“Apres moi les deluges,” sings the Russian born Regina Spektor as the heavens begin to open. You know, if singers really have that power then, for once in my life, I wouldn’t mind seeing ABBA on the proviso that they sing ‘Money, Money, Money’.
I’m here at Latitude 2009, an extravaganza of music, film, theatre and cabaret. Indeed, no matter what your tastes you’ll find something that you like. So if you’re a Pet Shop Boys fan with a love of Shane Meadows and a penchant for Burlesque, then you’re going to be more than happy here.
Certainly, the eclectic nature of the programme creates an interesting vibe. There are lots of families and young children running around clearly having the time of their lives. It makes a change from the usual teeange emos and Goths skulking in the shadows, off their faces after half a scrumpy and a spliff that consists mostly of Oregano.
Given that I’m used to visiting film festivals – and demanding the finest hotels known to humanity whilst there – this whole camping lark is something of a new thing. And I have forgotten my wellies. Thankfully, the downpour that accompanied Ms Spektor (who was absolutely brilliant by the way: funny, humble and absolutely transcendent when singing) has yet to turn the festival site into a mud bath. I am of the sincere hope that writing those words haven’t jinxed it…
Now, before you ask ‘why is this madman rabbiting on about tents for LWLies?’ I will turn my attention to the film and music arena. Friday was a quiet day as the festival geared up for the majority of the festival-goers’ arrival, but there were still many treats to be had. There was a BAFTA presented preview of White Lightnin’, a fictionalised – and quite disturbing – account of the singer Jesco White. The London Short Film Festival showcased two wonderful shorts in Dead Dog (a spooky and surreal look at a man who goes after the person who he believes has killed his dog) and September, Esther May Campbell’s magical realist tale that deservedly picked up this year’s BAFTA for Best Live Action Short.
There’s much more over the next couple of days including Stephen Frears, Watchmen lectures, some previews, premieres, shorts and the like. I’ll tell you about it in due course, assuming that the Scrumpy doesn’t do me in.
Or my tent collapses.
For more about Latitude 2009 got to: www.latitudefestival.co.uk
