[Callers] Festival Applications

[Chris Weiler]

I realized last night that I had let the deadlines pass for the 
performer applications for Down East and NEFFA this year. I also 
realized that part of the reason that I let them pass was because I 
wasn't sure what was expected on the forms. Here are the questions I 
should have asked weeks ago:

Generally the festivals provide 1 hour slots. Do you put a theme with a 
short description onto the application, or can you just request a slot 
and figure out the theme later? How much do callers try and do something 
totally original or do they pick a theme that hasn't been done in a 
while? Do you work out something with a band before, or does the 
festival scheduler pair you up?

I would enjoy hearing how some of the callers with festival experience 
approach the application process.

Thanks!
Chris