On the music front, we are already very busy booking and preparing what we hope will be the most exciting Wychwood line-up ever, and the first of these artists going into our Wychwood Mix will be Port Isaac's Fisherman's Friends- shanty singers from Port Isaac who have delighted visitors and locals for more than 15 years, with almost 300 live performances under their belts. They've known each other since childhood and learnt their powerful brand of Cornish harmony singing at the local Methodist chapel . And fisherman's friends they truly are - each and every member of this unique group are or have been fishermen, lifeboatmen and coastguards (as well as builders, artisans, hoteliers, and shop keepers) in Port Isaac. Their regular portside concerts have become a much-loved local institution and as the group prepare to release their first professional studio recordings, the authentic sound of the sea will soon be heard at Wychwood.


For 2012 we welcome back Johnny Kalsi, with his pride and joy, the mighty Dhol Foundation, the group that delivers a now legendary wall of sound, global rhythms and thumping contemporary beats with the effervescent Johnny at the heart of their live shows. The full stage show features an energetic batteria of dhols up front, bass, drums, guitar and dholak. Their musical influences are drawn from a rich pallet of global sounds and it's the openness to exploring the music of other cultures that has always set TDF apart from other Dhol groups.

 
We will also be welcoming Sean Lakeman and Kathryn Roberts; two of the folk scenes most accomplished performers, Kathryn and Sean have graced stages the world over in a number of guises, however, the intimacy and strength of passion shown as a duo, combined with an eclectic repertoire ensures a rare treat. With a story that includes music making with the likes of Seth Lakeman, Cara Dillon, Levellers, Kate Rusby and Show of Hands, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have established themselves as pillars of modern British folk.


Finally on the music front, we welcome back one of the most popular and most requested local acts from 2011, The Roving Crows; Formed in early 2009 The Crows' inexhaustible energy gives them standalone status in the up-surging live music scene, boasting fiery fiddle playing, trumpet, guitar, drums, bass and vocals. Described as completely unique and uncontainable, an original Celtic vibe, also drawing influences from genres including jazz, ska, folk, kleizmer and blues. An unbridled festival sound, Crow 'n' Roll."Just pure musical energy. Tight rhythms, great on-stage personality" Andrew Marston, BBC.

Over the coming months we'll have lots more to tell you about- our headliners for each day and the bands that will take pride of place across Wychwood's four stages.    
       
The Comedy Elves are already working their little socks off to make sure you laugh yours off in 2012. Our first piece of news is that Wychwood regular, Mr Robin Ince will be returning, and bringing with him a number of fabulous guests.

As well as being a performer in his own right, Robin has written extensively for television and radio. His credits include the BAFTA winning Have I Got News for You, Alastair McGowan's Big Impression, Graham Norton, 8 out of 10 Cats, Dead Ringers and a multitude of other shows. Robin is working on some very exciting ideas for us for 2012- watch this space!
 
As our regulars know, Wychwood is set up to be a weekend of fun for all the family; a place where adults and children alike can immerse themselves in a multitude of music and workshops, and dip in and out as they so desire. On the family front, expect the usual spread of over 100 workshops for all ages, and we have some very exciting first announcements for our children's entertainment in 2012.

First up we are delighted to welcome Cbeebies star Katy Ashworth. Katy is one of the main CBeebies presenters and is the host of popular series 'I Can Cook'. Katy will be appearing on Saturday at Wychwood, and there will be an opportunity to meet her afterwards.
 
Over the weekend, we are delighted that we'll be being entertained by stars of Nick Junior, The Bopps, namely Keith Littler and Stan Bopp. Keith has written and produced Little Red Tractor, Merlin the Magical Puppy, and Billy as well as directing over 100 series for children including Watership Down, Casper The Friendly Ghost and Albert the 5th Musketeer, and many others. Stan started life as guitarist and songwriter in The Housemartins. After several years and several hits he retired from the pop world to become a fulltime father to his 4 children.  He then began writing books for children and scripts for children's television shows. With two series already under their belts at Nick Jr., the chaps are about to embark on a further 40 episodes as Bopps mania sweeps through a small town near Ipswich.

Last and by no means least in this set of announcements, we are extremely pleased to announce the return of our friends from The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre , who, over the years have brought us the most amazing story telling shows, and creative activities. We are delighted that they'll be with us for more of the same in 2012.
       
Finally, a quick reminder that our earlybird ticket offer finishes in just a few weeks, so you don't have long to get your orders in. There is still time to save up to £25 on an adult weekend ticket, and also to benefit from free under 10s tickets. Wychwood tickets make the ideal Christmas present!

Likewise, only a few weeks to go to get your friends and family introductions sorted, so that we can send you thank you cheques in the New Year.

Please visit our ticket page for more information, and please don't delay in booking to make these great savings!

That's all for now- we look forward to sharing with you the rest of our line up and all our headline acts in the coming months, and in the meantime, we wish you the best of early seasonal wishes.

The Wychwood Festival Team