When the music's over: 5 non-music events to catch at Bumbershoot this weekend

While most festivals rest heavily upon the laurels of their headlining musical acts, Bumbershoot has always prided itself on offering a more fully-rounded festival experience. Here are 5 tips on what to do during those moments when your ears really can’t take another 100-decibel assault:

5. Laugh your head off at the Laff Hole. Recently voted ‘Best Comedy Show’ by Seattle Magazine, the Laff Hole variety performance may just be the perfect antidote to all that rock’n’roll strutting and posing. Apparently even Robin Williams dropped by to check out their show in Seattle last year, and if it’s good enough for Mork, it’s good enough for you. Note that free Comedy Passes from the Comedy Pass Distribution Booth are recommended to guarantee entry to the show. (Saturday 5 September – Monday 7 September, Comedy Stage West; performances nightly at 6.30pm)

4. Scream your lungs out with Performance Space 122. NYC’s legendary contemporary arts venue, Performance Space 122, is putting on two shows at this year’s Bumbershoot, but more importantly they’ll be roaming the grounds with ‘The Scream Contest’. Ever fancied yourself as the lead in a Hammer Horror movie? Sign up to read a short radio theatre scene, then end it with the best howl your lungs can muster. (Saturday 5 September – Sunday 6 September, Festival Grounds; various times and locations)

3. Find out what’s really beneath that hatch. LOST writers Carlton Cuse, Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz will be talking about their work on the show, and fielding questions from the audience. This might be your only chance to find out what the hell that smoke monster’s all about, or why Jack Shepherd’s such a self-righteous douchebag. (Monday 7 September, Literary Arts Stage; 3.30pm-4.45pm)

2. Catch some old-school action at the Vert Ramp. Music and skateboarding always seem to have gone hand in hand, so it’s no surprise to see the Rockstar Energy Drink Vert Ramp return this year. Watch out for top skaters Bucky Lasek, Rob Lorifice and Rune Glifberg, among others, as well as BMX pros Zach Warden and Simon Tibron. (Saturday 5 September – Monday 7 September, Fountain Lawn; three demos daily, check schedule for details)

1. Shop till you drop at the Indie Market. Anyone who’s been to Bumbershoot before will be able to tell you about the wonders of the market, ranging from the handmade soaps to the unique metal sculptures. The true shopaholics among you can even check out the full vendor list in advance to plan your spending strategy - just remember to pack a few reusable totes for all that swag. (Saturday 5 September – Monday 7 September, Festival Grounds; open throughout the festival)

Photos: Australia's Strange Fruit, by Morgan Keuler; Adam Horowitz and Eddy Kitsis Writers of LOST

For more info:
10 acts not to miss at this year's Bumbershoot
Bumbershoot coverage on Examiner.com
Bumbershoot ticket sales