Rehearsals Underway for Camden Fringe Festival as Ozzy Osbourne and Jake E. Lee Prepare for Monumental London Reunion on August 3rd
By Entertainment Correspondent | July 9, 2025
LONDON – The energy in Camden is electrifying as rehearsals kick into high gear for one of the most anticipated events in the UK’s live performance calendar: the Camden Fringe Festival. Set to begin August 3rd, the annual celebration of art, theatre, comedy, and music will reach a deafening crescendo this year with the long-awaited stage reunion of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne and his iconic guitarist Jake E. Lee.
The news of their performance has already sent shockwaves through the global rock community. For the first time in over three decades, the Prince of Darkness and his former six-string partner will reunite to perform a special set at London’s Electric Ballroom, igniting nostalgia among fans and bringing a historic edge to the festival’s musical lineup.
A Reunion Long in the Making
The pairing of Osbourne and Lee is etched in the annals of rock history. After the tragic loss of guitarist Randy Rhoads in 1982, Jake E. Lee stepped into the spotlight, helping shape the sound of Osbourne’s solo career in the mid-1980s. Albums like Bark at the Moon (1983) and The Ultimate Sin (1986) showcased Lee’s virtuosic playing and cemented his legacy in the Osbourne catalog.
While the two parted ways under tense circumstances in 1987, rumors of reconciliation have swirled for years. Now, those whispers have become reality.
“Time heals a lot,” Osbourne said in a behind-the-scenes video shared during rehearsals at a private studio in North London. “Jake was part of some of my best records, and it just felt like the right moment to bring that energy back. Camden Fringe is about expression, freedom, and performance—and this is going to be raw and real.”
Lee, who’s remained an influential figure in hard rock and metal circles with his band Red Dragon Cartel, echoed the sentiment. “We’ve both been through a lot. This isn’t just a gig—this is a full-circle moment.”
Camden Fringe: The Creative Heartbeat of August
Now in its 18th year, the Camden Fringe Festival has become a launching pad for eclectic and emerging acts, hosting over 300 performances across 20+ venues in the heart of London. While traditionally focused on fringe theatre, stand-up, and experimental performance art, the inclusion of Osbourne and Lee is a bold, genre-bending move that reflects the festival’s evolving identity.
Festival Director Michelle Flower spoke about the buzz the performance has generated: “When we were approached with the idea of including Ozzy and Jake, it seemed surreal. But what better place to bring an unexpected and historic reunion to life than Camden? It’s rebellious, it’s alternative, and above all, it’s about creativity without rules.”
According to organizers, Osbourne and Lee will headline a one-night-only rock show titled “Madness in Camden,” scheduled for the evening of August 3rd at the Electric Ballroom, with a surprise lineup of opening acts rumored to include rising London rock outfit Midnight Pilots and a yet-to-be-named female-led punk band.
Rehearsals: Sweat, Shouts, and Sonic Fire
Leaked images and sound snippets from rehearsals reveal a rejuvenated Osbourne, seated but fully commanding the room with his signature wails, while Jake E. Lee shreds his way through classics like “Bark at the Moon” and “Shot in the Dark.” The chemistry between them seems untouched by time.
Sources close to the team describe rehearsals as “emotional and fierce,” with Ozzy reportedly shedding tears during a stripped-down run of “Goodbye to Romance.”
“We’re not just running through the songs,” Lee said. “We’re reliving them.”
Backing the duo is a powerhouse rhythm section, including drummer Tommy Clufetos and bassist Rob “Blasko” Nicholson, both Osbourne regulars. Keyboardist Adam Wakeman, son of Yes legend Rick Wakeman, is also set to join the performance.
What to Expect on the Night
While the full setlist remains under wraps, fans can expect a blend of Osbourne’s solo hits, a few deep cuts that haven’t been performed live in years, and a tribute to Randy Rhoads—something both Ozzy and Jake felt was non-negotiable.
“Without Randy, none of this would be happening,” Osbourne shared. “We owe him that.”
Adding to the theatrical flair, renowned lighting designer Lance Zane, known for working with acts like Iron Maiden and Tool, is crafting a moody and immersive stage experience meant to mirror the dark grandeur of Ozzy’s legacy while staying true to Camden’s gritty charm.
Tickets and Anticipation
Tickets for the “Madness in Camden” show sold out in less than 10 minutes, with resale prices skyrocketing online. Security and crowd control measures are being reinforced to accommodate the expected overflow of fans gathering outside the venue just to catch a glimpse of the moment.
Camden pubs and shops are getting in on the action as well, offering themed cocktails, memorabilia, and pre-show listening parties in honor of the duo. One local café even renamed its house blend “Osbourne Roast” for the month of August.
A Rock Revival with Soul
Beyond the electricity of the music, this performance marks a poignant moment in the lives of both artists. Osbourne, who has faced ongoing health struggles, including Parkinson’s disease, has repeatedly stated that every opportunity to perform now feels like a gift.
“This may be the last time we do something like this,” he said. “But if it is, we’re going to make sure it counts.”
As Camden Fringe gears up to open its doors and throw its arms wide to art in all its forms, this headline performance is set not just to rock London—but to resonate through the annals of musical history.
Camden Fringe Festival 2025 runs from August 3rd to August 25th. Visit www.camdenfringe.com for full program details.
