Festival season is almost over for another year, but it's crowned off once more with Rob da Bank's Bestival, opening it's gates on the Isle of Wight next Thursday. As the countdown continues to the event featuring Dizzee Rascal, Roxy Music and The Prodigy, Rob has shown his softer side by launching a new registered charity called The Bestival Foundation. Every schoolchild under 16 on the island will be presented with a free Josie da Bank designed recycled water bottle as part of a three-year programme in conjunction with the Footprint Trust that will teach the children about saving water in a series of fun workshops.
Rob da Bank said: "We're chuffed and proud to announce the creation of The Bestival Foundation as a way of giving something back to worthwhile causes. To kick off we're focusing on a 3 year plan to support schools across the Isle of Wight giving young 'uns a free recycled bottle to get them thinking about water saving and water usage, which is an important issue for the local Island community and beyond."
The Bestival Foundation as a way of giving something back to worthwhile causes.
Keeping spirits high, the comedy line-up has also been revealed. Programmed by GetComedy.com, acts will include Rufus Hound, Andrew Maxwell , Craig Campbell, Andre Vincent, Tiffany Stevenson, Chris Cox, Benny Boot, Eric Lampaert, Joel Dommett, Rob Beckett, Luke Benson and Pete Walsh. There will also be a Fashionable Pub Quiz and Sound Familiar Music Quiz for those wanting to test their trivia over the weekend or, alternatively, try their luck with Underground Rebel Bingo - the craziest game of bingo you'll ever play.
The theme for 2010 is the Year of the Fantastic and as usual Saturday will be the day to don the fancy dress and compete for the crown of best costume. Meanwhile, there will be the chance to shine in the cabaret tent with Whose Talent Is It Anyway? For the first time we are opening our sparkly curtains to the ultimate talent show where you, yes you, are the stars of the show. All talents will be welcome with sign up from midday on Friday, September 10th - early arrival is advised as X-Factor queues are expected. Shows will take place at 1.15pm and 2.45pm. The winner of Whose Talent Is It Anyway? will get a coveted slot to perform on the Plugged In Solar-Powered Bestival Bandstand in the Tomorrow's World Field later in the weekend.
There will be the chance to shine in the cabaret tent with Whose Talent Is It Anyway?
Finally, with Bestival sold out months ago, those now wishing they had a ticket will be pleased to hear the festival will be on Channel 4 with a 6- minute Music on 4 special and a half hour T4 special on Sunday, September, 19th. There will also be four 15-minute artist specials to keep an eye out for.
There's plenty more information from the Bestival Team over at www.bestival.net including information about travel and entry so if you are heading to the Isle of Wight next weekend, be sure to check it before you leave!