By: Santiago Rivas @Rivas_Santiago
Photo by Oscar Perfer.
1- The press area: I don't know if this problem can be fixed, if IDARTES cares at all, or if it's the result of a very important study commissioned by the District and therefore they don't consider this an issue, but the press area is inadequate. I say this because over the years they've improved or worsened it as they please, without any criteria, but there was always at least a place to sit and plug in our phones, tablets, computers, or any of the devices we use for work.
I've spoken out against the sycophancy of those who treat the press area like an "uberVIP" several times, but this time I think they've gone too far. Their explanation is that "this press area is for those who aren't allied media outlets," which makes me think the festival only wants to be covered by those it considers its friends. It's speculation, but I don't think I'm the only one who feels uncomfortable in that little fishbowl at ETB, nor do I think I'm the only one who feels kicked out of the press area. Mind you: I'm asking for power outlets and seats, not a lavish reception with vestal virgins handing us grapes straight from the bunch or young men fanning us.
2- Propaganda: Here's a free tip for the organizers: when there's a delay in the program (especially the main act), and people are getting impatient, don't ask the poor presenter to read district propaganda, for a very simple reason: people, who tend to overreact, start associating the very negative unease caused by the delay with district initiatives and, of course, they start whistling and shouting at whoever is reading it. So it's counterproductive, as well as boring (even though district propaganda at Rock al Parque is understandable, of course).
3- Half a cake: The experiment of holding a parallel event to Metal Day is interesting. I already mentioned this in my main article and I'll repeat it here, because I believe the general perception is indeed one of an increased sense of belonging, especially among the audience that attends private festivals.
4- Raincoats: Many thanks to those who went out yesterday to hand out festival raincoats for those of us who had no way to cover ourselves in the press pit, they really saved our bacon there.
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