Welcome
IF: Milton Keynes International Festival
10 amazing days of extraordinary events and experiences.
Every two years IF: Milton Keynes International Festival pops up, as if by magic, turning the city into a stage and peppering it with pink. How we get to the point of delivering this award-winning Festival is another story altogether.
Since our last Festival in 2023, exceptional people have collaborated to bring you extraordinary events, including world and UK premieres, as part of a distinctive programme of installations and performances, outdoor spectaculars, circus, comedy, cabaret, live music and free family activities.
As we face a world in turmoil, we celebrate the power of artists to inspire, provoke and comfort. With a spirit of resilience, freedom and possibility, this Festival asks us to dream big, overcome challenges together and imagine a brighter, shared future.
Much of the programme is free to attend, but we make a huge investment in artists, travel, accommodation and production infrastructure to be able to present these world-class events.
As a registered charity, we are hugely grateful for the support of our Partners, our Innovation Founders and our dedicated staff behind the scenes and wonderful volunteers welcoming you in their pink T-shirts.
If you can, please buy some tickets for family and friends, or make a donation online or at one of our ticket offices on site.
But for now, take time to explore the programme and plan your 10 amazing days.
Monica Ferguson, Festival Director & Chief Executive of The Stables
Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July, 10am-11pm daily
Public dove-making workshops, 11am–3pm Sound and light show, 9pm–11pm
Michael Pendry’s multimedia artwork Les Colombes (The White Doves) has embarked on an incredible worldwide journey, from Mount Zion in Jerusalem to New York and Mumbai — and now it arrives in Milton Keynes.
This spectacular installation explores the bonds that tie us together and the delicate balance between individual freedom and collective belonging. Its clear message of peace resonates on a deeply personal level, prompting questions about freedom and the hope for a better future.
Location Middleton Hall, centre:mk, MK9 3EP
Be part of Les Colombes
We are partnering with local communities, businesses and arts organisations to extend Les Colombes throughout the city, uniting us in the values of sharing, caring and hope for the future.
Take part in one of our daily dove-making workshops in Middleton Hall from 3-27 July, or download the information pack from the Festival website to create your own.
For ages 8+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Discover more Talk: The Symbolism of the Dove
Thursday 17 July, 5pm
See page 54 for details.
Image: Ash Mills
Deabru Beltzak: Symfeuny
Friday 18 July, 9.45pm
Prepare for an electrifying start to this year’s Festival as innovative rhythms, breathtaking special effects and fiery pyrotechnics converge to generate an irresistible surge of energy.
Renowned Spanish street theatre company
Deabru Beltzak will set off from Xscape on a mesmerising pyrotechnic and drumming procession that climaxes with a spectacular stage show finale in Campbell Park.
Location
Procession starts at Xscape, Marlborough Gate, MK9 3XS and ends at Campbell Park Bulbfield, MK9 4AT
Suitable for all ages, this is a loud event and you may wish to bring ear protectors for children and those who are sensitive to loud noise. FREE EVENT UK PREMIERE
Ages
Luke Jerram: Mars
Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July
Imagine gazing down upon the stark beauty of Mars.
Luke Jerram’s touring artwork, Mars, makes this possible. This expansive seven-metre sphere uses detailed 120dpi NASA photographs to bring the red planet to life. At a scale of 1:1 million, each centimetre on the internally illuminated surface corresponds to 10 kilometres on Mars.
The artwork offers a unique aerial perspective, allowing you to study the intricate details of Martian valleys, craters, volcanoes and mountains as if you were orbiting above. FREE EVENT
Image: (c) Dave Parry, Press Association
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July
Location and times
The Open University, next to Berrill Building, MK7 6AA
(see map on page 76)
Friday 18 July, 10am-9pm
Saturday 19 July, 10am-9pm
Sunday 20 July, 10am-4pm
Monday 21 – Sunday 27 July
Location and times
Church of Christ the Cornerstone, 300 Saxon Gate, MK9 2ES
Monday 21 July, 3pm-8pm
Tuesday 22 July, 10am-8pm
Wednesday 23 July, 10am-8pm
Friday 25 July, 10am-12.30pm
Saturday 26 July, 10am-4pm & 7pm-9pm
Sunday 27 July, 2pm-6pm
Admission
Free, suggested donation £3
Ages
Suitable for all ages, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Discover more
Talk: The Making of Mars, Where Art Meets Science
Saturday 19 July, 2pm
See page 56 for details.
See Ensemble Augelletti perform beneath Mars on Friday 25 July, 7.30pm. Details on page 19.
Zwermers: Pan~// Catwalk
Friday 18 July & Saturday 19 July
Two performers, one catwalk and a never-ending row of outfits.
From a worn-out denim jacket to an extravagant glitter dress, our clothes are an expression of who we are, want to be and sometimes have to be.
Through a fusion of fashion, choreography, live music and theatre, Pan~// Catwalk challenges the urge to label or judge others based on how they appear, revealing instead a mind-opening celebration of fluidity and self-expression.
Zwermers are working with the local community to showcase their own wardrobes and identities. This community engagement culminates on the Saturday when participants will deliver a specially curated version of the show.
Friday 18 July
12pm & 2.45pm at Queen’s Court, centre:mk, MK9 3EP
Saturday 19 July
Community performances 12.45pm & 3.30pm at Unity Place, Grafton Gate, MK9 1UP
Ages
Suitable for all ages, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Community Event Partner
Klub Girko: Human Time –
Tree Time
Friday 18 July, 2pm & 6pm
Saturday 19 July, 11am & 2pm
Sunday 20 July, 11am & 2pm
A performance in constant search of the perfect balance.
How do you balance a tree? How do you balance on a tree? How do you balance on a tree in balance? Klub Girko take us on a journey to explore our relationship with nature, which is as delicate as a balancing act.
Using trees, branches and roots, the performers become bodies immersed in the woods, searching for the perfect point that defies the laws of gravity.
Location Campbell Park Copse, MK9 3FT
Meeting point Campbell Park, tree seat to the rear of the amphitheatre, look for the Festival flag.
///trombone.twinkled.
showcases
Tickets
£6, under-16s £5
Ages 6+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Access information
This event involves a walk through woodland. Please visit the Festival website for full access information.
Architects of Air: Terceradix
Thursday 24 July, 11am-4.30pm*
Friday 25 July, 11am-7pm*
Saturday 26 July, 11am-7pm*
Sunday 27 July, 11am-7pm*
Step into a world of pure colour and light!
For more than three decades, Architects of Air’s luminaria have captivated audiences, drawing more than three million people into their monumental, walk-in sculptures. These immersive experiences owe their vibrant colours to the simple magic of daylight filtering through the fabric.
Terceradix is their brightest and most colourful yet. Its maze-like structure, reminiscent of a futuristic space station, features soaring domes and winding paths, where organic shapes and diverse architectural influences merge in a breathtaking display of design and engineering.
* last admisson
Please tell us if you are coming in a large group so we can help you manage your visit. Please note that Terceradix has a maximum capacity of 80 visitors at any one time. There is no time restriction on how long you stay, though we suggest 20 minutes as the maximum time, allowing other visitors to enter the structure.
Location Campbell Park Bulbfield, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£6, under-16s £5, family of four £20 Ages
Suitable for all ages, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Information
Advance tickets can be bought online up to midnight the day before your visit for admission times between 11.30am and 3.30pm (Thursday 24) and 11.30am and 6pm (Friday 25 –Sunday 27). Tickets are also available to buy on the day.
