All-Star Line-up for The Electric Picnic

Republic of Ireland | | 24 March 2006

Ireland's own Boutique festival returns to Stradbally Hall, Co Laois, for its third year on 1-3 September with the Pet Shop Boys, New Order, Massive Attack and Basement Jaxx topping a stellar bill.

The impressive cast of international acts playing over the three days also boasts Groove Armada, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Graham Coxon, Belle and Sebastian, Rufus Wainwright (solo), Super Furry Animals (pictured right), Alabama 3, Antony and The Johnsons, Elbow, Bloc Party and many more. Those flying the flag for the Irish this year include David Kitt, The Frames and the elusive Damien Rice.

Today's launch at new music venue Crawdaddy featured comedian PJ Gallagher (flanked by two models, pictured left), who is best known for his RTE series 'Naked Camera'. PJ will be appearing at the festival in the International Comedy Tent. Previous years have had comedy greats such as Tommy Tiernan, Joe Rooney (Father Damo in 'Father Ted'), and now resident MC, Des Bishop.

Other attractions will include the Body and Soul Village, offering massage and healing; The Big Tree, a carbon neutral nature foundation set up by Damien Rice; a small cinema showing cult movies; the Hot Press Chat Room, where fans can get up close and personal with festival performers; The Foggy Nations Stage - showcasing exotic, mystical and mind-bending sounds; Lost Vagueness, with its flamboyant burlesque theatre and cabaret; the world-famous Bacardi B-Bar, a Silent Disco and, er, female urinals.

Full camping is available, but (VF's accommodation of choice) Podpads are on offer for the more adventurous guest, as are Beach Huts and Tipis.

Electric Picnic 2006 takes place at Stradbally Hall, Co Laois - about an hour from Dublin - on 1st - 3rd September. Tickets go on-sale on Friday 24th March and are priced at €175 for the three days, including camping. Please click on the links below for more info.