The highly anticipated SXSW London is gearing up to take place in the vibrant Shoreditch area of east London, making it the first European edition of the renowned Austin festival. With dates set for June 2 – 7, the event is expected to span across more than 20 venues and attract a diverse crowd of 20,000 attendees. This cross-cultural offshoot of SXSW will encompass a wide range of programming, including tech, music, screen, and general arts.
SXSW London has recently welcomed a number of talented individuals to their team, including Anna Bogutskaya as the Head of Screen. Bogutskaya brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at BFI, Edinburgh International Film Festival, and Fantastic Fest, among others. Additionally, Visual Arts Advisor Beth Greenacre, previously known for curating the David Bowie collection, has joined the team. Clare Morris, former marketing lead at Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, will be taking on the role of Director of Marketing and Communications. These new hires are sure to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the festival.
Randel Bryan, the Managing Director of SXSW London, highlighted the festival’s unique format, which offers an array of programming formats and networking opportunities. The shorter date format relative to the original event in Austin allows for a concurrent schedule of conference, music, screen, and arts programs. This enables attendees from various industries to access a wide range of content in one dynamic setting. By bringing SXSW to Shoreditch, the festival aims to create a one-of-a-kind experience that showcases creativity in both indoor and outdoor spaces, capturing the vibrant energy of summer.
In preparation for SXSW London, UK artists are encouraged to submit their work and ideas for consideration by the programming team. A new platform will be launched in the fall to facilitate this process, allowing local talent to showcase their creativity on an international stage. Additionally, organizers plan to offer a skills development program following the event, providing artists with resources to further enhance their craft.
As the countdown to SXSW London begins, anticipation is building for what promises to be a groundbreaking event in the heart of east London. With a diverse lineup of programming, a team of talented industry professionals, and a vision for an immersive festival experience, SXSW London is poised to make its mark on the European cultural scene. Stay tuned for more updates as the event approaches and get ready to be part of a truly unforgettable festival experience in June.