Escape Into The Park
Next month sees the return to Swansea of the all-day annual party that is Escape Into The Park.
Held in Singleton Park, the one-day shindig brings DJs and performers from around the world, as well as a funfair, food stalls and performance artists.
Previous names from the world of dance to play have included Underworld, Sasha, Calvin Harris and Paul Van Dyk.
We caught up with brand manager, Neil Navarra, who is also one of the DJs to be playing the main stage.
Shouttawe: Tell us about EITP - some history and background.
Neil: Escape Into The Park has been running for over a decade now and is really a testament to the loyalty and support of the Welsh people. It's a great festival in a very unique location. Singleton Park itself is almost a natural auditorium and I think one of the best festival sites in the UK.
Shouttawe: Tell us about this year's line-up.
Neil: I'm really excited about this year. We've branched out in a slightly different direction on the main stage, introducing some of the UK's biggest recording artists in Chipmunk and Tinchy Stryder, as well as great rising star in Yasmin. We've mixed that up with dutch house legend Chuckie and another massive rising star in Jaguar Skills, who I'm really looking forward to playing with. Also joining me on the main stage is Big Al. I suppose it wouldn't be EITP with him.
This year I'm going to play things a little differently musically, with a bit of drum 'n' bass, dubstep and breaks. Joining me for my set is Benji MC from the Astroid Boys, a Welsh dubstep act. These guys are really going to blow up. The trance arena is really strong with Markus Schulz, John O Callaghan and some great up and comers in Ben Gold and Jordan Suckley. Providing the experience there will be Lisa Lashes and of course Judge Jules, who has played at every single festival.
The Bionic arena is again massive with all the major players there including Wildstylez and Headhunters, Viviana and Mondello, Radio One's Kutski and of course Welsh legends Cally And Juice. The CYNT terrace has arguably the world's biggest d'n'b act in Pendulum, MC Verse, and some great talent in Caspa and DJ Zinc. Finally for all the house heads the VIP is stacked with good local talent and headlined by the boy himself, Micky Slim.
Shouttawe: Headliners Tinchy and Chipmunk are a shift in direction - how did this come about?
Neil: We decided this year, in order to make the festival grow and develop, to introduce some urban artists to the main stage. Tinchy and Chipmunk are huge recording artists and will add a whole new dimension to the festival and open it to so many more people. This is massively important for the longevity of the festival. We have to adapt and respond to current musical trends in order to stay ahead of the game, and I think the introduction of these guys will do just that.
Shouttawe: The sun always seems to be shining on EITP day - discuss!
Neil: Wow, that's a toughy, and I wish I knew the answer, as I'd copyright it and sell it to every other festival in the world, and become a millionaire. We've just been blessed over the years and I will pray to Tom Jones that this year will be no different.
Shouttawe: We see you have Pritchard vs Dainton back this year - have they ever done anything painful to you?
Neil: Yes it's great to have the boyos back. Wow, yes I have fallen victim a few times. All I'll say is don't fall asleep around them and if you do, do it with one eye open. However, I will say it's nothing compared to what they do to each other. NUTTERS!
Shouttawe: There is always a heavy police / sniffer dog presence at EITP - do you think this is a good thing and why?
Neil: Yes, it's absolutely a good thing. The safety and wellbeing of our patrons is paramount. We work very closely with the police and local authorities to ensure this.
Shouttawe: Who are your favourite names at this year's event - any newbies you haven't seen before?
Neil: I'm really excited to see Jaguar Skills. His full-throttle turntablism and musical creativity is awesome. Also PvsD. No matter how many times you see their show there's always something new that will have you cringing!
Shouttawe: What would you say are the most essential three things attendees need to bring to EITP?
Neil: A camera, sunscreen and all your mates.
Shouttawe: What is the secret of the festival's longevity?
Neil: I think the secret is being aware of the local market and having people involved who are passionate about what they do and in the Welsh dance music scene.
Shouttawe: What should any young newcomers expect from their first EITP, and any top tips for them?
Neil: Fun, sun and great music!
Escape Into The Park is on Saturday 11 June in Singleton Park, Swansea.
Tickets: £41.50 general admission / £59.50 VIP admission
www.escapefestival.com
