Rebel Soul is comprised of Jack Howe, James Trickey & Hannah Lewis. Their aim?is to dismantle destructive systems, create and support life-sustaining systems, and to love the journey. The three coordinators and all the crew at?Rebel?Soul are involved in groups and networks working to do these important things. We caught up with Jack, James and Hannah to gain some insight in to the wondrous, ponderous, rebellious venue they create each year….
What inspires the venue that you create for Shambala each year?
We are inspired by a desire to: build awareness of political, social and environmental issues; inspire people to take control of their lives and positively contribute to others; be an example of how people can voluntarily collaborate on a project; be an access point for social change; provide a networking space for people from different movements, generations & backgrounds; create a family vibe and a place for people to come together; re-kindle the fire in our bellies; have fun!
Describe your venue in five words.
Reflection. Inspiration. Collectivity. Action. Celebration.
What is the thinking/philosophy/ethos behind the venue and its programming?
We want to encourage curiosity, help people think for themselves, and try to provide a ‘welcoming-in’ to politics rather than saying what people should or shouldn’t do. We believe that community and collectivity is important and we hope that people feel this whilst participating in our workshops. In order to create the world we want to live in we need to thrive along the way, this is why we create a space with the right music and atmosphere in which people can have fun and enjoy themselves in the evening.
What content best reflected Rebel Soul’s philosophy at Shambala 2015?
Our daytime programme this year invited Shambalans to find their own curiosity about crucial political issues of today. We had daily ‘Big Debates’ on immigration, the NHS and the housing crisis. We explored power dynamics through workshops on sex, race and gender. And we gave a platform to brilliant grassroots campaigns around fracking, police spying, and the ‘No More Page 3’ campaign.
What lasting memory do you hope will stay with people who visited Rebel Soul when they returned home this year?
We want them to remember a feeling of freedom and positivity, gained by talking with other people engaged in a whole range of social and political issues. We hope they’ll feel inspired to take back control of their lives and take action on social issues.
Be a Rebel and join these guys at Shambala’s legendary workshop and music venue — designed to fire up the soul and get you ready to change the world.