Henley Festival 2025 Reveals RISE Stage Talent

Henley Festival, presented by Westcoast, is proud to unveil the outstanding ‘RISE’ line-up of emerging talent set to perform at this year’s event. The festival returns to the stunning Thames riverside for five unforgettable summer evenings from 9–13 July

The UK’s only black-tie music and arts festival returns to the Thames from 9–13 July with a spectacular mix of world-class music, comedy, cabaret, art, food, and fireworks. But Henley Festival is more than a magical night out… It’s a launchpad for the next generation of talent through its pioneering RISE programme.

RISE Stage

Now in its fourth year, RISE gives emerging musicians, visual artists, and backstage professionals a unique platform to perform, exhibit, and learn. Supported by industry leaders, RISE offers funding, mentoring, and career opportunities to outstanding new creatives from across the UK.

The 2025 RISE music line-up spans pop, jazz, folk, indie and classical. Headlined by Westcoast RISING Star Award-winner Hetta Falzon, a Manchester-based singer-songwriter known for her emotionally rich, genre-blending sound. Other acts include R&B vocalist Leila McKenzie, jazz-pop artist Darcy Winter, folk singer Jonny Morgan, South London’s Naima Adams, indie rockers The White Lakes, and more. Culminating with Irish singer-songwriter Conor McLain on Sunday.

Headliners

In addition to the RISE line-up, year’s headliners include Diana Ross, McFly, Rick Astley, Matteo Bocelli, Jamie Cullum, Haçienda Classical, Jo Whiley’s Festival Anthems, Yolanda Brown: Bob Marley Songbook and Ellie Sax. Plus comedy from Ed Byrne, Ivo Graham, Matt Forde, Rob Auton and Alistair McGowan. There’s also a packed Family Day ‘Playdate’ to entertain little ones of every age and stage.

Not just music…

Visual art also takes centre stage with the new RISE by Henley Festival Emerging Artist Prize. The winner, Raoul Orzabal, and runners-up Curtis Chan and Susan Kellaway will exhibit their work in the Audi High RISE Gallery, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary painting.

RISE continues to build creative futures! Working with colleges and academies to discover and support exceptional young talent, and offering them an inspiring stage to shine.