REVIEW: Went Fest, Hooton Lodge Farm,
ROTHERHAM’S music festival Wentfest returned to Hooton Lodge Farm, Kilnhurst for a full day of live music and side-splitting comedy.
I was very kindly given an AAA pass where I was based behind the main stage and was truly delighted to meet big name acts Jason Donovan, Harleymoon Kemp, Max and Harvey, and Jon and Jo of S Club, as well as making my way across to the Comedy Tent and New Music stages where I eagerly watched local bands I have reviewed earlier this year – Bicker as always were amazing.
This particular marquee shone the light on new and upcoming South Yorkshire talent and was absolutely awesome.
The audience had such energy and enthusiasm with all of the acts.
In addition to the pop, alternative rock and indie, a healthy high energy injection of dance tunes was provided by SBS and Soraya Vivian.
Soraya Vivian also brought her sparkle co-hosting Wentfest with equally bubbly radio presenter Stewart Nicholson of Rotherham Radio.
Stephanie Hirst blasted out the most amazing Belters set – the audience absolutely loved it.
It was very exciting watching Jason Donovan and Jon and Jo of S Club.
They were also so lovely in real life, too.
Jon and Jo certainly did not disappointment singing and dancing to signature S Club songs and received loads of cheers from their adoring fans.
Jason Donovan also excited his audience with classic tunes from Too Many Broken Hearts, Sealed with a Kiss, Especially for You and signature Joseph and the Technicoloured Dream Coat musical numbers.
Comedians were plentiful in the Last Laugh tent.
Justin Moorhouse, Nina Gilligan, Oliver Bowler, Charlie Chuck and my all time favourites Neil Fitzmaurice, Steve Edge, Wentfest’s very own Toby Foster, and Archie Kelly of the Phoenix Nights cast made it an amazing afternoon.
The Phoenix Night cast Q&A was exceptional and the marquee was absolutely packed.
I was fortunate to speak to the cast after the Q&A who told me they will be making a further South Yorkshire appearance on August 1 at Sheffield City Hall.
Festival bosses Toby Foster and Steve White have made regular changes to their festival since it all began in 2017.
The venue celebrated its third year of hosting Wentfest and did not seem to disappoint from all the happy faces.
Festival-goer Vicky Morris said: “The highlight for me was Jason signing my book.
“I really enjoyed the day. Jason took me back to being six years old again – loved every minute of his set.”
Mark Caine-Grierson said: “Eleven hours of unforgettable family fun – from soundcheck to sunset another truly brilliant local festival with big beats and belly laughs.”
Toby Foster told the Advertiser after the show: “We are over the moon how the day went.
“To everyone who came and partied with us – thanks for being part of the family.”
Charlotte Schofield, proprietor of Hooton Lodge Farm, added: “It’s such a fantastic festival, so many amazing customers.
“The festival was full of great vibes, and the music and the entertainment was amazing.
“The comedy is something else!
“We hope we can work with Steve and Toby the future.”
Toby and Steve have addressed the financial position of the festival in their social media posts in the last few days amid levels of uncertainty over a tenth Wentfest for 2027.
However, because of public opinion and support, and Toby and Steve’s passion and commitment – possibilities of a tenth anniversary event are currently being explored and floated.
Potential announcements in coming days could be hitting Wentfest and Hooton Lodge websites – keep your eyes peeled!