Heavy metal legends Iron Maiden are set to film their upcoming concert film at Knebworth Park next weekend during the EDDFEST celebration of the band's 50th anniversary. The decision follows a chaotic power cut at their Paris show on June 22, which cut short their performance and prevented filming for a future cinematic release.
Paris Power Cut Disrupts Filming Plans
Midway through their set at the La Defense Arena, a total power cut plunged the stadium into darkness during 'Two Minutes To Midnight'. While power was restored, strict local curfews prevented the band from performing their three-song encore to 30,000 fans. The concert was intended to be filmed for posterity, but the blackout derailed those plans.
Band founder and bassist Steve Harris commented, “You all know what happened in Paris, we all know what happened in Paris, so we’re gonna finish it off at Knebworth, and we’ll see you there.” Singer Bruce Dickinson added, “We’re not going to lose what we did in Paris but we’re going to add to it with some amazing stuff from Knebworth. So Knebworth, be on ya best behaviour!!”
Knebworth EDDFEST to Capture Historic Performance
After rapid behind-the-scenes activity, EDDFEST on July 11 will now be captured for the cinematic film commemorating the Run For Your Lives tour, which is currently halfway through its world tour. Fans in both Paris and the UK will become part of the film.
Manager Rod Smallwood said, “We’ve raided Eddie’s Archive, Steve’s garden and our very own offices, warehouses and homes to bring you some actual pieces of our history! More than 50 items from almost 50 years of history will be on display for tens of thousands of you to see.”
Infinite Dreams Museum and Festival Details
The on-site Infinite Dreams Museum will feature iconic exhibits including the pharaoh's head from the World Slavery Tour, Eddie's ray-gun from 1986's Somewhere On Tour, the X-Factor electric chair, tank commander Eddie from the A Matter of Life & Death Tour, Baphomet from 'Number Of The Beast', the 'Phantom of the Opera' organ from the Maiden England tour, and personal band mementoes from Paul Di'Anno onwards.
The EDDFEST festival starts on Friday afternoon with camping included for both nights. 'Maidenville' will be open to weekend campers throughout Friday and Saturday, featuring live performances including Blaze Bayley, Gypsy's Kiss, Eddie's Dive Bar, the Infinite Dreams Museum Experience, the Unfair Funfair with rides and Eddie-themed games, and Eddie's Emporium. Saturday-only ticket holders can access Maidenville alongside the Main Arena, culminating in the main stage performances with a supporting line-up ahead of Iron Maiden's Run For Your Lives show.
