KITE Festival 2024: Music, Ideas, and Inspiration at Abbey Road Studios
This October, Abbey Road Studios—London’s legendary music landmark—will host a unique blend of music, creativity, and thought-provoking conversations as KITE Festival 2024 returns for a weekend of unforgettable experiences. From 5th to 6th October 2024, some of the most exciting voices from the world of music, literature, current affairs, and innovation will come together for two days of performances, discussions, and inspiration.
For the first time, KITE will take place across the iconic three studios of Abbey Road, adding an extra layer of magic to an already diverse programme. Expect a line-up of not only musicians but also writers, filmmakers, and thinkers who will share their insights, ideas, and creativity.
An Unmissable Ideas Programme
The Ideas programme will feature some of the most dynamic voices of our time. Richard Gadd, star of Baby Reindeer, will discuss the Netflix drama that captured global attention. Acclaimed author Elif Shafak will delve into the question of who owns history, while historian William Dalrymple offers lessons from the past. Richard Curtis, renowned for his groundbreaking films, will explore how film and television can inspire real-world change. Fans of Black Mirror can also look forward to Charlie Brooker’s razor-sharp take on technology, truth, and his unnerving dystopian narratives.
Philippe Sands, celebrated lawyer and author, will address issues of impunity, while Bella Mackie, known for her bestseller How to Kill Your Family, and David Nicholls, author of One Day, will discuss love, dysfunction, and relationships. Asif Kapadia, the award-winning director behind Senna and Amy, will speak on the power of storytelling in film.
KITE Festival will also explore pressing topics such as mental health with Rizzle Kicks’ Jordan Stephens and Professor Green. Grace Blakeley will break down capitalism’s woes, while David Olusoga will confront Britain’s complex past. There will be discussions on trans rights, migration, artificial intelligence, and creativity in education, ensuring a well-rounded programme for those eager to engage with the big issues of today.
Music and Performances Throughout the Weekend
Abbey Road will come alive with music all weekend long. A line-up of acoustic singer-songwriters, folk artists, and R&B performers will take the stage. Headliners include the vibrant Kokoroko, who will bring their energetic fusion of afrobeat and West African style, and Kojey Radical, known for his genre-blending mix of rap, jazz, spoken-word, and funk.
In addition, legendary film composer Daniel Pemberton will sit down with Edith Bowman to discuss his work on film scores, from Spider-Man to The Trial of the Chicago 7. Spoken word fans will enjoy performances from World Slam Poetry Champion Harry Baker, while comedian Lou Sanders promises plenty of laughter.
A Rich Festival History
In past years, KITE has taken place in Oxfordshire, featuring cultural icons such as Grace Jones, Ai Weiwei, Hot Chip, and George the Poet. This year, by moving to Abbey Road Studios, KITE promises to deliver the same mix of inspiration, insight, and entertainment—alongside plenty of dancing. Whether you’re there for the music, the ideas, or both, KITE Festival 2024 offers an exciting blend of creativity and conversation in one of the world’s most historic musical venues.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets for KITE Festival 2024 at Abbey Road Studios are on sale now. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event, where the worlds of music, art, and thought will come together for two incredible days of connection and inspiration.
