Reading and Leeds has confirmed more podcast names for its new Aux stage line-up ahead of the festival’s return next week.
The new stage was announced in May and is designed with the aim of showcasing “pioneering digital creators” and will, for the first time in R&L history, present a line-up of content creators in a bid to highlight “some of today’s most popular and culturally relevant personalities and providing a new platform in the live sector”. It will host live podcasts, interactive talks and livestreams, as well as tune into the current media landscape.
The first names were confirmed in July, including Chunkz & Filly Show, The Useless Hotline, Bradley Simpson: Unplugged, Arthur Hill: Unplugged, Gym Girl’s Locker Room, Goes Without Saying Podcast, Dork: Down With Boring and Fan Girl Files.
Now, more names have been added to the Aux line-up. They include The Charvas, Things I Wish My Mum Told Me, Sophie Butler, Cami Sophia: With Intention, Simply Saz: Breath and Beats, Girls Know Nothing, Spill The Sound, Voice Notes With Jordan Theresa and Jack Edwards.
The Aux is not the only new stage at Reading and Leeds this year. Earlier this year, R&L boss Melvin Benn spoke to NME about a “groundbreaking” new stage for 2024: The Chevron. Bringing an end to the two main stage format of recent years, the venue will host bill-topping performances from The Prodigy, Sonny Fodera and Skrillex.
Speaking to NME in February, R&L’s Melvin Benn explained: “We can present different genres very comfortably, and dance, hip-hop, pop and UK grime needs that home. The Chevron can do that.”
He continued: “Effectively, we have a video mesh roof that will be all-encompassing and give the artist an opportunity to create in a way that they haven’t done in the past – and not just the headliners.”
When asked what festivalgoers can expect from Chevron headliners The Prodigy and Skrillex, Benn responded: “I expect the kitchen sink to be thrown at it. For me, I wanted The Prodigy to present in a way that was different.
“They’re back playing live in a manner that is just awesome, and fans will just lap that up. For me, it’s an opportunity for them to shine in a way they haven’t before – even when they’ve headlined Reading & Leeds. This video roof will just be an extraordinary addition.”
The twin-site event is due to take place between August 21-25, with Blink-182, Fred Again.. and Liam Gallagher all headlining. Other big acts include Lana Del Rey, Catfish & The Bottlemen, Gerry Cinnamon, Raye, Fontaines D.C. and 21 Savage.
You can find any remaining tickets for this year’s festivals here (Reading) and here (Leeds).