Reading and Leeds festivals, attracting 240,000 combined visitors a year combined, have announced the debut of a groundbreaking new stage. The Chevron, a 40,000 capacity open-air venue intended for dance and hip-hop, will feature the world’s first floating ‘video canopy’ made up of hundreds of thousands of programmable LED lights, turning the sky above into a dazzling, reactive display.
Positioned in the main arena of both festival sites, The Chevron signals the return of the singular iconic main stage. Already boasting iconic headliners The Prodigy, house king Sonny Fodera and superstar producer Skrillex, other huge names set to appear at the festivals include Nia Archives, Barry Can’t Swim, Denzel Curry, Bou, Kenya Grace, and Digga D – with more to be announced.
The stage’s canopy construction is intended to make the LEDs appear as if they’re hovering in the air, with a 90% transparent mesh meaning that festival goers will be effectively dancing in the open air.
The Chevron will also host the world’s biggest silent disco, which last year was headlined by SIGMA in a live simulcast set across both sites. Fans can secure their first tier tickets and headsets now for £10 plus refundable £20 deposit.
“The Chevron is more than just a physical stage; it’s a testament to Reading & Leeds’ continued commitment to innovation and industry leadership,” said Festival Republic – the festivals’ owner – managing director Melvin Benn. “We demonstrated this previously, with the introduction and success of dual main stages in 2021. This year I saw the opportunity to do something new and truly special, reflecting the audience’s evolving tastes and cutting edge production the show is known for. This elevates our electronic and hip-hop music offerings, while still delivering six main-stage headliners and a strong representation across other genres. I can’t wait for everyone to experience The Chevron this summer.”
Reading & Leeds takes place 21 – 25 August at Richfield Avenue, Reading and Bramham Park, Leeds, and will be headlined by Fred again.., Lana Del Rey, Blink 182, Liam Gallagher, Gerry Cinnamon, Catfish and the Bottlemen. Other recently announced acts include 21 Savage, RAYE, Skrillex, Jorja Smith, The Prodigy, Digga D, Spiritbox, Reneé Rap, Fontaines D.C, Denzel Curry, Kenny Beats, Beabadoobee, Kenya Grace, Nia Archives, Two Door Cinema Club, Neck Deep, The Wombats, Ashnikko, David Kushner, Rachel Chinouriri, Hak Baker, The Last Dinner Party and many more to be announced.
Tickets are on sale now, with payment plans available from www.readingandleedsfestival.com.
