year another promising event bites the dust. What keeps The Brit Fest not just afloat but thriving in a sea of Glastonburys and boutique “curated experiences”?
Many festivals struggle because they try to chase trends rather than focusing on what makes them unique. We know exactly what The Brit Fest is, and we stick to it. It’s about great music, a fantastic atmosphere, and a festival experience that’s comfortable and well-organised. People trust us to deliver a weekend they’ll love, and that loyalty keeps us growing.
Silent discos, wellness zones, eco-friendly toilets; festivals are no longer just about watching bands and drinking overpriced lager. Do you see these extras as essential to survival?
Absolutely. Festivals are about more than just music now—they’re about experience. We put a huge emphasis on comfort, quality, and atmosphere so that people don’t just enjoy the music, but the entire festival environment. Whether it’s better facilities, premium food and drink, or unique activities like silent discos, these details help create a festival people want to return to year after year.
You’re not just organisers; you’re tastemakers. What drives your booking choices? Is it personal fandom, industry connections, or a finely tuned sense of what The Brit Fest audience wants?
It’s a mix of all three. We know our audience, and we book with them in mind. Personal fandom plays a role—because if we’re passionate about an act, it usually resonates with the crowd. Industry connections help secure the right names, but at the end of the day, it’s about instinct and understanding what makes the right festival artist.
What makes The Brit Fest uniquely British? Is it the lineup, the crowd, the weather, or something less tangible that keeps bringing people back?
It’s a bit of everything! The lineup is packed with British music legends, and the crowd is a mix of lifelong fans and new generations experiencing these acts for the first time. The weather—well, that’s just part of the charm! But the real magic is in the spirit of the festival itself—the shared moments, the singalongs, and the feeling that you’re part of something special. That’s what keeps people coming back.
Further information
The Brit Fest 2025, Ashley Hall Showground, Altrincham, UK, 4 to 6 July 2025
