Plan as You Might…
By Ry, AKA
RHATH
Howdy, Ry here.
I've been thinking lately about the successful nights we've been running over the past 12 months and what matters to me most when it comes to hosting events. It's a constant trial and error process, the same as any creative process, and I'm still trying to figure out a lot.
I've been running small events for 10 years now in various formats. At times, I've thought I never wanted to host another one, but much more often than not, I find it extremely fulfilling.
I think it's a fascinating type of creative process that can be very daunting and chaotic. You can plan as much as you want (and should), but as soon as the doors open, predictions go out the window. There is a stupid quote that stuck in my brain years ago that applies, though in a very inappropriate way. "Plans never survive contact with the enemy". The audience is in no way your enemy, but the chaos of people will certainly disregard any plans you've made.
But this is a big part of what I adore about running nights.
There are two main points that keep me doing this after so long.
1. The chaos; making swift decisions and keeping things moving calmly through unpredictable situations. And discovering single incredible moments that no one saw coming, and often only last in our collective memory once the night is over.
2. Providing a space to create; giving people the framework and freedom to showcase their talent and to experiment.
As with most creative projects, jobs, or anything else you do in life, it's good to find the core reasons why you enjoy it. I would say that allows you to focus on the process and outcomes you love, rather than what you believe is expected of such a venture.
Vibe Union has always been community focused, for these reasons. I didn't always realise that, but over time I have come to. There are crews that create the biggest and best parties, or the most transcendental multimedia experiences. We might create those types of nights at some point. But the one thing we do now, and I always plan to, is create an open stage for people to try some new shit. Embrace some chaos and experiment artistically in front of a welcoming and supportive crowd.
We couldn't do that without all of you. So thank you for helping us keep that goal alive and well.
Those are my thoughts. Catch ya next time.
-Ry
If you enjoy what we do, if you want to support us (Purely optional mind you), consider supporting us on Patreon. A few dollars goes a long way in keeping the lights on, paying for our website and helping us do more cool stuff.
Graphics by Rhath