Kamchàtka: Fugit
Thursday 24 – Saturday 26 July, 1pm & 7.30pm
Having captivated audiences with Alter at IF: 2023, Kamchàtka return to the Festival, this time with the UK premiere of Fugit.
This is the story of those who have left, those who will be leaving and all those who have played a crucial role in assisting them. A homage to those who have had the courage to abandon the unnecessary, leave the familiar behind and move on, striving for a better world.
Be prepared for an immersive journey into the unexpected.
Location
Wolverton, MK12 (exact details of meeting point will be sent before the performance). Tickets £15, under-16s £10
Ages 12+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Access information This performance moves quickly from place to place and may be unsuitable for those with impaired mobility. Please call the box office or visit the Festival website for more information.
Mark Anderson: Warning Notes
Thursday 24 – Saturday 26 July, 6pm-10pm
As day turns to night, immerse yourself in a captivating sound world and everchanging outdoor live performance.
Using an ensemble of visually striking mechanical ‘instruments’ – gongs, bells, whistles and explosive events – and created in collaboration with Liam Walsh, Warning Notes creates a rich and powerful soundscape that gives voice to the current social and ecological alarm that ripples across our world.
FREE EVENT
Location
Fred Roche Gardens, 406 Silbury Boulevard, MK9 2ND Ages
Suitable for all ages, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Admission
Free, suggested donation £3
Discover more Warning Notes: Sound Workshop Saturday 26 July, 11am-3pm See page 59 for details.
Utopia In Verse: A Poetry Jam
Thursday 24 July, 7pm
Step into the light — literally.
Utopia In Verse is an event curated by our brilliant poet-in-residence, Maureen Onwunali, that speaks to radical hope, collective liberation and the audacity to imagine a world otherwise. With live music and a guest artist selected from Maureen’s work with local young poets, this event brings together sound, story and the power of community.
This isn’t just a performance – it’s an invitation to dream as one.
As part of this event, Maureen will be performing her new work, a special commission by centre:mk in collaboration with IF: Milton Keynes International Festival.
Commissioning Partner
Location
Terceradix, Campbell Park
Bulbfield, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£15
Ages 16+
Gijs van Bon: Nyx
Thursday 24 July, 8.30pm-10.30pm MK Rose, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Friday 25 July, 8.30pm-10.30pm Festival Square, MK9 3FN (outside Door 18, centre:mk)
Experience this mesmerising spectacle as the mechanical marvel Nyx slowly brings Maureen Onwunali’s poetic Festival commission to life.
Watch as the glowing script emerges, letter by letter, traced in light-emitting powder across the ground.
FREE EVENT
Ages 5+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Tania El Khoury: Memory of Birds
Friday 25 July & Saturday 26 July, performances on the hour from 11am-6pm
Sunday 27 July, performances on the hour from 11am-4pm
MemoryofBirds is an interactive sound installation that takes place in trees, in collaboration with a trauma therapist and migrating birds.
The work explores political violence that literally and figuratively gets buried in contested lands. It centres the artist’s complicated relationship with the land – one that holds trauma, mass graves and toxicity, a repository of political struggle, a record of power dynamics and a site of various species migrating for survival.
Location
Campbell Park Copse, MK9 3FT
Meeting point Campbell Park, tree seat to the rear of the amphitheatre, look for the Festival flag.
///trombone.twinkled. showcases
Tickets £14
Ages 16+
Access information
Audience members will experience the event within an individual custom-made hammock structure approximately 2 feet above the ground in which they lie flat for 30 minutes. Visit the Festival website for full access information.
Ensemble Augelletti: The Morning Star
Friday 25 July, 7.30pm
Performing beneath Luke Jerram’s Mars, the renowned early music group Ensemble Augelletti celebrate some extraordinary stories of 17th and 18th century astronomers with a concert of music inspired by stars, angels and planets.
The programme includes works by Corelli, Schmelzer and Uccellini and settings of How Beautifully Shines The Morning Star.
Founded in 2019, Ensemble Augelletti are the current New Generation Baroque Ensemble in partnership with BBC Radio 3, the National Centre for Early Music and the Royal College of Music.
Location
Church of Christ the Cornerstone, 300 Saxon Gate, MK9 2ES
Tickets
£22.50, under-16s £11, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Unreserved seating
Transe Express: DNA, Vertical Odyssey
Friday 25 & Saturday 26 July, 9.45pm
Don’t miss this year’s large-scale Festival spectacle!
French theatre company Transe Express deliver a stunning and enchanting performance that will leave audiences of all ages spellbound.
Gravity-defying climbs, hypnotic aerial artistry and exhilarating circus skills unfold high above you in the night sky. Driven by an electrifying live soundtrack, this incredible demonstration of teamwork is a must-see, promising an unforgettable and dramatic highlight of the Festival’s closing weekend.
Location
Secklow Gate, D3 Car Park (near The Point), MK9 3NE
Tickets
£7.50, under-16s
£5
Ages DNA is an all-ages event, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone over 2 years old will need a ticket.
Information This is a standing event. Visit the Festival website for full access information.
Family Focus
Both weekends of the Festival are full of fantastic free, pop-up shows and experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
Friday 18 — Sunday 20 July
Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise and Serving Sounds
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July
NoFit State: Bamboo
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July
Tombs Creatius: Xics del Xurrac
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July
Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk
Friday 18 – Saturday 19 July
15ft6: Les Patineurs
Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 July
Pagrav Dance: One Sky
Saturday 19 July
Osadía:
Whose Hair Dares
Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 July
Saturday 26 — Sunday 27 July
Half A String: The Lost Colour and Space Chickens
Saturday 26 July
Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare
Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 July
Gandini Juggling & SAY Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 July
Sam Goodburn: Wire Attire Sunday 27 July
Working Boys Club
Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July
Noisy Noise Noise
Noisy Noise Noise is a sound library for noisy children and their grown-ups.
Within this interactive installation there are more than 90 books, each of which will, when pressed, trigger a noise. It could be a song, a film clip, a meme – or just something a little bit rude and funny!
Friday 18 July, 4pm
Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Saturday 19 July, 10am & 2pm Midsummer Place, MK9 3GB
Sunday 20 July, 11am & 3pm Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Each Noisy Noise Noise session is open for 3 hours.
Serving Sounds
Serving Sounds is a mobile pub that creates connections through music.
You’ll find all the things you’d usually find on a bar, like glasses and beer mats. But when touched, these items create a groove, a sound – maybe even your favourite song.
Friday 18 July, 1pm Unity Place, MK9 1UP 4.15pm & 9.30pm Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Saturday 19 July, 12pm & 3pm Festival Square, MK9 3FN 5.15pm Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Sunday 20 July, 11.15am, 2.15pm & 4pm Queens Court, centre:mk, MK9 3EP
Each Serving Sounds session lasts 40 minutes.
Ages 4+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Tombs Creatius: Xics del Xurrac
Friday 18 July, 4pm-7pm
Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 July, 11am-5pm
Catalan theatre company and Festival favourites Tombs Creatius bring fun and games back to the streets.
Come and join the Xics in playful and challenging games and puzzles for all ages throughout the day.
Everyone can be a Xurrac Xic. You just need to play!
Location
FREE EVENT
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Ages 4+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
NoFit State Circus: BAMBOO
Friday 18 July, 5pm
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Saturday 19 July, 12.15pm & 3.15pm
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Sunday 20 July, 12pm & 3pm
Queen’s Court, centre:mk, MK9 3EP
BAMBOO is a breathtaking outdoor circus show using only bamboo and human bodies.
The performers arrive at an empty stage, bringing with them bundles of sticks which unfold like giant trellises and form into towering sculptures six metres high.
