Insurance killed Waynestock

Upon reading the Article in Wednesday's (Feb. 22) Spectrum we saw several incorrect statements regarding Spring Fest in your article titled "If Spectrum Ran Spring Fest."

Sound System. In several different articles the Spectrum has referred to the "Alumni Arena Sound System." Please be aware that although the Arena does in fact have a sound system, it is in no way, shape or form capable of running Spring Fest and has never been used at Spring Fest. The sound systems that we use for Fests are either brought in by the band or rented from local production companies. These are top of the line, state of the art sound systems. The resulting problems within the arena are due to the concrete walls. The Arena was designed as a sports arena, not as a concert venue.

Outdoor Shows. We always plan for an outdoor show if we believe it is possible. However, many bands have inclement weather clauses that often state that anything below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and any rain is a cause to cancel their performance. This is why we don't call Fests as an indoor or outdoor show until three days before the event. Also, if the field is muddy we have several large obstacles to overcome. Getting the trucks and busses in and out without being entrapped, as well as the crowd causing damage to the field is a problem. Although most of these problems can be alleviated, to do so could double the cost of production.

Waynestock.The Waynestock idea is a good one, but becomes impossible for one reason alone, insurance. The university does not cover the insurance for our shows. As such, we must purchase separate insurance for our shows. There are certain criteria that we must meet in order to obtain this insurance. One item is that every person in a crowd of 2,000 or more people must pass through metal detectors. We could attempt to find a less reputable insurance agent who might be willing to forego the metal detectors. However, we feel that having a reputable insurance carrier is a better and safer choice.

Talent. Finally, we come to the artists. We always aim high in hopes of a big name, but achieving so is not always the case. These big name bands (especially if they are on tour) make it extremely difficult to add others to the show bill. We always try to add other names, but many bands have a list of others that they are not willing to play with. This was the case for Fall Fest '05 (Incubus) and Fall Fest '06 (Kanye West) and many other Fests prior to these. They both said, "If you want us to come, you can not add anyone." It becomes a matter of what's more important; should we have the hottest name in music perform, or should we bring acts that will only appeal to half the crowd. Neither decision is an easy one.

Conclusion. Yes, it is true that UB is a well-known and respected venue for shows, and yes, it is true that we have a bigger budget then most schools, but this does not guarantee that the band will select UB as a stop on their schedule. Often, bands are either unavailable or just not routing through the area.

There are many variables that come into making a fest or any concert happen for a college, let alone a college the size of UB. Before writing an article such as "If The Spectrum ran Spring Fest," perhaps it would be a good idea to come talk to us and see what it takes to make shows like these happen.