Bearded Theory has revealed its first major lineup for 2027, with Public Enemy, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls and Hot Chip among the biggest announced acts.

The independent festival returns to Catton Park in Derbyshire from 26–30 May 2027.

Its first lineup wave contains around 60 artists spanning alternative rock, punk, indie, hip-hop, electronic music and reggae.

The announcement arrived in early November. Return to Sound+1

Who is playing Bearded Theory 2027?

The biggest names include Public Enemy, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Hot Chip, Super Furry Animals, The Interrupters and Westside Cowboy.

Also confirmed are Bob Vylan, Black Flag, Bob Mould, Steel Pulse, The Wonder Stuff, Sea Power, Goldie, Dream Wife, Lime Garden, Man/Woman/Chainsaw, This Is The Kit and Antony Szmierek.

Other artists include The Chameleons, The Lovely Eggs, The Meffs, Utah Saints, The Rezillos, Dub Pistols, Phil Hartnoll and Leeroy Thornhill.

The lineup is deliberately eclectic.

Public Enemy headline the festival

Public Enemy provide one of the festival’s most influential bookings.

The American group helped reshape hip-hop during the late 1980s and early 1990s through politically charged songwriting and innovative production.

Their albums It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back and Fear of a Black Planet remain hugely influential.

Songs including Fight the Power and Bring the Noise have become some of hip-hop’s most recognisable recordings.

Frank Turner secures a UK festival exclusive

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls are another major attraction.

Their headline appearance is billed as a UK festival exclusive for 2027.

Turner has developed a large and loyal following through his combination of folk, punk and rock, making him a natural fit for Bearded Theory’s independent and community-focused identity.

Hot Chip and Super Furry Animals add alternative music history

Hot Chip provide a major electronic booking, with a catalogue blending indie pop and dance music.

Super Furry Animals bring another important part of British alternative music history.

The Welsh group have long been recognised for their adventurous approach to songwriting, production and psychedelia.

The Interrupters, Black Flag and Bob Vylan add significantly heavier punk influences to the programme.

When is Bearded Theory 2027?

Bearded Theory takes place from Wednesday 26 May through Sunday 30 May 2027 at Catton Park, Walton-on-Trent, Derbyshire.

The programme begins with early performances on Wednesday, including The Chameleons, before the main weekend continues.

More artists and stage schedules are expected.

Official website: Bearded Theory