The whole show becomes an animated circus installation with moments of beauty and poignancy, impressive feats of strength and agility and elements of physical comedy.
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
BAMBOO is a NoFit State production directed by Mish Weaver, in collaboration with Orit Azaz and Imagineer Productions.
Osadía:
Whose Hair Dares
Saturday 19 July, 10am-1pm Midsummer Place, MK9 3GB
Sunday 20 July, 11.30am-1pm & 2pm-3.30pm Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
The sculptural quality of hairdressing becomes theatre in the barber chairs of Osadía.
Dare to take a seat and have your own locks styled into an outlandish hair sculpture by Osadía’s performers. Or watch in amazement as your fellow audience members return from the barber chair transformed.
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
15ft6:
Les Patineurs
Saturday 19 July, 1pm & 4pm
Festival Square, MK9 3FN (outside Door 18, centre:mk)
Sunday 20 July, 1pm & 4pm
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Roll up and experience a gasp-inducing, hilarious and joyful battle on roller skates presented by 15ft6.
Combining impressive circus skills with the music of the Skaters’ Waltz, this show will delight audiences of all ages.
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Pagrav Dance: One Sky
Saturday 19 July, 1.15pm & 6pm
OneSky brings the spirit of India’s kite festivals to life, filling the sky with colour and joy.
Choreographed by Urja Desai Thakore with designer Simon Daw, this large-scale outdoor spectacle celebrates togetherness, happiness and the beauty of shared experience.
A central celebration of Pagrav Dance Company’s 20th anniversary and co-commissioned by the Festival and Sadler’s Wells, this is the largest outdoor production in the company’s history. FREE EVENT WORLD PREMIERE
Location
Campbell Park Bulbfield, Festival Central, MK9 4AT
Ages 4+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Model Kite Making Workshops
Saturday 19 July, 11am & 3.30pm
See page 55 for details.
Half A String: The Lost Colour and Space Chickens
Saturday 26 July, 11am & 3.20pm
Award-winning visual theatre company Half A String bring their brand of breathtaking puppetry, beautiful storytelling and original music to the Festival.
11am The Lost Colour… join Malcolm Brushell, professional painter and amateur alchemist, on his quest to find the pinky-est pink paint on the planet!
3.20pm Space Chickens… Earth’s unlikely hero: an adventurous chicken who is blasted into space to solve all our planet’s problems. Sounds ridiculous? Not for our heroic hen who will boldly go where no poultry has gone before...
Location
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Half A String Puppet Workshop Saturday 26 July, 12pm See page 59 for details.
Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare
FREE EVENT
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 July, 11.45am & 2.30pm
Joli Vyann’s beautiful duet is about the connection between two people, exploring the elements of strength and submission, weakness and control within their relationship.
An exciting mix of dance and partner acrobatics, this show has enthralled audiences of all ages all over the world.
Location
MK Rose, Campbell Park, MK9 3FT
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Location MK Rose, Campbell Park, MK9 3FT Ages 4+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Gandini Juggling & SAY
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 July, 1.15pm & 4pm
Two joyful and playful pieces performed one after another, combining dance, juggling and music…
Gandini Juggling: You Too Can Tutu
You Too Can Tutu is Gandini Juggling’s first-ever children’s show, blending the grace of ballet with the playful precision of juggling.
Colourful pointe shoes and hypercoloured balls dance together, forming mesmerising patterns and shapes in a joyful spectacle of movement and rhythm.
SAY: the album: skool edition
Celebrate the joy and innocence of making up dances to exciting new music in this interactive, outdoor dance show. Collaborating with music artists, SAY combine dynamic contemporary styles to create a slick and playful performance.
SAY Dance Workshop
Saturday 26 July, 10.15am
See page 59 for details
Gandini Juggling Workshop
Sunday 27 July, 10am
See page 59 for details
Sam Goodburn: Wire Attire
Sunday 27 July, 2pm & 4pm
A journey of one man’s quest to put on his clothes, eat biscuits and unicycle across a tight wire.
Sam Goodburn has spent countless hours trying to be funny – with his quick wit and biscuit tricks, it’s not difficult to prove to you that he is.
Thousands of audience members at festivals and stages around the world have been impressed by Sam’s skills and only a few found it odd that he is wearing a winter bobble hat on a beautiful summer’s day.
Location
FREE EVENT
Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, MK9 3XS Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Welcome to Festival Central
Campbell Park, Milton Keynes, nearest postcode MK9 4AT ///revealing.flood.baroness
Festival Central is open to everyone, so come and soak up the atmosphere! It’s home to The Stables Spiegeltent, the Acoustic Stage, an exciting programme of outdoor performances and free family events, food outlets, bars and the Festival box office.
Festival Central opening times:
Friday 18 July 1.30pm-11.30pm
Saturday 19 10.30am-11.30pm
Sunday 20 July 10.15am-11.30pm
Monday 21 —
Wednesday 23 July 5pm-11.30pm
Thursday 24 — Friday 25 July 10.30am-11.30pm
Saturday 26 July 9.45am-11.30pm
Sunday 27 July 9.45am-11.30pm
Welcome to
The Stables Spiegeltent Festival Central
Located at the heart of Festival Central, The Spiegeltent offers an exotic and intimate venue for the Festival’s live music, comedy and cabaret programme. Its stunning construction, featuring intricate wood, vibrant stained glass, plush velvet drapes and dazzling mirrors, creates a captivating atmosphere. Complete with its own bar, it’s a true Festival centrepiece.
Location Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT ///revealing.flood. baroness
Programme at a glance
The Noise Next Door:
Freewheeling
Friday 18 July
Yuck Circus
Friday 18 – Saturday 19 July
The Demon Barbers
Saturday 19 July
Lou Sanders
Sunday 20 July
A Night with La Voix
Monday 21 July
Le Vent du Nord
Tuesday 22 July
The Selecter
Wednesday 23 July
Peat & Diesel
Thursday 24 July
Lucy Spraggan
Friday 25 July
Cabaret of Ideas
Saturday 26 July
Roachford
Saturday 26 July
Ceilidh Liberation Front
Sunday 27 July
Family performances
Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall
Sunday 20 July
Scoot Theatre: Quentin Blake’s Mrs Armitage on Wheels
Thursday 24 July
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company: Rubbish Romeo and Juliet
Saturday 26 July
Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids
Sunday 27 July
The Spiegeltent Family Programme Partner
The Noise Next Door: Freewheeling
Friday 18 July, 6.45pm
No gimmicks, no tricks — just the UK’s quickest, wittiest improvisers putting on a show to make you laugh like nobody’s business.
The Noise Next Door are award-winning, 12-time sell-out legends of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and have blown audiences away on BBC One, ITV1 and Comedy Central as well as in comedy clubs and theatres all over the world.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£13.50
Ages 16+
Information
Performed in the round, unreserved seating
Linked ticket deal
Save £5 when you buy a ticket for The Noise Next Door and Yuck Circus in one transaction.
Yuck Circus
Friday 18 July, 8.45pm
Saturday 19 July, 2pm
Prepare to be amazed! Australia’s multi-award-winning Yuck Circus is hitting the Festival with a high-octane explosion of raw talent and unapologetic energy.
Forget everything you thought you knew about circus – this is a revolution. Expect jaw-dropping acrobatics, side-splitting comedy and a whole lot of attitude. Don’t miss the chance to witness this unforgettable, boundary-pushing performance.
