Major New Acts Announced for Bearded Theory 2026
The award-winning Bearded Theory festival has unveiled its second wave of artists for the 2026 event, significantly bolstering an already impressive bill. The latest additions to the line-up include the iconic alt-rock band Garbage, Irish country-pop sensation CMAT, and the brilliantly outspoken Kate Nash.
These new names join the previously announced headliners, Pixies and Skunk Anansie, making the 2026 edition one of the most anticipated independent festivals of the summer. The event is scheduled to take place at its regular home, Catton Park in Derbyshire, from 20 to 24 May 2026.
An Eclectic Mix of Music Icons and Rising Stars
The second announcement brings a diverse range of musical talent to the Derbyshire countryside. Garbage, fronted by the charismatic Shirley Manson, will bring their influential blend of grunge and electronic alt-rock to the stage. Their performance will support their 2025 album, 'Let All That We Imagine Be The Light', which Manson has described as a move towards optimism and creativity.
Meanwhile, CMAT is set to light up the festival with her witty country-pop anthems, fresh from the success of her late 2025 album 'EURO-COUNTRY' and her biggest headline tour to date. Kate Nash will showcase her artistic evolution, performing a mix of her classic platinum-selling hits and her newer, more theatrical punk-pop material.
A Full Festival Experience
Beyond the latest additions, the festival boasts a remarkably broad line-up. Attendees can also look forward to sets from pioneering UK punks The Damned, Mercury Prize-winning artist Badly Drawn Boy, and the iconic poet and performer Kae Tempest.
The bill is further strengthened by Scottish indie-rockers Idlewild, dance legends EMF and Peter Hook and The Light, drum and bass icon Goldie, and even comedian Stewart Lee. This carefully curated mix promises a truly eclectic and independent festival experience.
Weekend tickets for Bearded Theory 2026 are currently on sale via the festival's official website. For those looking to spread the cost, a Payment Plan is available, allowing you to pay in monthly instalments until May 2026. An adult weekend ticket, for example, can be secured for approximately £42.50 per month based on the fourth release price of £255.00.
