From the editor: Grass roots tips

Next week sees the start of the Brighton Fringe and the Brighton Festival, in case you managed to miss the announcements. My social media feed has moved on from being peppered with shows and events to a marvellous chilli festival of plays, stand-up comedy, circus, dance – as well as those intriguing ideas that never fall into any category and are so much the richer for it. The Latest Musicbar is buzzing in anticipation of not only the Brighton Fringe shows taking place here, but also that weekend musical extravaganza that is The Great Escape that encompasses us too.

This is what has historically been known as my “eyes bigger than tum” time – when I plan my month of May meticulously, filling every corner with an experience, a show or a walking tour. And then have to find extra corners in the month for the extra sleep I need after such stimulating times. And every year I vow to do less so that I can enjoy what I do see more. Savour the shows, respect the performers’ uniquenesses, and have a little space to be spontaneous and see something new because I have the time and the curiosity.

This year I’ve added another component to try and obtain the Best May Ever™: Ear To The Ground.

As I mentioned, social media is filling up with news of great shows, and I thought it would be a good idea to see if I could use it to feed me information on where the latest buzz is buzzing – as it buzzes. Ambitious, I know. One of the best shows I saw last year was an added extra after the success of its initial run (Alice Marshall, since your asking). With the world taking to Twitter and Facebook to recommend acts, why not listen? And I’ll pass on my recommendations too. (Twitter handle at the top FYI).

Let’s all try for the Best May Ever™.