What makes a good festival, above all, is the audience. It feels disconnected when it's meant to bring in people from elsewhere and not meant for the people who actually live there.
This quote underscores the importance of community engagement and authenticity in events. Festivals thrive when they reflect and celebrate the local culture and community, fostering a sense of belonging. When events are designed solely to attract outsiders without considering the needs and identity of the residents, the experience can feel hollow or disconnected. Truly successful festivals create a space where locals feel valued and engaged, strengthening community bonds and ensuring sustainability. The emphasis on the audience's role reminds us that meaningful experiences are often rooted in genuine participation and respect for the local context.
