Newtown Festival 2019 Focus: The Soul Movers

Answered by: Murray Cook - guitar

Presumably you’ve been to the Newtown Festival before, what’s your favourite memory? I've lived in Newtown for over 30 years and have attended many festivals here. So it's a bit of a blur. I guess it's the music and atmosphere that I love most.

Lots of suburbs put on festivals, but Newtown Festival is always particularly huge - why do you think that is? It's because Newtown is known for its artists, musicians and food so people know they will get something special. Newtown is known for being very inclusive and the festival reflects that.

Favourite spot at the festival to chill and watch the world go by? I'm really not a "chill and watch the world go by" kinda guy. I stop and watch and listen to the music but mostly I like to be on the move and exploring.

What would be your entry into the dog show? My two little doggies are getting a bit old now so I think the dog show would freak them out. Is there a prize for the weirdest sleeping position?

This year's musical line-up is entirely from the Inner West - what is it about the area that inspires so much creativity? A lot of artists and musicians were attracted to Newtown when I moved here in the '80s as it was cheap. It had a grungy vibe and wasn't as fashion conscious as Surry Hills or Darlinghurst. It developed a reputation as an arts centre which continues today.

What's your go-to food stall at the festival and why? I love the variety of foods on offer and I'm a grazer, so I don't really have a go-to stall. I like to discover new food.

Will you extend your Newtown Festival celebrations into the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre Festival Series in the weeks leading up to the big day? I might check out the Tommie Talk on the impact of fast fashion. Sounds interesting and an important topic. The Classic Cinema screening of The Princess Bride sounds cool. I love that movie and would like to see it in that environment.

When and where are you performing on the day? Federation Stage, 4.40pm.