The first acts for next year’s Cropredy festival have been confirmed, with Marillion and Richard Thompson leading the list.
The annual event, hosted by Fairport Convention, will take place on the weekend of August 10-12 in 2017 – and it’ll also mark five decades since the band’s inception.
Fairport Convention say: “Returning by popular demand, we welcome back prog rock giants Marillion. The band, with perhaps the most loyal following on the planet, just don’t stop touring and are currently on the road promoting their 18th studio album F.E.A.R.
“We know we don’t need to tell you that Richard has received lifetime achievement awards on both sides of the Atlantic, a prestigious Ivor Novello Award, and in 2011 was presented with an OBE – but it’s nice to be reminded.
“Richard will also be joining us on Saturday night for our 50th anniversary celebrations.”
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Other artists confirmed for the festival include The Divine Comedy, Dougie MacLean, Show Of Hands, Pierce Brothers, Cats In Space, Gigspanner Big Band and Gerry Colvin.
Fairport add: “Obviously the lineup will reflect our 50th anniversary – look out for some surprise guests – but won’t be dominated by it. In fact, the lineup is shaping up nicely.”
Pre-Christmas ticket deals are now on offer via the Cropredy box office, with the first 1000 buyers receiving a Christmas card signed by the band, and the first 2000 receiving a souvenir car sticker. All UK orders are guaranteed to arrive in time for December 25. The box office closes at the end of the week, reopening on February 1.
Marillion - F.E.A.R. album review
Fairport Cropredy Convention 2017 lineup so far
Marillion
Richard Thompson
The Divine Comedy
Dougie MacLean
Fairport Convention
Show Of Hands
Pierce Brothers
Cats In Space
Gigspanner Big Band
Gerry Colvin