Digger:
Why are we so fascinated by the past and so interested in
Retro?
Becky: I think we are fascinated by the past because it's
safe ground. We know what to expect and in a lot of ways we
try and get the past back, such as to a time where it was
perceived to be easier. You could leave your door unlocked,
clip your kid round the ear (in public), women dressed like
women, and the music meant something. Who wouldn't want a
slice of that?
Digger: What is it that's so special about the
atmosphere at Jukebox Madness?
Becky: The atmosphere at the show is truly amazing, unlike
some outdoor events which are vast and lose the intimacy and
connection with the public. Jukebox Madness thrives on the
noise of the pinballs and chatter of exhibitors, not to
mention the tunes from vinyl all in the surrounding of a bar
type venue.
Digger: Apart from a wealth of jukeboxes, what other
sorts of exhibitions can people expect to see at Jukebox
Madness?
Becky: I can happily say that Jukebox Madness has something
for everyone. From Elvis t-shirts to vintage swing dresses,
retro furniture to reproduction, pinballs old and new,
arcade machines, slot machines, neons, jewellery,
fascinators, corsets, cinema posters, film clips. Not to
mention the records plus much, much more! And that's just
inside......
Digger: What difference has being at Kempton Park made
to the show?
Becky: The parking is exceptionally good and it's also in
an easy to reach location, just off the M3. And if you're in
the centre of London just a couple of stops from Waterloo,
Kempton has its own train station. We might move in
the future but we will give plenty of notice!
Digger: If people want to stay over the two days are there
places you can recommend to stay?
Becky: Yes several, which are listed on our web site,
hotels to B&B's. If you have a camper van, the car park
is there for your use over the weekend too.
Digger: Have you any idea of the amount of business that is
done at the show?
Becky: Ha, most exhibitors would prefer not to
comment on that one, but you will not see anyone leave
without a bag in hand or something MUCH larger. We have
repeat customers to the show but year on year the interest
has grown and we even have buyers over from the other side
of Europe not to mention a good Stateside following.
Digger: What tend to be the most popular attractions and
are the visitors from all age groups?
Becky: The most popular attractions, after the
jukeboxes, pinballs etc. has to be the live bands and Lindy
Hop workshops and displays. Each year we source out the next
up-and-coming bands, so if you've seen them at the show you
can hedge your bets you will see them again! The beauty of
an event like this one is that age really doesn't matter; we
have children's entertainers, tons of varied stalls, bars
and restaurants. You could have a brilliant day out without
knowing anything about the 50's!
Digger:
Are jukeboxes a good investment?
Becky: Lots of people ask if Jukeboxes are a good investment
and the answer is absolutely! The old beaten up pub jukebox
is getting harder to find, so with this in mind the rarer
these babies become the more they are desired. Why would you
want some shares in a boring old company when you can own a
piece of history, playing your favourite tune and glowing in
the corner...
Digger:
What is YOUR Retro passion?
Becky: Belts! Believe it or not I have over one
hundred vintage belts. I have a jukebox too.
Digger: Is Retro-themed dress encouraged at the show?
Becky: Encouraged yes, but not essential. Many people
use the show as a vehicle to dress up and look fantastic,
why not. But I would say that's only 30%.
Digger:
The show is in its 21st year. What development plans have
you got for future Jukebox Madness events, particularly the
25th Show?
Becky: Bigger and better of course, but we can't give all
our secrets away...You will just have to keep coming every
year! But whatever we do it will be "The best record
fair in the UK, dotted around the best museum of sound"
as quoted by Mark Lamarr.
