Bearded Theory 2025: Iggy Pop, Manic Street Preachers and The Sisters of Mercy lead explosive line-up
The much-anticipated Bearded Theory festival has officially announced its first wave of acts for 2025, and it’s a line-up packed with legendary names, rising stars, and a diverse array of genres. Set to take place once again at the scenic Catton Park in Derbyshire, from 21-25 May, Bearded Theory is shaping up to be an unmissable weekend for festivalgoers.
Headlining the 2025 edition are punk rock godfather Iggy Pop, alternative rock heavyweights Manic Street Preachers, and gothic rock pioneers The Sisters of Mercy. Joining them are boundary-pushing acts like Yard Act, Leftfield, CLT DRP, and Nova Twins, alongside Irish folk-punk favourites The Mary Wallopers, alt-rock stalwarts Ash, and genre-defying newcomers Fat Dog. With such a mix of styles and legends, the festival is set to deliver an unforgettable musical experience.
Also on the bill are indie-electro outfit Lime Garden, psychedelic duo The Lovely Eggs, folk artist Bess Atwell, and heavy hitters band Dream State. Meanwhile, Asian Dub Foundation brings their politically charged fusion of dub, punk, and electronica to the stage, adding yet another dynamic flavour to the line-up.
Bearded Theory’s charm extends beyond its impressive music roster. Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, this award-winning independent festival has built a reputation for its relaxed and community-driven vibe. The festival features eight stages, including the intimate Woodland Stage, where attendees can experience sets from both emerging talents and established names. The introduction of the CODA dance area last year has only enhanced the festival’s eclectic nature, with attendees treated to sets from electronic pioneers like Orbital and Utah Saints.
This year’s festival also brings back some of its beloved features, like the Festival School, a unique initiative where children can enjoy a mix of education and fun activities ranging from DJ workshops to puppet making. For those looking to unwind, the Earth Area offers a range of crafts, eco-conscious activities, and wellness sessions like tarot reading and mindfulness workshops.
With Iggy Pop promising to deliver a raw, energetic performance, and Manic Street Preachers set to bring their anthemic hits to the masses, Bearded Theory 2025 is poised to deliver yet another spectacular edition. For fans of music that spans genres, decades, and styles, this year’s festival is already looking like the perfect way to spend the May bank holiday.
Full List of Announced Acts: Iggy Pop, Manic Street Preachers, The Sisters of Mercy, Yard Act, Leftfield, The Mary Wallopers, Ash, CMAT, Nova Twins, Fat Dog, Throwing Muses, Divorce, The Selecter, Ned’s Atomic Dustbin, The Lovely Eggs, Asian Dub Foundation, Shonen Knife, Bess Atwell, Beans on Toast, Stewart Lee, Lime Garden, Dream State, Girlband!, Molotov Jukebox, Zion Train, Angeline Morrison, Man/Woman/Chainsaw, Trupa Trupa, Miki Berenyi Trio, Getdown Services, The Deep Blue, The None, Gaz Brookfield and the Company of Thieves, Audioweb, CLT DRP, Bentley Rhythm Ace, Popes of Chillitown, Castle Rat, Merry Hell, Dakka Skanks, Slaney Bay, Slay Duggee, Jess Silk Trio, 3 Daft Monkeys, Midnight Rodeo, The Brandy Thieves, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican.
Tickets for Bearded Theory 2025 are on sale now, with monthly payment plans available to help spread the cost. With the first wave of artists already causing a buzz, expect tickets to move fast. Whether you’re in it for the punk, the folk, or the electronica, Bearded Theory promises something for everyone.
Save the date for Bearded Theory 2025, and watch the video for the Iggy Pop classic “The Passenger”:
