The Bike to The Future tour got underway at the weekend, with a trip down to perform at Shindig festival, where I met the inspirational ‘Spoke & Chain’.
On its new site – Dillington Park – the weekend was a joyous, colourful occasion that somehow managed to be both Drum & Bass-heavy and child-friendly!
Next stop: Bath Fringe (June 1st, Old Theatre Royal Bath, 8pm)…
Inspirational
On the way down to Shindig, I stopped for some much-needed refreshment at a tea-room in Somerton (former capital of ancient Wessex, apparently). Parked nearby, I noticed two heavily-laden bikes, with enormous frames and a mish-mash of intriguing luggage. As I later pitched my tent at the festival, these two vehicles wheeled into the space next door.
Naturally, I got talking to the occupants of said bicycles and they turned out to be quite inspirational. These two – we’ll call them ‘Kevin and Sylvia’ (since those are their names) – have been touring all over Europe for the past eight years. They carry their home and belongings, as well as props for their show, with them as they travel from town to town.
Vision & Bravery
The duo goes under the name ‘Spoke & Chain’. I didn’t actually get to see them perform their show but did get a glimpse of one of their giant puppets, as they did a quick ‘walk-about’ during the festival. And I also had the pleasure of spending time with the couple over the course of the weekend.
How wonderful it is to meet people with such vision and bravery. Kevin & Sylvia have let go of the certainties of a fixed home and income. But they gain in having the freedom to roam and the joy of performing to appreciative audiences. They have also experienced a huge amount of human kindness from strangers offering them food and lodgings in return for their entertainment and company.
Experience It For Yourself
If I can be even a fraction as inspiring as Spoke & Chain, I’ll have done my job. A lot of time and effort has gone into planning my latest Fringe offering ‘Bike to The Future’ and I’m hoping you can be there to experience it for yourself. Come along and see what you think. You’ll certainly be entertained and I know it’s going to be a lot of fun.
Do let me know (if you haven’t already) if you’re coming.