Shuffling along on a rickety old tram while listening to soulful Blues music might have seemed like a world away for most central Victorians, but it’s about to become a reality.
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The Bendigo Blues and Roots Festival has introduced the Blues Tram this year, which will aim to combine Bendigo’s famous love of trams and live music.
Borrowing the concept of the Blues Train in Queenscliff, the Blues Tram is aimed at giving punters an intimate musical experience while allowing them to soak in the historical sights of Bendigo.
The two-hour ride runs in the city at 1pm today, 2pm and 8pm tomorrow, and 1pm and 4pm on Sunday.
Musician Talisa Jobe, who is performing on Saturday’s tram, said the idea was more about the experience than the music.
“It’s really great; people can listen to live music and take in the scenery,” she said.
Ms Jobe took part in the Blues Tram practice runs in September and October and said the idea was indicative of the engaging nature of the festival.
“The festival caters for everyone. It (practice run) was really good to be playing for a small amount of people,” she said.
The 2012 festival – launched last night – boasts an eclectic mix of 79 acts, almost 20 more than last year.
“The festival is only going to grow and grow, it is cost-effective for the punter and there is so much going on,” Ms Jobe said.