Save The Date: London Bridge Festival, 10-15 July

By Londonist Last edited 177 months ago
Save The Date: London Bridge Festival, 10-15 July

londonbridgeandbus.jpg
Image by M@

Has London finally grown tired of Edinburgh wearing the UK's Crown when it comes to Fringe? The London Bridge Festival runs for two weeks in July, and seems to be giving the great Scottish knees-up a run for its money. And where better to host such an historical arts event than the London Bridge area, home of Shakespeare's Globe?

The London Bridge Festival will encompass pretty much every art form going. Highlights include a comedy line-up featuring Stewart Lee, Marcus Brigstocke and Stephen K Amos, and a host of promising performances such as the proposed 'theatre in a car' at Hays Galleria, where four directors will each produce a 20-minute play in and around a parked car. Even more intriguing is the sound of the street show on July 11, when - to mark the 800th anniversary of 'Old' London Bridge - new London Bridge will be closed to traffic and ye olde days of yore recreated with craftsmen, performers and poets.

If you've got ambition - and some guts, too - why not consider putting on a show of your own? The promoters are calling out for Londoners to help shape this festival in whatever way they think suits their city best. You might, for example, contribute to the short story competition or take up the crazy-sounding challenge of making a film within 48 hours on a surprise topic. Whether you want to contribute, or just keep an eye on the ever-changing programme, visit the festival web site to find out more.

By Sophie Offord

Last Updated 17 June 2009