FESTIVAL 2024

eavesdropping returns to Cafe OTO for another four-day FESTIVAL, which includes four evening double-bill events and a weekend-long forum of talks, roundtables and provocations. Over the course of four evenings, eight performers present their latest works or works-in-progress in an intimate and informal setting. The programming within each set is artist-led: repertoire is only announced on the night, giving the performers the control and the flexibility to present whatever serves them best and giving the public special insight into the performer's freshest work. We aim to stimulate your ears and your imagination by presenting a surprising collection of artists working at the experimental fringes or intersections of various musical genres. In the lead up to the festival, you can find out more about our featured artists here or by exploring our podcast (search for 'eavesdropping conversations' wherever you find your podcasts).

At the heart of the festival is the FORUM, a two-day gathering for local and visiting artists alike to reflect together on a given topic. During this year’s forum we will explore the topic ‘Experiments in Failure’. Weighty talks given by guest speakers Soosan Lolavar and lisa minerva luxx sit alongside shorter provocations gathered through an open call, and the programme also includes a roundtable on contemporary opera and a special screening of Daniel Weintraub's documentary 'Deep Listening: The Story of Pauline Oliveros'. The vibe is low-key and friendly, whilst definitely being thought-provoking! 

Explore what happened on YouTube

eavesdropping's 2024 festival was generously supported by 

Arts Council England, Garrick Charitable Trust, Hinrichsen Foundation

and the eavesdropping consortium patrons.