Madness return to Canterbury this summer for a huge outdoor show at the iconic St Lawrence Ground, Kent Cricketon Sunday 9th August, bringing their unmistakable energy, unrivalled showmanship and one of the most celebrated catalogues in British music. With gates opening from 2pm, expect a full afternoon and evening of festival vibes and anthems in the heart of Kent.
Formed in Camden Town, North London, in 1976, Madness rose to fame as one of the defining bands of the two-tone ska revival, blending ska, pop and new wave with humour and distinctly British storytelling. Over their long career, the band have enjoyed enormous success, achieving 15 UK Top-10 singles including One Step Beyond, Baggy Trousers, It Must Be Love, and their No. 1 hit House of Fun. In November 2023, they released their thirteenth studio album, Theatre of the Absurd Presents C’est La Vie – their first in seven years and their first ever UK No. 1 studio album. More than four decades on, Madness remains a beloved institution, still touring, recording and bringing their signature energy to audiences new and old. Their headline set in Canterbury promises a celebration of timeless hits.
They’ll be joined by very special guests Cast, fresh from touring as part of the Oasis Live 25 celebrations and known for massive Britpop anthems including Walkaway, Alright and Finetime. Also joining the bill are ska legends The Beat ft. Ranking Jr, bringing classics such as Mirror in the Bathroom, Hands Off… She’s Mine and Too Nice To Talk To, alongside The Ordinary Boys, best known for indie favourites including Boys Will Be Boys, Talk Talk Talk and Nine2Five.
The line-up also features rising south coast trio ffogg, whose sound blends indie, rock, pop, jazz and Latin influences, plus The Now and more artists still to be announced.
Age restrictions: 6+. All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult (aged 21 or over). No unaccompanied under 18s are allowed on site.
We provide a wide range of facilities for those with access requirements. Please read the following information carefully to familiarize yourself with what is available:
- Free Personal Assistant ticket (if required)
- Entrance queue jump
- Raised viewing platform – now at full capacity (Please note that seating is not reserved and is allocated on a first come first served basis on arrival in the accessible areas.)
- Lowered Bar Counters
- Accessible toilets
- Welfare tent refrigeration and charging
- There is no blue badge parking at this event.
Closer to the event there will be an Accessible Pack available for download that will include the following details:
- Travel information and getting to site
- Event Facilities
- Site Map that shows the accessible facilities
- Details on the site and expected terrain
For any other question or enquiries please contact: accessability@canterburylive.uk
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