Richard Shayler: experiencing the familiar a long, long way from home
Finger lickin’ good
As I flew through the air in a yoghurt pot shaped bubble, gazing at the beautiful Japanese mountain ranges above, below and around me, I saw a strange figure out of the corner of my eye. He was wearing a white shirt, black rimmed glasses and fashioned a distinctive white beard. As he got closer it appeared that he was holding what looked to be a red bucket very close to his chest. This was clearly something of great importance. Something he cared for very dearly. All thoughts of the idyllic scenery had vanished and my sole focus was now on this old guy with his bucket.
He was coming closer and closer, holding that bucket so tight, smiling so sweetly. He was so old. What was he doing? Did I know him? And then I finally understood. It was Colonel Sanders. Colonel Sanders was standing in a Japanese ski gondola with the biggest grin on his face holding a bucket of chicken.
I imagine you’re all waiting for the line ‘and then I woke up’. But it won’t come. This event really happened. It is as real as the closely guarded Kentucky Fried Chicken recipe. As real as the fingers you will all ultimately lick clean because the chicken really is that good. As real as … well you get the picture. Even in a quiet, serene Japanese ski resort the multi-nationals are there ready to take more of our money.
I looked into the friendly, warm eyes of the Colonel and felt annoyed that he was there. I didn’t want the tower burger that I inevitably ordered. I wanted a ramen, or some sushi. But due to the Colonel’s popularity all the authentic restaurants seemed to have just given up.
It’s a shame, as it reminded me of home when all I wanted to do was immerse myself in the Japanese culture. But, I suppose this is the way of the world these days. It’s what people want. It makes them feel safe to purchase a product from a friendly old guy who just can’t stop licking his fingers.
However, there were just as many locals in there as there were foreigners so who am I to dictate how they run their ski resorts! And I did really enjoy my chicken wings! So perhaps I should have looked a little harder for the restaurant I desired, turned over a few more stones before I settled on my eventual choice. All things I do as the producer of Brighton Lights! I’m always on the lookout for amazing guests and fantastic bands.
This week is no different and we have several special shows for you to enjoy. Norman Jacobs is the director of a company called Music Of Our Time (MOOT). They showcase exciting new performances from interesting and diverse composers and performers. He was joined by composer Ed Hughes to chat about their up and coming performances. We were also joined by violinist Mandhira de Saram who gave us an extra special live rendition of some Bach. MC Cashback dropped by to chat about all things food and rap music, and Jetpack Elastic provided us with music all week.
You really don’t want to miss out. Watch Wednesday to Saturday at 7pm on Freeview channel 8, Virgin Media 159 or streamed live online at www.thelatest.tv. It’s so good you’ll all be licking your eyeballs!
Follow me: @latestrichard
