Comedy
We’re amping up our comedy line up further with a burst of hilarity from a diverse range of comedians. In the TK Maxx Presents Comedy Arena, David Morgan, known for presenting ‘I’M A CELEBRITY… GET ME OUT OF HERE! NOW!’ brings non-binary finery to the stage. Also joining the bill is award-winning online sensation Morgan Rees – a master of one-liners and short stories who continues to impress with his acclaimed UK solo tour, ‘Turning Thirsty’.
Elf Lyons also performs her award-winning and unladylike performance style, recognised by The Telegraph as one of the funniest comedians of the 21st century. Jamie Finn, celebrated for his storytelling and fresh comedic style in his critically acclaimed Fringe show, adds to the stellar line up. Jeromaia Detto’s cartoonish sketches and interactive audience antics promise constant hilarity, with characters like a Pringles-praising priest and an Italian beach boy. Kathy Maniura’s character comedy and absurdist drag king persona bring a unique charm to the festival.
Lil Wenker presents his show BANGTAIL, an epic tale of cowboy clown chaos. MANBO, featuring Sam Dugmore’s high-energy, 80s action hero parody, is another highlight. Michelle Brasier‘s multi-award-winning performances blend stand-up with theatricality, delivering a rollercoaster of laughter and emotion. Rosa Garland’s queer cult hit Trash Salad adds a provocative edge, promising a sexy and unsavoury comedic experience.
David Morgan will be one of the hosts of the Comedy Arena
Conversations, Podcasts and Poetry
This year, Latitude presents a vibrant line up of podcasts, conversations, and ideas, showcasing diverse voices and celebrating human experiences. The Cosmic Shambles Network is set to bring a dazzling array of intellectual and comedic brilliance to Latitude. Robin Ince will lead an engaging conversation with iconic figures Reece Shearsmith and Alexei Sayle. Alexei Sayle, a national icon and pivotal figure in British Alternative Comedy, will join Robin to reflect on his celebrated career, spanning bestselling authorship and revered stand-up performances. Reece Shearsmith, renowned for co-creating and starring in acclaimed series like The League of Gentlemen, Psychoville, and Inside No. 9, will share perspectives on his collaborative writing process, his extensive acting career across stage and screen, and his impact on contemporary British television.
Ince will also present a live edition of his acclaimed podcast series, An Uncanny Hour, with guests Reece Shearsmith, British astrophysicist, author, and broadcaster Chris Lintott, and British comedian, writer, and actress Joanna Neary. Together, they will delve into the mysterious and the bizarre, pushing the boundaries of human understanding and experience. This unique blend of deep thought and humour promises to make Latitude a centre of intellectual excitement and joyous exploration. For our 18th edition, they will venture into Adults Only territory, delving into the history of 18+ horror and beyond, and uncovering forgotten cultural gems that deserve rediscovery.
Reece Shearsmith will be in conversation with Robin Ince and Alexei Sayle
As previously announced, The Cosmic Shambles Network will present Robin Ince’s Book Corner, a captivating literary area featuring an eclectic line up of authors and thinkers. Today the guests for this new section of the festival are confirmed as renowned astronomer Chris Lintott, presenter of Radio 4’s ‘All in the Mind’ and author of ‘The Art of Rest & The Keys to Kindness’ Claudia Hammond, singer and guitarist of King Crimson Jakko Jakszyk, passionate entomologist Jess French, celebrated Nigerian novelist Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀, physicist and oceanographer Helen Czerski, legendary comedian Stewart Lee, and NASA doctor Kevin Fong. Together, they will explore a diverse range of topics, from science and literature to music and mental health, promising an enriching and thought-provoking experience for all attendees.
A celebration of all things curious and creative, Nine Lessons for Latitude also promises to be a must-see event. Robin Ince will be joined by Helen Czerski, astrophysicist Jen Gupta, soulful singer-songwriter Charlotte Carpenter, and other special guests. This session will offer a unique blend of science, music, and comedy, showcasing the intersection of curiosity, creativity, and knowledge.
Latitude promises an exciting line up of podcasts and personalities, including the smash-hit series Evil Genius hosted by Russell Kane. Known for its witty and irreverent take on historical figures, the podcast challenges perceptions of heroes and villains. The festival will also feature DJ Paulette, recipient of the DJ Mag Top 100 Lifetime Achievement Award, renowned for her influential career in disco, house, and techno. In conversation with DJ and activist Sarah Lamptey, Paulette will delve into her journey through the highs and depths of dance music culture, promising a dynamic exchange that celebrates music and social activism.
Also joining the line up is Rhik Samadder, an actor and Guardian columnist whose memoir ‘I Never Said I Loved You’ navigates the complexities of living with depression with both poignancy and humour. Grace Willow, known as the host of the Greenpeace Stage at Glastonbury Festival, will return to MC The Listening Post at Latitude.
During the festival, Anoushka Warden, a celebrated writer for stage and screen, will share insights into her acclaimed debut novel ‘I’m F*cking Amazing’. In conversation with Holly Williams, an esteemed author and critic, Warden will explore modern relationships and self-discovery with candidness and depth.
The smash-hit podcast Evil Genius hosted by Russell Kane is coming to Latitude
Theatre and Dance
Latitude will also welcome the renowned INK Festival, showcasing a selection of innovative and thought-provoking short plays and performances across the weekend.
Rosy Carrick‘s career has long been based around her frankness around sex. And yet, the sex she’s always been so open about, is radically different from Rosy’s earliest private erotic fantasies, of musclebound heroes in movies. With Musclebound, Rosy asks: what sexual lessons we want to pass down?
Wright and Grainger tell Ancient Greek myths as if they’re taking place today. In a festival first, they will perform the captivating Helios at dawn in what promises to be a stand-out Latitude moment.
Across the Arts
Across the weekend, we also feature the delightful LAT-TEA-TUDE with Queenie Tea. Common Threads Press will bring their expertise in creating zines, while the Honeybee Workshop will provide engaging, hands-on activities to educate attendees on the vital role of bees. Additionally, Bobby Spooner will host Whittling Workshops, offering participants the chance to enjoy mindful carving sessions.
Rosy Carrick: Musclebound
We can’t wait to welcome you all back to Henham Park for our 18th edition later this month. Weekend and Day tickets are still available at the link below. Your summer adventure awaits…