Yuck Circus: Circus Skills Workshop
Sunday 20 July, 11.30am
£10
For 7-12 years, participants must be accompanied by an adult, who does not need a ticket. See page 56 for details.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£25 Ages 14+ (contains sexual references and adult themes). Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Performed in the round, unreserved seating
Linked ticket deals
Save when you buy a ticket for Yuck Circus and Freewheeling, or for Yuck Circus and The Demon Barbers. 37
The Demon Barbers
Saturday 19 July, 7.30pm
With multiple awards under their belts, including the BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Live Act, The Demon Barbers have captivated audiences across the UK and beyond.
Renowned for their electrifying fusion of traditional British folk music and high-energy dance, the band present a spectacular show to celebrate their 25th anniversary, featuring fresh new material alongside reimagined favourites from their acclaimed back catalogue.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £25 Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Unreserved seating, cabaret-style
Linked ticket deal Save £2.50 when you buy a ticket for The Demon Barbers and Yuck Circus in one transaction.
Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall
Sunday 20 July, 2.15pm
Why toddle when you can dance?
Join DJ Monski Mouse and her dancers for this award-winning, epic session of bopping, bonkers, beautiful fun. Expect high-energy smiling to retro beats and thumping nursery rhymes. Get your disco-dancing booties on!
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£12.50
Ages
For ages 5 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No more than two children per adult. All customers require a ticket. Babies under 6 months are eligible for a free ticket.
Information
All standing/dancing, with limited unreserved seating
Lou Sanders + support
Sunday 20 July, 8pm
Much-loved comedian and Taskmaster champion Lou Sanders comes to the Festival with an extended headline set!
Lou has toured her live shows to packed houses across the world and regularly receives rave reviews. She has also been named a top comedian to see by publications including The Guardian, The Scotsman, The List, The Mirror and the Evening Standard.
Lou will be joined by two other fantastic comedians on the night – visit the Festival website for details.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £25.50
Ages 16+
Information
Unreserved seating, cabaret-style
A Night with La Voix
+ support from Tori Scott
Monday 21 July, 8pm
Fresh from her appearance on RuPaul’s DragRaceUK, La Voix is ready to light up the Spiegeltent.
Join us for an intimate and glamour-filled evening that will leave you in awe. La Voix’s powerhouse vocals combined with side-splitting comedy guarantee an experience like no other. Get ready to be swept off your feet by the charm, talent and humour of this incredible performer.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £27.50
Ages 14+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Information Unreserved seating, cabaret-style
Le Vent du Nord
Tuesday 22 July, 8pm
Combining great stage presence with an energetic, dynamic flair, Le Vent du Nord are one of the leading names in Québecois folk music, performing original songs inspired from their tradition — it’s a truly fabulous sound!
The group never fail to delight audiences with their glorious mix of fiddle, guitar, accordion, piano, bass and hurdy-gurdy arrangements and wonderful four-part vocal harmonies.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £22 Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Unreserved seating, cabaret-style
The Selecter + support from Manny
Wednesday 23 July, 8pm
Led by the incomparable Pauline Black OBE, legendary 2-Tone pioneers The Selecter bring their infectious energy and iconic hits to The Spiegeltent.
Expect a night of pure ska brilliance filled with classics including On My Radio and Three Minute Hero. Don’t miss this chance to experience the vibrant sound that defined a generation.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £32 Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Standing/dancing, limited unreserved seating
Thursday 24 July, 11.30am & 1.30pm
When Mrs Armitage goes out for a ride with her trusty dog Breakspear, she decides her bicycle needs improvement.
With a new horn, a picnic hamper… and a sail, will Mrs Armitage manage to keep her bicycle in one piece or will her crazy contraption prove too much to handle?
In their lively stage adaptation of Quentin Blake’s classic tale, Scoot Theatre present a 40-minute interactive, energetic show featuring live music, puppetry and physical comedy celebrating the joy of getting outdoors and being active.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £13.50, under-16s £11
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Unreserved seating
Linked ticket deal Save £2.50 (adults) and £2 (under-16s) when you book a ticket for Mrs Armitage on Wheels and Rubbish Romeo and Juliet in one transaction.
Peat & Diesel
+ support from Fraser Morgan
Thursday 24 July, 8pm
Get ready to experience the raw, energetic and utterly unique sound of Peat & Diesel!
Straight from the heart of the Western Isles, they’re bringing their infectious ‘Peatlemania’ to Milton Keynes. Prepare for a night of unforgettable tunes, stories that’ll have you laughing and an atmosphere that’s pure, unadulterated craic.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £27.50
Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Standing/dancing, limited unreserved seating
Lucy Spraggan
+ support from Isabella Coulstock
Friday 25 July, 7.30pm
Singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan’s unique blend of folk, indie-pop and acoustic sounds paired with powerful and emotive lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide.
Lucy recently released her new single, Other Sides Of The Moon, with a studio album scheduled for later this year. This concert features brand new songs as well as some of her favourite tracks from the past 15 years, providing fans with a perfect mix of old and new Lucy.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£32
Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Standing/dancing, limited unreserved seating
Cabaret of Ideas
Saturday 26 July, 10am
For one morning only, you are invited to engage with a live speed-learning session featuring a line-up of fascinating thought leaders, experts and mavericks drawn from, or who have a strong connection with, Milton Keynes.
After being plied with coffee and pastry, the audience will lucky-dip from 15 candidates and pick four 20-minute conversations to have over the course of the event as people share their passions, thoughts, insights and revelations.
Who knows who you’ll meet?
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£6 (includes coffee and pastry)
Ages 14+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Unreserved seating
Knowledge Partner
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company presents
Rubbish Romeo and Juliet
Saturday 26 July, 2pm
Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, using only a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress and a burst airbed they found by the bins.
Described as ‘like Horrible Histories but funnier’ (Primary Times), the beloved Rubbish Shakespeare Company returns with a riotous family-friendly treat. Featuring clowning, slapstick and mischievous storytelling, this ‘side-splittingly funny’ (The List) production is a joyous introduction to Shakespeare –or even theatre itself!
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £13.50, under-16s £11
Ages 4+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Unreserved seating
Linked ticket deal
Save £2.50 (adults) and £2 (under-16s) when you book a ticket for Rubbish Romeo and Juliet and Mrs Armitage on Wheels.
Roachford + support from George Montague
Saturday 26 July, 7.30pm
Ever since Cuddly Toy reached number four in the charts back in 1988, Roachford has become one of the most compelling rock and soul artists the UK has produced.
He has released 10 studio albums and several greatest hits collections, been sought after as a songwriter by the likes of Michael Jackson, Joss Stone and Chaka Khan, and consistently toured on his own and with contemporaries including Terence Trent D’Arby and The Christians.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets
£31
Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Unreserved seating, cabaret style
Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids
Sunday 27 July, 2pm
Join world record-breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo (they/them) who makes amazing music with just a mouth and a mic and has performed across the globe with legends such as Björk, Ed Sheeran and Rudimental.
Anybody can become one of this sonic superhero’s sidekicks in a world of funny sounds, brilliant noises and cool music, whether they’re aged 1 or 101.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £13.50, under-16s £11
Ages 3+, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information Unreserved seating
Ceilidh Liberation Front
Sunday 27 July, 7.30pm
Join us for the Festival Wrap party as we say a huge thank-you to our volunteers and supporters.
The Ceilidh Liberation Front are made up of some of the UK’s finest folk musicians and charismatic callers. Combining music, dance and a sprinkling of theatrics, this is ceilidh music as you’ve never heard (or seen!) it before. Everyone’s welcome, it’s family friendly and no experience or knowledge of ceilidhs is necessary.
