Man makes false promises of music stars at non-existent festival

James Kenny claimed to have managed the backstage bar at the National Television Awards, but event organizers stated he was actually working as a temporary employee.

The planned three-day music festival, with a capacity of 45,000 people, was set for this August bank holiday and was promoted as the world's first hydrogen-powered music event. However, it was later revealed to be built on deceit.

An investigation by BBC News exposed James Kenny, a self-described "fantasist" and convicted fraudster, who orchestrated a fictitious festival from his mother's kitchen. The festival falsely claimed to have secured headliners from Glastonbury, Hollywood stars, and government officials.

Despite claims that the festival was intended to proceed, many individuals involved reported suspicions about its legitimacy as time passed. Deposits were not paid to bands, license applications were not submitted, and investors mentioned by Kenny denied any involvement.

The festival, named Monmouth Rising, was to take place at a showground near a Welsh border town, featuring multiple stages and emphasizing inclusivity with no VIP areas. However, various aspects of the festival, including financial backing and artist bookings, were found to be fabricated.

Employees and suppliers recounted a culture of secrecy created by Kenny, where critical information such as headline acts and ticket sales were withheld. Promises of substantial budgets and high-profile performers turned out to be false, leaving many individuals financially impacted.

Kenny's history includes failed ventures such as a city-wide cocktail festival, where similar patterns of deception emerged. He also misled a couple into investing in a Liverpool Cocktail Week that never materialized, leaving them significantly out of pocket.

Efforts to secure payments from Kenny, including legal action, were thwarted as he changed contact information and addresses. Alleged forged documents, including misrepresented financial backing, further complicated the situation for those involved.

Despite claims of genuine intentions, Kenny's actions have left a trail of financial losses and broken promises. The festival's cancellation and subsequent revelations have raised questions about the extent of deceit and the impact on individuals and businesses involved.