Jim makes a very good point. Sidmouth has always been an event for performers to move out of there comfort zone, and try collaborations and experimental endeavours. The thursday night Drill Hall ceilidhs for instance. The ceilidh under the sea...The Rock'n Roll one..(Brylcreem was in short supply!)
The LNE boxing match between Packie Byrne and Fred Jordan! Yes, silly of course, but, indicative of the sense of humour that is a vital part of Sidmouth...The Dead Sea Surfers providing the entire audience with brown paper bags designed like ukeleles, and making them do a solo!
Jim's silent disco, is just the latest in a long tradition of lunatic activities. Long may that continue....
As has been said. If you don't like Sidmouth, either don't bother coming, or find your own town, and start your own festival. It's nothing that will cost you less than 50 grand. Easy!