But is it too late? Can Monahan revive Folk Fest and make it as profitable, notable and successful as Bluesfest? Let’s face it, when the lineup for Bluesfest is announced, the entire population of Ottawa is struck with the juxtaposition of “that’s not blues” and “oh wow, KISS!” Despite acts like KISS and Ozomatli, Bluesfest still throws in a number of
the world’s greatest blues acts. It’s an exciting and eclectic blend of artists known and unknown in a series of beautiful outdoor spots in Ottawa.From a marketing perspective, Folk Fest needs to do the same. If you take a look at the 2010 Folk Fest lineup, it’s all Folk; yes, that’s the point of a folk festival, but it is not bringing the fans to the seats (notable exception: Arrested Development, but most fans were wondering where Jason Bateman and Michael Cera were). Even bigger names like Ani DiFranco and Rufus Wainwright are missing from the list – those names are at least well known. It’s all about content marketing and with a music festival, your lineup is your content.
Mr. Monahan, please do the city a favour, do Folk Fest a favour, and sell out just a little bit. Get some bigger names into Folk Fest. While you may create an underground nickname of “Folkish Fest,” that’s ok. At least they’re talking. At least they’re buying tickets. At least you’re out of the red.
Tell us what you think by commenting below. What does Folk Fest need to do to get back on track? Is Monahan the right pick? Did Bluesfest sell out too much over the years? We want to know.
Click here for the source article from the Ottawa Citizen.
2 comments:
No, it's not OK to have a "Folkish Fest", nor is it OK to sell out a little like Bluesfest has done. Part of last year's woes was the weather disaster on Sunday, shutting down all but two stages for the day. But the main problem was the line up, but not for the reasons you suggest. Summerfolk in Owen Sound (rain 20 years out of 30) had some of the same new acts that performed in Ottawa, such as Namgar and Delhi2Dublin. But they had who Dylan Griffith failed to include, namely well known long standing Canadian artists such as Lennie Gallant, Colin Linden, Mose Scarlett, Grit Laskin and others. Folk Fest has always had a mixture of old and new acts and this has kept it going, one way or another. They were in the black after the event of 2009. I have attended all but two Folk Fests and put in over 45 hours volunteer time in each of the last two on Site Construction. I am not sad to see the end of Mr. Griffith, who I believe was ruining our festival. However, I await with no small amount of trepidation to see this year's line up. Talk to the folks in Owen Sound, Mark.
@jnrmcewen - thanks for the comment. I too hope that Folk Fest can turn things around. The reason I suggested a "Folkish Fest" was purely from a business standpoint to get more people out to the shows and get out of the red.
You think that a Folk Fest that is pure to its roots is the best course of action and if that is what Mark decides is best for Folk Fest then hats off to him.
One way or another, I too am anxiously awaiting the line up and will be excited to see what will be done. I have a feeling, based on BluesFest that 2011 will be a "Folkish Fest" - purely speculation.
Post a Comment