Pancakes, Fire And Tomato Fights: The Other Side Of Glastonbury
Thursday, 26 June 2014
Written by Natalie Lam
Every year, without exception, hordes of Glastonbury goers complain about the line up. It's become part of the tradition.
This time around, Metallica's controversial headline appearance has put the cat among the pigeons for the festival’s more sensitive attendees, but Glastonbury's ethos and focus on the experience means that, whoever’s parading their wares on the Pyramid Stage, the festival has plenty to offer even if you hate every last band on the poster (unlikely, sure, but we all know someone who could fit that bill).
Glastonbury can be a bit like walking through a city armed with a time machine. Each step might take you somewhere entirely new and it’s easy forget that it's all contained within one (massive) field. With so many alternatives to pick and choose from - even if you’re taking a break from the tunes - here are some picks for something different.
Strummerville
Technically, if you want to play Glastonbury, you can. Named after Joe Strummer, legendary frontman of the Clash, this charity will return to Glastonbury once again, in slightly new surroundings. Strummerville will set up their campfire at Clapps Ground, between The Common and Block9, allowing people to meet, drink, laugh and talk music. There’s a genuine sense of community here, so if you've somehow lost your friends - inevitable, surely? - you could do worse. More info here.
The Beat Hotel
While it is a music venue - you can catch DJ sets throughout the weekend - the food and drink that the Beat Diner is offering is not to be missed. If your weekend is lacking in home luxuries, then find a seat and put some pancakes in your face. The diner, run by Chris Gillard, head chef of the Michelin-starred St. John restaurant, will later serve up Tex Mex, dishing out pulled-pork and BBQ chicken dishes, accompanied by cocktails from Soulshakers. Have your order at the ready, as you might be fighting to get served. More info here.
Arcadia
As soon as you see a robotic spider breathing fire - naturally - you know you're near Arcadia. The move to an all new area of Glastonbury this year means loads of room for cool stuff, like the mobile Bug Stage and the monstrously awesome Hand Of Man, a near 30-foot contraption controlled with a “cyborg style glove”. Also expect sets from DJs - including Mr Scruff, Nero and Disclosure - aerial performers and all manner of pyrotechnics to complete the illusion that the Transformers are here and want to dance. More info here.
The Temple
This year, the Temple will offer something messy to complement the deep bass and “praying to the rave gods of the jungle”. Bearded Kitten will take over to close proceedings with a Glasto take on La Tomatina. Essentially, you’ll have a chance to throw three tons of tomatoes at your mates. And, if things weren't slimy enough, there’s also the colour wars. There’ll be so much UV paint thrown around that it will look like a rainbow threw up on you. What more could you want? More info here.
Copperdollar
Enter the Copperdollar, if you dare. Here, the future doesn't exist. Inspired by Samhain, the Celtic festival of the dead, the detailed nooks and crannies of the club, from the costumes to the decor, will have you dancing and befriending the dead. With a huge focus on audience interaction and involvement, this creative, immersive theatre show is so realistic, you'll feel like becoming part of history. More info here.
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