Location
The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Tickets £16.50
Ages Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Information
Standing/dancing, limited unreserved seating
The Stables Sessions: Acoustic Stage
Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July
Sessions that put a spotlight on new sounds, emerging talent and unsigned bands.
Enjoy a drink and listen to some great live music in the informal and relaxed atmosphere of our Kaya Bar Tent.
Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes. Suitable for all ages, but under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Friday 18 July
5.45pm Ben Jordan
8pm Tremaine Dawkins
Saturday 19 July 11.30am Smith & Brewer 1pm Amy Birks 3.30pm Octrain 4.30pm Ebony Buckle 6.30pm Blunden
Location
Festival Central, Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Sunday 20 July 12.15pm Lilac Fall 1.15pm Jinder 3.15pm Meg Wilson 4.15pm Sorrel Nation 5.15pm Isabella Coulstock 6.15pm Tom Duggan 7.15pm Manny
Monday 21 July
7pm
Tinkers Lane
Tuesday 22 July
7pm
Wayland Smithy
Wednesday 23 July
7pm
Inlak’esh
Friday 25 July
5.30pm Elizabeth & Jameson
6.30pm Harrison Bond
Saturday 26 July 1pm The Florist
3.30pm George Montague
4.30pm Navaro 5.30pm Natasha Seale 6.30pm SAJE
Sunday 27 July
11.45am Amit Dattani
3.30pm Wesson
4.30pm Sunsinger & the High Seas
5.30pm Dan Whitehouse
6.30pm Slowfade
The Stables Midsummer Sessions
Saturday 19 July
Come and enjoy some cool summer sounds at Midsummer Place, presented in association with The Stables. 1pm Ebony Buckle 2pm Smith & Brewer 3pm Manny
Discover more
Enjoy a programme of workshops, talks and tours exploring different themes of the Festival programme.
For events where pre-booking is advised, visit the Festival website at ifmiltonkeynes.org or call the Festival box office on 01908 280800.
You can find out more details about these events by visiting ifmiltonkeynes.org
Under-16s must be accompanied an adult.
Make and Take Dove-Making Workshops
Wednesday 3 – Sunday 27 July, 11am-3pm
Come and be inspired by Michael Pendry’s art-for-peace installation Les Colombes and make your own paper dove to take home with you. All materials provided.
The Symbolism of the Dove and the Meaning of Peace
Thursday 17 July, 5pm
An invited panel, including Festival artists Michael Pendry and Maureen Onwunali, explores the presence of symbolic art – specifically the dove – in secular, everyday spaces.
Dove Making and Peace Haiku Workshop
Friday 18 July, 3pm-6pm
Come and along and make your own paper dove and create a message of peace at the same time. All materials provided.
Information
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
Free, no booking required 8+
Information Middleton Hall, centre:mk
Free, no booking required 10+
Information
Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 8+
Behind The Scenes Lab Tours
Friday 18 July at 3pm & 5pm and Saturday 19 July at 1pm & 3pm
Get an exclusive behind the scenes look at the world-leading laboratories used by The Open University to explore space.
Unlocking the Secrets of Space
Friday 18 July, 7pm
Discover the groundbreaking space research happening at The Open University. Engage with a panel of space experts and explore the future of space exploration right here in Milton Keynes.
Model Kite-making Workshop
Saturday 19 July, 11am-1pm & 3.30pm-5.30pm
Join us for a joyful, hands-on craft experience where festival-goers of all ages can design their very own model kites, inspired by Pagrav Dance’s new production One Sky.
Interactive Harmony and Songwriting
Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 July, 11am & 3pm
Led by Dr Simon Holland and Dr Paul Mulholland, this is a harmony and songwriting workshop for all comers using interactive tools created by the OU’s Music Computing Lab.
Information
Meet at Berrill Building, The Open University
Free, booking advised 6+
Information
Berrill Building, The Open University
Free, booking advised 16+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 7+
Information
The Hub Theatre, The Open University
Free, booking advised 12+
Space: Missions, Mysteries and Meteorites
Saturday 19 July, 12pm-6pm
Get hands-on and experience how Earth’s environments mimic those on Mars, hold real meteorites, and discover what it takes to live on the Moon.
The Making of Mars: Where Art Meets Science
Saturday 19 July, 2pm
Explore the fascinating world of acclaimed artist Luke Jerram as he reveals the secrets behind sculpting viruses, the moon and diatoms with astonishing accuracy.
12 Years and Counting: Curiosity on Mars
Saturday 19 July, 6pm
The NASA Curiosity rover has been exploring Gale Crater on Mars since 2012. Join The Open University’s Professor Susanne Schwenzer to follow Curiosity’s journey from Bradbury Landing to the ascent of Mt. Sharp.
Writing Workshop
Sunday 20 July, 10.30am-11.30am
Led by Jennie Owen from The Open University, this writing place workshop encourages participants to draw on the history, future, community and landscape of Milton Keynes.
Yuck Circus Workshop
Sunday 20 July, 11.30am-12.30pm
With acrobatics, hand balancing, skipping, and circus games, this fun workshop is perfect for any beginner. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable loose clothing.
Information
Berrill Building, The Open University
Free, no booking required All ages
Information
Berrill Building, The Open University
Free, booking advised 10+
Information
Berrill Building,
The Open University
Free, booking advised 10+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 16+
Information
The Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
£10, booking advised For ages 7-12
We Make Milton Keynes
Sunday 20 July, 12.30pm-2pm
Led by Dr Keetie Roelen from The Open University and in collaboration with Community Action: MK, this is an opportunity to find out more about their Poverty in Milton Keynes research project.
Mars: A World Record
Sunday 20 July, 2pm
Join Elliot Sefton-Nash, a planetary scientist at the European Space Agency (ESA), to learn how the surface of Mars is the compound result of billions of years of processes that have shaped its surface.
Rootedness: Writing Home and Belonging
Sunday 20 July, 3pm-4.15pm
Led by Dr Wanda O’Connor from The Open University, and taking inspiration from Kamchàtka’s Fugit, this poetry writing workshop invites participants to explore belonging and rootedness.
The Art of Scribbling Workshop
Thursday 24 July, 12.30pm-1.30pm & 2.30pm-3.30pm
Illustrator and artist Mike Young will take you on a journey, learning The Art of Scribbling from making a mess to creating your very own portrait fridge magnet to take away!
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 16+
Information
Berrill Building, The Open University
Free, booking advised 13+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 16+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
£3 with Mrs Armitage on Wheels ticket, £5 without, booking advised 6+
What Is Your Story?
Comics Co-creation Workshop
Friday 25 July, 11am-12pm
Led by Professor Sarah Crafter from The Open University and illustrator Kremena Dimitrova, this workshop uses comics to visualise our place in the world.
Dove Animation: Robin Clements
Friday 25 July, 1pm-7pm
An interactive community-powered animation that invites festival-goers to take part in creating a large-scale animated sequence of doves in flight, in response to Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes.
Our World In Crisis
Friday 25 July, 1.30pm
Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring the intersection of climate change, conflict and the natural environment. The panel will include Festival artist Mark Anderson.
Climate World Cafe Event: Conversations for Change
Friday 25 July, 2.30pm-4pm
Facilitated by Dr Trudi Macagnino and Dr Stacey Heath from The Open University, this world cafe event will discuss climate change, exploring emotional responses, societal impacts, and personal experiences.
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 5+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 5+
Information
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 10+
Information
The VIP Green Room, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 16+
SAY: Dance Workshop
Saturday 26 July, 10.15am-11.45am
This workshop will consist of a short, upbeat warm-up followed by teaching a section of repertoire from SAY’s Festival production the album: skool edition.
