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Lebowski Fest UK

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Red Mezz
Red Mezz
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5 out of 5
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Lebowski Fest UK

  • August 29, 2007
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Red Mezz from Inverness, Scotland
Lebowski Fest UK

It is widely known that there are some very strange shows, events, performances, comedians, and sub-festivals happening during the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh in August. There seems to be a little bit of something for every single possible taste or inclination.

And nowhere is this more true, than at Lebowski Fest, UK.

For those who are not in the know, I'll give a little bit of back story on this strange little festival which is rapidly developing a world wide following and dedicated festival-goers.

Only a few years ago, a few guys from Louisville Kentucky who were big fans of the cult film 'The Big Lebowski' decided to get together and have a bit of a celebration for all things 'Dude.' They got together in their local bowling alley for some white Russians and had a night of bowling in honour of The Dude.

This has now quickly escalated to all fans of this film (I think all Big Lebowski fans secretly think they are amongst only a small group of equally dedicated fans, and are as surprised as I was to find myself surrounded by those even more invested in the film than I) from all over the country getting together for a proper and official 'Lewbowski Fest.'

The fest is held all over the US each year, and for the first time ever in 2007 made its way to the UK and Edinburgh during the Fringe festival. The turn out was great, and so it will hopefully continue for years to come.

So - for those of you who are fans of the film and are now very excited about the prospect of joining in this rather odd little dedication festival, I'll fill you in on the events of the evening.

In Edinburgh, there were officially two fests. One in Fountain Park bowling alley beginning at 2pm, which includes bowling, trivia, costume contests, award presentation and even a 'farthest travelled' award. This event runs until 6pm and costs £14 at the door. (Not much more than it would normally cost just for bowling)

The second half of the fest, and the one in which I partook in this year, was at Club Ego on Picardi Place just a few minutes from Princes Street. The doors opened at 8pm where all festival goers joined in dancing in the middle of Club Ego. Shirts were available at the door (at a very reasonable £12) and white Russians at the bar (at an extortionate £5). Live music began at 9 on the stage - with Page 6 from Dundee. Somewhat a local band, but very good. Almost worth the £8 entry fee alone.

After the band, at about 10pm a screen was brought out and everyone settled onto the floor along with the creators of Lebowski Fest, all the way from Kentucky to watch a screening of the film.

If you are an 'Achiever' this is not to be missed. Wonderful night - a must do.

From journal Performers and Comedians...Festival Madness!

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