REVIEW: Camp Bestival [Festival Fever]

REVIEW: Camp Bestival

Posted on July 22, 2008 3:10 PM
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Camp Bestival
Lulworth Castle, Dorset
18, 19 and 20 July 2008

Review by Joan Losa

Surrounded by queens of hearts, gunmen, knives, swordsmen and Alices, this humble reviewer spent an amazing weekend in the grounds of Lulworth Castle, Dorset experiencing what may be the first festival exclusively designed for families.

With a great variety of attractions such as baby chill-out, kid’s disco, kid’s garden, an insect circus, a beautiful mini theatre and lots of stands with international food, Camp Bestival looked like a dreamy bohemian village. Here, everything was possible – not unlike the inside of a child’s brain.

The numbers talk for themselves: More than 10,000 people and at least 3,500 children attended. This successful event comes from the same organisers behind Bestival on the Isle of Wight.

The headline act on Friday night included Chuck Berry. The octogenarian icon appeared full of energy and vitality offering a superb selection of vintage rock and roll songs. After this glorious and timeless rock set, it was time for the Djs…

Saturday’s line-up included Billy Bragg and his folk, punk protest full of wry humour. Black Kids proved why they are one of the buzz bands of 2008, and finally The Flaming Lips wowed with their spectacular live show involving UFO’s, lunacy and lot of imagination. They were, without doubt the band that best represent the spirit of the festival.

Sunday’s line-up offered two already acclaimed singers; Suzanne Vega and Kate Nash. The first played an elegant set ending with her memorable singles ‘The Queen And The Soldier, ‘Tom’s Diner’ and, of course, ‘Luka’. And then was time for Kate Nash to close the festival. With a formidable reputation as a live performer, Miss Nash has an amazing connection with the youngsters and is very popular amongst the under-10s. Her voice and sing-along anthems like ‘The Nicest Thing’ and ‘Foundations’ were the best way to say goodbye to this all ages festival.

Make sure you don't miss Bestival on 5th, 6th & 7th of September. It's out pick of the year!