Warning Notes: Sound Workshop
Saturday 26 July, 11am-3pm
A sound exploration and design workshop that takes a deep dive into the creation and themes of Warning Notes led by Ezra Gray, Audio Engineer and Sound Artist.
Half A String Puppet Workshop
Saturday 26 July, 12pm-1pm
Colour, cut and stick your way to a cheeky chicken finger-puppet that can strut its stuff and shake a feather tail! All materials will be provided.
Balancing Birds
Sunday 27 July, 10am-4pm
Inspired by Michael Pendry’s installation Les Colombes, this free family workshop invites you to make your own bird-themed model. All materials will be provided.
Gandini Juggling Workshop
Sunday 27 July, 10am-12pm
Come along and learn the basics of juggling in this fun, participatory workshop. Please wear comfortable, loose clothing and bring a water bottle.
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 8+
Information
Starts at 3rd Unit, YMCA, 1 North Sixth Street, MK9 2NR
£10, booking advised 13+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 4+
Information Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
Free, no booking required 5+
Information
The Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Free, booking advised 8+
Access events and tours
The Festival welcomes d/Deaf and disabled visitors.
The event pages on the Festival website provide you with access information about each event. Please visit ifmiltonkeynes.org
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Email: access@stables.org Tel: 01908 280800
British Sign Language (BSL) and Audio-Described Performances
Michael Pendry: The Symbolism of the Dove
British Sign Language Interpreted
Thursday 17 July, 5pm-5.45pm Middleton Hall, centre:mk
Live panel discussion before a community preview of Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes.
Luke Jerram: The Making of Mars, Where Art Meets Science
British Sign Language Interpreted
Saturday 19 July, 2pm-3pm
The Open University, Berrill Building, Kents Hill, MK7 6AA Live panel discussion
Transe Express: DNA Vertical Odyssey
For people who are blind or visually impaired
VocalEyes Pre-show Touch Tour & Live Audio Description
Saturday 26 July
Secklow Gate D3 Car Park, near The Point, central Milton Keynes.
8.45pm Touch Tour (free, but tickets must be booked in advance)
9.45pm Performance with Live Audio Description (£7.50)
Assistance dogs welcome.
Inclusion Partner
Tours and workshops
Tickets for the following events are free but must be booked in advance.
VocalEyes Audio Described Guided Tour
For people who are blind or visually impaired
Tuesday 22 July, 10.30am-1pm
Tour starts: Church of Christ the Cornerstone, MK9 2ES
Tour ends: Middleton Hall, centre:mk
The tour visits Luke Jerram’s Mars and Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes, and includes a short origami dove-making workshop.
Assistance dogs welcome.
British Sign Language (BSL) Tour led by Deaf Guide John Wilson
Sunday 27 July, 2pm-4.30pm
Tour starts: Church of Christ the Cornerstone, MK9 2ES
Tour ends: Middleton Hall, centre:mk
The tour visits Luke Jerram’s Mars and Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes, and includes a short origami dovemaking workshop.
More access information
You can download the IF: 2025 Access Guide from the Festival website.
It includes information on all events, BSL and Audio Described Performances and Guided Tours.
You can also download the IF: 2025 Easy Read Guide, BSL Video Guide and VocalEyes
Audio Description Guide.
Diary A guide to each day of the Festival
Should bad weather affect the staging of outdoor events, the Festival will make every effort to reschedule or relocate the programme.
Please follow the Festival on social media @IFMKfest for updates.
All end times are approximate.
From Thursday 3 to Sunday 27 July, there will be free paper dove making workshops taking place daily between 11am and 3pm in Middleton Hall in centre:mk.
Thursday 17 July
5pm-5.45pm Talk: The Symbolism of the Dove Middleton Hall, centre:mk
Friday 18 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-9pm Luke Jerram: Mars The Open University
12pm-12.45pm Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk Queen’s Court, centre:mk
1pm-1.40pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Unity Place
2pm-3pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
2.45pm-3.30pm Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk Queen’s Court, centre:mk
3pm-4pm Lab Tour The Open University
3pm-6pm Dove Making & Peace Haiku Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
4pm-7pm Tombs Creatius: Xics del Xurrac Festival Central, Campbell Park
4pm-7pm Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise Festival Central, Campbell Park
4.15pm-4.55pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Festival Central, Campbell Park
5pm-5.45pm NoFit State: Bamboo
Campbell Park Bulbfield
5pm-6pm Lab Tour The Open University
5.45pm-6.30pm Ben Jordan
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
6pm-7pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
6.45pm-7.45pm The Noise Next Door
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
7pm-8pm Talk: Unlocking the Secrets of Space The Open University
8pm-8.45pm Tremaine Dawkins
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
8.45pm-9.35pm Yuck Circus Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
9.30pm-10.10pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Festival Central, Campbell Park
9.45pm Deabru Beltzak: Symfeuny
Xscape/Campbell Park Bulbfield
Saturday 19 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-9pm Luke Jerram: Mars
The Open University
10am-1pm Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise Midsummer Place
10am-1pm Osadía: Whose Hair Dares Midsummer Place
11am-5pm Tombs Creatius: Xics del Xurrac
Festival Central, Campbell Park
11am-1pm Model Kite Making Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
11am-12pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
11am-12pm Interactive Harmony & Songwriting Workshop The Open University
11.30am12.15pm Smith & Brewer
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
12pm-12.40pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Festival Square
12pm-6pm Space: Missions, Mysteries and Meteorites The Open University
12.15pm-1pm NoFit State: Bamboo Festival Central, Campbell Park
12:45pm-1.30pm Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk Community Performance Unity Place
1pm-1.30pm 15ft6: Les Patineurs Festival Square
1pm-1.40pm Midsummer Sessions: Ebony Buckle Midsummer Place
1pm-1.45pm Amy Birks Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
1pm-2pm Lab Tour The Open University
1.15pm-2pm Pagrav Dance: One Sky Campbell Park Bulbfield
2pm-2.50pm Yuck Circus Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
2pm-3pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
2pm-3pm Talk: The Making of Mars, Where Art Meets Science The Open University
2pm-5pm Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise Midsummer Place
2pm-2.40pm Midsummer Sessions: Smith & Brewer Midsummer Place
3pm-3.40pm Midsummer Sessions: Manny Midsummer Place
3pm-3.40pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Festival Square
3pm-4pm Interactive Harmony & Songwriting Workshop The Open University
3pm-4pm Lab Tour The Open University
3.15pm-4pm NoFit State: Bamboo Festival Central, Campbell Park
3.30pm-5.30pm Model Kite Making Workshops Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
3.30pm-4.15pm Zwermers: Pan~//Catwalk Community Performance Unity Place
3.30pm-4.15pm Octrain Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
4pm-4.30pm 15ft6: Les Patineurs Festival Square
4.30pm-5.15pm Ebony Buckle Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
5.15pm-5.55pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Festival Central, Campbell Park
6pm-6.45pm Pagrav Dance: One Sky Campbell Park Bulbfield
6pm-7pm Talk: 12 Years and Counting, Curiosity on Mars
6.30pm-7.15pm Blunden
The Open University
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
7.30pm The Demon Barbers Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Sunday 20 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-4pm Luke Jerram: Mars The Open University
10.30am11.30am Writing MK Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
11am-5pm Tombs Creatius: Xics del Xurrac
Festival Central, Campbell Park
11am-2pm Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise Festival Central, Campbell Park
11am-12pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
11am-12pm Interactive Harmony & Songwriting Workshop The Open University
11.15am -11.55am Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Queen’s Court, centre:mk
11.30am-1pm Osadía: Whose Hair Dares
Festival Central, Campbell Park
