Bez from the Happy Mondays – From Maracas to MP – talks to Campfire

Bez, September’s guest speaker at Campfire, was part of a movement that set the soundtrack for a generation. As resident dancer and maverick percussionist with the Happy Mondays and Black Grape, he wove his merry way across the late 80s and 90s with two iconic bands that still resonate today.

The Detective Inspector’s son has spent his life challenging authority and refusing to accept the status quo – we can’t wait to share in his story on Thursday 18th September from 7pm.

Bez has seen his fair share of highs and lows. He’s gone from being the most recognisable maraca-player in the world, to seeing both the Happy Mondays and Black Grape implode due to creative differences. He’s been sent to prison, had his troubles with the taxman, and solved his money woes with the winnings from Celebrity Big Brother. He’s got plenty to tell, and he’ll be sharing it all with us at Campfire – the dancing, the drugs and the drive towards Parliament.

One thing’s for certain – whatever you’re expecting, expect the unexpected: Thursday 18th September, 7pm.

The ditto doors will be displaying a fantastic exhibition by Elspeth Moore. She has shot some of the biggest names in showbusiness: Ian McCulloch, Johnny Marr, Tim Burgess and even Nile Rodgers (as well as ALL of Chic). She broke into music photography in 2011, capturing The Vaccines on the NME tour. Since then, she has built up a considerable portfolio - whether working at a festival, gig, on the street or at a wedding, Elspeth considers herself a ‘people photographer’ – interested mainly with the individuals who make up each composition.

Book your place a [email protected]

If there’s anything you’d like to ask Bez, drop us a tweet: @Playworkstv#dittocampfire. We’ll be taking questions and comments right up until the end of the talk, to be aired in the Q&A session.