By Sarah Kingon
For the last two days writers have taken to the streets (well, the village green actually) to listen to reader’s views on the Festival. We’ve offered passers-by a copy of Cue in exchange for a bit of conversation.
The idea was to have a space where readers could share their stories with us as well as offer us some of their show recommendations. Alternatively, if you’re not the social type, you could take a selfie with the paper and earn yourself a free copy of the paper. Some people preferred to offer us money for the Cue instead of chatting. Many preferred to sit with us because we’re the only ones with a heater in the chilly weather.
It seems that people come to the Festival for a variety of reasons. Many of those at the Village Green were people from the Eastern Cape, there for a day’s outing and possibly a show in the evening. Countless others are here as performers and only have limited time to see other shows. Some have wacky stories about how they got here with a broken down cars.
Accommodation options range from locals who let out their homes to visitors while they occupy the granny flat, to school or university residences and hotel-stays.
Many are familiar with the arts scene and attend every year, while others are newbies.
Look out for us at Village Green and come and share your opinions and suggestions.
Some impressions of Festival:
“Fest wouldn’t be Fest without the sundowners.”
“The first show we book every year is Raiders.”
“The explosion of culture is amazing. There is so much out there that’s brought into one space.”
“Cue reviews are accurate and helpful.”
“The kudu burger stall at the Village Green is the go-to place for breakfast.”
“As a Grahamstonian, it’s incredible to have such a range of international talent on our doorstep.”
What readers enjoyed:
Jou ma se comedy club, 3-12 July, 11pm, Bowling club
Big Girls, daily at 12, The Highlander
Butlers and Brylcreem, 8-12 July, Vicky’s
Funnier than them, 7-12 July, Bowling club
On the harmful effects of tobacco
Amateur hour! 7-12 July, St Andrew’s Studio 1
Waiting for this God ou, 7 July, 5pm, PJ’s space
A few ‘downers’:
“The Children’s Theatre programme is a bit disappointing”
“We walked out of a comedy show when after five minutes the comedian had already used a string of expletives and blasphemy.”
“The rugby players from the Varsity tournament annexed the Rat and Parrot and sang two-syllable drinking songs.”
“There are so many shows to see that there is little time for reflection.”
Published on Monday 7 July 2014.