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RISE is Henley Festival’s charitable programme, created in 2022 to champion up-and-coming creatives in visual arts, music and backstage, and provide opportunities where they’re increasingly hard to find.
RISE supports talented musicians and visual artists at the heart of the festival, while giving future backstage professionals paid, hands-on experience with internationally renowned lighting and sound companies.
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Early RISErs is Henley Festival’s programme for local, young musicians and artists. In 2026, we showcased three bands and singer/songwriters playing their original music and covers on the RISE stage during Playdate @ Henley Festival.
“Performing for Henley Festival and being a part of their RISE programme changed my perspective on what is possible as an artist, it broadened my horizons.”
“My experience at Henley was extremely beneficial to my progression into the industry, it allowed me to work as a professional and learn the way live events work. I got the chance to use equipment that I would not have been able to use whilst being mentored throughout.
I am now even more excited to head into the industry knowing what to expect and what I have to do to get there. Thank You!”
“Winning RISE [Emerging Artist Prize] was such a confidence boost for me as an artist. What I loved most was how supportive everyone was. You really get the feeling that the team wants to see artists do well and help them take the next step in their careers. It was such a warm and welcoming experience, and getting to be part of the festival made it even more memorable.”