11.30am12.30pm Yuck Circus: Circus Skills Workshop Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
12pm-12.45pm NoFit State: Bamboo
12.15pm-1pm Lilac Fall
Queens Court, centre:mk
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
12.30pm-2pm We Make Milton Keynes Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
1pm-1.30pm 15ft6: Les Patineurs Festival Central, Campbell Park
1.15pm-2pm Jinder
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
2pm-3pm Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Campbell Park Copse
2pm-3pm Talk: Mars: A World Record The Open University
2pm-3.30pm Osadia: Whose Hair Dares Festival Central, Campbell Park
2.15pm-3pm Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
2.15pm-2.55pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Queens Court, centre:mk
3pm-6pm Working Boys Club: Noisy Noise Noise Festival Central, Campbell Park
3pm-3.45pm NoFit State: Bamboo Queen’s Court, centre:mk
3pm-4pm Interactive Harmony & Songwriting Workshop The Open University
3pm-4.15pm Rootedness – Poetry Writing Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
3.15pm-4pm Meg Wilson Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
4pm-4.40pm Working Boys Club: Serving Sounds Queens Court, centre:mk
4pm-4.30pm 15ft6: Les Patineurs Festival Central, Campbell Park
4.15pm-5pm Sorrel Nation Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
5.15pm-6pm Isabella Coulstock
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
6.15pm-7pm Tom Duggan Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
7.15pm-8pm Manny Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
8pm Lou Sanders Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Monday 21 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes Middleton Hall, centre:mk
3pm-8pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
7pm-7.45pm Tinkers Lane
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
8pm A Night with La Voix Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Tuesday 22 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Middleton Hall, centre:mk 10am-8pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
10.30am-1pm VocalEyes Audio Described Guided Touch Tour Starts Church of Christ the Cornerstone
7pm-7.45pm Wayland Smithy
8pm Le Vent du Nord
Wednesday 23 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-8pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
7pm-7.45pm Inlak'esh
8pm The Selecter
Thursday 24 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
11am-4.30pm Architects of Air: Terceradix Campbell Park Bulbfield
11.30am12.10pm Scoot Theatre: Quentin Blake's Mrs Armitage on Wheels
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
12.30pm-1.30pm The Art of Scribbling Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park 1pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
1.30pm-2.10pm Scoot Theatre: Quentin Blake's Mrs Armitage on Wheels
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
2.30pm-3.30pm The Art of Scribbling Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
6pm-10pm Mark Anderson: Warning Notes Fred Roche Gardens
7pm-8pm Maureen Onwunali: Utopia in Verse – A Poetry Jam
Terceradix, Campbell Park Bulbfield
7.30pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
8pm Peat & Diesel Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
8.30pm-10.30pm Gijs van Bon: Nyx MK Rose
Friday 25 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-12.30pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
11am-7pm Architects of Air: Terceradix Campbell Park Bulbfield
11am-6pm Tania El Khoury: Memory of Birds Campbell Park Copse
11am-12pm What Is Your Story? Comics Co-Creation Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
1pm-7pm Dove Animation Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
1pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
1.30pm-2.15pm Talk: Our World in Crisis Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
2.30pm-4pm Climate World Café The VIP Green Room, Campbell Park
5.30pm-6.15pm Elizabeth & Jameson Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
6pm-10pm Mark Anderson: Warning Notes Fred Roche Gardens
6.30pm-7.15pm Harrison Bond Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
7.30pm Ensemble Augelletti: The Morning Star Church of Christ the Cornerstone
7.30pm Lucy Spraggan Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
7.30pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
8.30pm-10.30pm Gijs van Bon: Nyx Festival Square
9.45pm Transe Express: DNA, Vertical Odyssey Secklow Gate D3 Car Park
Saturday 26 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-4pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
10am-11.30am Cabaret of Ideas
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
10.15am11.45am SAY Dance Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
11am-7pm Architects of Air: Terceradix
Campbell Park Bulbfield
11am-6pm Tania El Khoury: Memory of Birds Campbell Park Copse 11am- 3pm Warning Notes: Sound Workshop YMCA
11am-11.25am Half A String: The Lost Colour
11.45am12.15pm Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare
Festival Central, Campbell Park
MK Rose
12pm-1pm Half A String Puppet Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
1pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
1pm-1.45pm The Florist
1.15pm-2.10pm Gandini Juggling & SAY
2pm-3pm The Rubbish Shakespeare Co.: Rubbish Romeo and Juliet
2.30pm-3pm Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare
3.20pm-3.45pm Half A String: Space Chickens
3.30pm-4.15pm George Montague
4pm-4.50pm Gandini Juggling & SAY
4.30pm-5.15pm Navaro
5.30pm-6.15pm Natasha Seale
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
MK Rose
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
MK Rose
Festival Central, Campbell Park
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
MK Rose
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
6pm-10pm Mark Anderson: Warning Notes Fred Roche Gardens
6.30pm-7.15pm SAJE
7pm-9pm Luke Jerram: Mars
7.30pm Roachford
Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
Church of Christ the Cornerstone
Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
7.30pm Kamchàtka: Fugit Wolverton
9.45pm Transe Express: DNA, Vertical Odyssey Secklow Gate D3 Car Park
Sunday 27 July
10am-11pm Michael Pendry: Les Colombes Middleton Hall, centre:mk
10am-12pm Gandini Juggling Workshop Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
10am-4pm Balancing Birds Workshop Workshop Tent, Campbell Park
11am-7pm Architects of Air: Terceradix Campbell Park Bulbfield
11am-4pm Tania El Khoury: Memory of Birds Campbell Park Copse
11.45am12.15pm Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare MK Rose
11.45am12.30pm Amit Dattani Acoustic Stage
1.15pm-2.10pm Gandini Juggling & SAY MK Rose
2pm-6pm Luke Jerram: Mars Church of Christ the Cornerstone
2pm-4.30pm British Sign Language (BSL) Tour Starts Church of Christ the Cornerstone
2pm-3pm Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
2pm-2.45pm Sam Goodburn: Wire Attire Xscape
2.30pm-3pm Joli Vyann: Drop Me If You Dare MK Rose
3.30pm-4.15pm Wesson Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
4pm-4.50pm Gandini Juggling & SAY MK Rose
4pm-4.45pm Sam Goodburn: Wire Attire Xscape
4.30pm-5.15pm Sunsinger & the High Seas Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
5.30pm-6.15pm Dan Whitehouse Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
6.30pm-7.15pm Slowfade Acoustic Stage, Campbell Park
7.30pm Ceilidh Liberation Front Spiegeltent, Campbell Park
Paz Errázuriz: Dare to Look
Saturday 19 July – Saturday 5 October 2025
This first solo UK exhibition by Chilean photographer Paz Errázuriz (b. 1944) presents over 170 works in colour and black and white from the 1970s to the present day. Often working in series, her photographs include men and women in psychiatric institutions, Trans communities, sex workers, homeless people and the Kawésqar, an indigenous community under threat.
Exhibition organised by Colecciones Fundación MAPFRE in collaboration with MK Gallery.
Milton Keynes Fringe Festival
Friday 4 July – Sunday 27 July 2025
Milton Keynes Fringe Festival is the city’s biennial arts event showcasing emerging artists. This multi-platform event presents innovative and exciting exhibitions, performances, music, experimental sound and installations.
Location
Milton Keynes Gallery, 900 Midsummer
Boulevard, MK9 3QA Information mkgallery.org
Location
Venues across Milton Keynes Information mkfringefestival.com
How to book tickets
The Stables Box Office
By phone: 01908 280800
In person: The Stables Box Office, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU
Please visit stables.org for opening hours.
