Debut Kaleidoscope festival takes place in Ally Pally grounds

Against the backdrop of London’s skyline, the first ever festival in the grounds of Alexandra Palace took place this weekend (21 July). Kaleidoscope festival saw music, poetry, comedy, art and theatre descend on the grade II listed building and surrounding park slopes and woodland.

The festival isn’t the first to take advantage of a historical spot to attract festivalgoers. Hampton Court Palace Festival, now in its 26th year, celebrated its 2018 edition with a record breaking crowd, and Kenwood House’s Heritage Concert Series saw success this year with its first shows since 2013.

On the main stage of Kaleidoscope’s inaugural year festivalgoers were treated to performances from The Flaming Lips, Mystery Jets and Beth Orton. Elsewhere, comedy performances were delivered by Katherine Ryan, Mark Watson and Dr. John Cooper Clarke.

“It’s been amazing to see so many people of all ages enjoying such a diverse mix of music, theatre, comedy and performing arts”

Guests also had the opportunity to explore the rarely-opened Victorian basements within the palace itself. Inside, an immersive theatre experience paid tribute to Alexandra Palace’s role in the creation of television.

Aimed at festivalgoers of all ages, organisers hoped the first edition of the festival would leave people ready for Kaleidoscope instalments for years to come. Speaking about the success of this year’s event, Simon Fell, founder of the Kaleidoscope, says: “It’s been amazing to see so many people of all ages enjoying such a diverse mix of music, theatre, comedy and performing arts this weekend. And what better place to do so than in one of the most beautiful locations in London.

“Something magical took place on Saturday and we can’t wait to welcome people back next year.”

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