Bearded Theory Festival is offering a unique chance for unsigned bands to appear at the 2014 event.

What’s more, fans will be able to choose which acts are selected to appear at the festival, which takes place from May 22-25 in a striking new location, Catton Hall in South Derbyshire.

The Bearded Breakthrough competition has launched today (Oct 31) through the festival’s Facebook page  and there will be two winners – one to play its Main Stage and one for the Tornado Town second stage. The contest is open to acts in all genres who have not appeared at Bearded Theory previously.

Bearded Theory spokesman John Atkin says: “Throughout the history of Bearded Theory we’ve taken pride in mixing great name acts with the best in new and up-and-coming acts, and in letting our festival goers have their say in who appears. For 2014, we’re offering unsigned acts the prospect of exposure before a great audience, with slots on our two biggest stages.

“Already for 2014, we are working closely with local venues to support live music year-round, and the Bearded Breakthrough competition is an extension of that commitment.”

Artists booked to appear at Bearded Theiry 2014 include Peter Hook and his band The Light, Oysterband, The Blockheads and Fishbone 

Tickets are now on general sale, and available from here