Box offices at Festival sites
Middleton Hall, centre:mk
Open Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July, 10.30am–5.30pm each day (in–person bookings only)
Festival Central at Campbell Park, Milton Keynes
Open Friday 18 – Sunday 27 July (in-person bookings only)
Friday 18 July: from 1.30pm
Saturday 19 July: from 10.30am
Sunday 20 July: from 10.15am
Monday 21 – Wednesday 23 July: from 5pm
Thursday 24 – Friday 25 July: from 10.30am
Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 July: from 9.45am
The Festival Central Box office closes approximately 15 minutes after the final show of the day has begun.
Booking information
Concessions and discounts
All concessions and discounts are offered subject to availability on a fixed allocation basis and vary according to individual events.
Discounts cannot be combined with other offers, or applied retrospectively, and can be withdrawn at any time.
If you have access requirements, please contact the box office on 01908 280800 or email access@stables.org
Booking fees
Prices published in this brochure include all booking fees.
Latecomers
Latecomers may be admitted at a suitable break in the performance for most events – this is at the discretion of the Festival, and for some events is not possible. No refunds will be given to latecomers who cannot be admitted.
Ticket sales
IF: Milton Keynes International Festival box offices are managed and operated by The Stables. All tickets are sold subject to our Terms and Conditions, available at stables.org, and any event-specific information provided.
1. Unity Place, 200 Grafton Gate, MK9 1UP ///partly.inviting.myths
2. Fred Roche Gardens, 406 Silbury Boulevard, MK9 2ND ///trickster.cracking.cocktail
3. Church of Christ the Cornerstone, 300 Saxon Gate, MK9 2ES ///charities.prove. replayed
4. Midsummer Place, MK9 3GB ///daredevil.stance.enhanced
5. Secklow Gate D3 Car Park (near The Point), MK9 3EP ///ratty.smile.loaders
6. Queen’s Court, centre:mk, Silbury Boulevard, MK9 3AG ///verbs.sponsors.importing
7. Middleton Hall, centre:mk: (shopping centre). Enter via Doors 11 or 13 North on Silbury Arcade and 12 or 14 South on Midsummer Arcade, MK9 3EP ///canoe. newspaper.silks Box Office and information: Middleton Hall, centre:mk
8. Festival Square, MK9 3FN (outside Door 18 centre:mk) ///latches.revived.ambushed
9. Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, MK9 3XS ///attention.visa.massing
10. Campbell Park: nearest postcode MK9 4AT ///cleansed.blacken.rear
11. Campbell Park Bulbfield ///flows.plants.heaven 12. Milton Keynes Rose ///washroom.blip.trickles 13. Box Office and Information
Campbell Park Copse ///trombone.twinkled.showcases
The Open University Walton Hall Milton Keynes
MK7 6AA
1. Mars by Luke Jerram ///improving.scuba.bunk
2. Berrill Building, Milton Keynes MK7 6BB ///united.darker.common
3. The HUB Theatre ///wiring.bound.guilty
Key
P Parking B Bus stop
The Open University campus is four miles from the centre of Milton Keynes, with plenty of car-parking available. If you are travelling by car, please use the Brickhill Street Entrance to the campus.
For details of bus services to The Open University, visit open.ac.uk and search for Bus Services.
Milton Keynes has a comprehensive network of pedestrian and cycling routes called Redways, and many connect to the Open University campus. Visit getaroundmk.org.uk for more details.
Temporary site info
Festival Central: Campbell Park, MK9 4AT
Car parking: Available in city centre car parks. Limited Blue Badge parking available at Festival Central, off Avebury Boulevard (opposite Columbia Place), with the nearest drop–off point also here.
Cycle parking: Available in the city and at Festival Central, as well as at other Festival sites, including Fred Roche Gardens and the Open University.
By bus: Please visit the Arriva bus website arrivabus.co.uk/beds-and-bucks/bustravel-in-milton-keynes
On foot: Campbell Park lies at the far east of centre:mk, linked to the city centre by footbridges and via the underpass near Hotel La Tour and MK Gallery.
Access: There is a good network of allweather paths in Campbell Park. Every effort will be made to create level access on site. Accessible toilets are located in Festival Central.
The Stables Spiegeltent: Accessible to wheelchair users with ramped access into the venue and onto the dance floor. Where events are billed as ‘all standing/ dancing with limited unreserved seating’, please seek advice from the Box Office on 01908 280800 or email access@stables. org at time of booking if you have specific mobility requirements. The Spiegeltent has an infra–red induction loop system.
Acoustic Stage: Has an infra–red induction loop system.
Fred Roche Gardens: 406 Silbury Boulevard, MK9 2ND
Every effort will be made to create level access on site with additional temporary trackways.
Accessible toilets will be available.
Campbell Park, Fred Roche Gardens and Secklow Gate D3 Car Park
No pets please, only registered assistance dogs are permitted.
Camping and BBQs are not permitted. No glass bottles or alcohol purchased off site are permitted on site.
Alcohol purchased at Festival Central is not permitted into the wider Campbell Park area.
Festival stewards, First Aiders and other services are on site to help you – please approach them if you have any questions. Stay safe, be sensible – enjoy your visit!
Photography and filming
Festival events will be filmed and photographed for publicity purposes.
By entering Festival sites, you agree to these guidelines.
Information in this brochure is correct at time of going to print. The Festival reserves the right to make alterations if necessary.
For latest Festival information, visit ifmiltonkeynes.org and follow @IFMKfest #IFKMfest on social media.
01908 280800
Show your support for the Festival!
Being able to meet costs to achieve all of the Festival’s ambitions while keeping events accessibly priced or free to attend is a constant challenge. This can only be made possible through vital support from individuals, business partners and charitable trusts.
Business support
The Festival team works collaboratively with its Partners to ensure that packages and benefits are tailored to reflect sponsorship, marketing, CSR and ESG objectives.
Innovation Founders
Innovation Founders play a crucial role in making possible exciting new projects and commissions that make our Festival unique.
Friends of the Festival
Becoming a Friend of the Festival is a great way to support and champion this special event. Visit ifmiltonkeynes.org for more information.
Innovation Founders 2025
Pioneers: Dame Ann Limb DBE DL,McCann Family Charity
Adventurers: Penny and John Best, Ruth and Steve Hasson, Laura and Christian Keen, Steve, Louise and Olivia O’Hara, Lynette Ryals OBE, John and Francesca Skelton DL, Rupert and Milly Soames DL, Alison Stainsby, The Anson Charitable Trust
Explorers: Melanie Beck MBE DL and Walter Blairman, Monica Ferguson, Mary Hartley and Peter Hall, Nick and Pippa Kirkbride, John and Ursula Lewis, Marian Livingstone, Nicholas Mann, Paul and Moira North, Alan Oddie and Rachel Medill, Tim Roxburgh, Jacky and Colin Scott, Lord and Lady Scott, Gamiel Yafai
IF: Milton Keynes International Festival and The Stables are operating names of Wavendon Allmusic Plan, a registered charity in England and Wales (261645), which is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (00979681).
IF: 2025 Partners
IF: 2025 extends thanks to the many individuals, organisations and companies, staff and volunteers who work to make the Festival a success.
Produced by Supported by Headline Partner
Inclusion Partner Pop-up Events Partner
Event Partners
Event Partner Spiegeltent Family Event Partner VIP Green Room Partner
Partner Green Spaces Partner
Producing Partners Media Partners Festival Supporters
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