Miskin 2008?

Subject: Miskin 200u8?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 26 Nov 07 - 09:11 PM

Will there be one?

Hope so, it's one of my fav festivals and I had severe withdrawal symptoms last year.

Are you up for it this year Andy?

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: GUEST,The Barden of England sans cookie
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 01:29 AM

I really hope this lovely festival will be on again next year as, like Zany Mouse, I really missed it this year.

John Barden

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 04:09 AM

Agreed.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 04:40 AM

Me too. I have the awful feeling that if it were on we'd have heard by now. Keeping my fingers crossed though

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 05:34 AM

Perhaps a discrete enquiry to the council who will have to give the appropriate licences for this?

I never went, but it sounded like a good little festival. I hope it continues.

LTS

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 05:45 AM

I think we MUST leave council contact to Miskin Man.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: GUEST,flying cat
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 06:25 AM

last ime I spoke to Andy (earlier this month) it did'nt look likely.
Real shame. Moira

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: My guru always said
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 07:53 AM

If I had 3 wishes, I know what at least one of them would be. I'm sure if Andy could make it happen then he will move heaven and earth to do so and he'll let us know asap!!

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Schantieman
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 09:21 AM

If I had three wishes, the first thing I'd wish for would be a load more wishes.   THEN I'd wish for Miskin!


Steve

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Tradsinger
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 12:58 PM

I have heard (2nd hand) that Andy says it won't happen. Shame.

Tradsinger

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Mrs Scarecrow
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 03:32 PM

I hope that's not right but I fear it is. I shall like many of us be really sad without Miskin

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 03:40 PM

Without revisiting the saga about this, is it possible that someone else might run it at the same site?

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Dave Earl
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 05:00 PM

Oh bugger!!

Last Easters cancellation was about the worst news I had.

Please if at all possible let this lovely gathering of friends happen in 2008.

We all know what went wrong in 2007 and I wonder if a substitute team/committee of organizers can be put together so that it can happen in 2008. I would hope that there are any number of people out there who could lend a hand.

Hoping for the best

Dave

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 06:54 PM

Probably a bit late for 2008 now. But a new committee, with a new chairman of the committee, with arm's length advice (and introductions to contacts) from historical figures might stand a chance of getting a licence and a guest roster for 2009. It might be useful if the new chairman was very firmly on the square, too.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: vectis
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 07:09 PM

I reckon that a new site out of the immediate area of Miskin would stand a better chance. A place where the site hasn't had a licence rejected.
I have one possible English site semi-sussed which is fairly central if anyone is interested.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 08:04 PM

I think a mini festival in 2008 is feasible at Miskin. Perhaps we could have a gathering, on a reduced scale, on a private party basis?

Just a thought
Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Joe Offer
Date: 27 Nov 07 - 08:08 PM

http://www.miskinfolk.co.uk/ is the Website for the Miskin Folk Festival. It sounds like it was a wonderful gathering. It's a shame that it was cancelled last year.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 03:13 AM

I feel that the site was a part of the magic

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 04:07 AM

I agree Richard. I don't think it would be the same anywhere else. I also don't know if the 'magic' would be quite the same with anyone else but Andy actually running it. I hope Andy is not too despondant about it and will try for 2009 perhaps?

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 05:45 AM

Yes, Miskin is the perfect festival site.

How does the law stand on private parties? Woulld it be possible?

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 10:50 AM

In practice, given the need to sell beer and food, and the complication of making sure that the provision of music was not either public nor with a view to profit (for anyone) itis not viable to organise a non-licenseable private party.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Soupdragon
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 03:20 PM

THERE ARE A LOT OF THINGS GOING ON OVER THE FESTIVAL AND ANDY HAS HAD A LOT OF HIDDEN SUPPORT AND HE KNOWS HOW A LOT OF PEOPLE FEEL.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 05:28 PM

Lovely as it sounds and wonderful as I'm sure it was, I can't help but notice an underlying current of 'it won't be the same anywhere else' happening here.

Surely ANY folk festival happening on ANY approved site is better than a few people gathering sadly in one place saying how great it used to be. Look how many other festivals and gatherings have moved away from their original organisers or locations and gone on to bigger and better things?

LTS

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Folkiedave
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 05:31 PM

There was a whole discussion on the "moving of festivals" at the Association of Conference Organisers two weekends ago.

Beverley is thinking of moving for example.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: vectis
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 06:20 PM

Last year someonf found a site within spitting distance of the original which had all the necessary facilities but it was booked. With a longer lead-in time would they be willing to go back and try again this year for 2008?

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: the lemonade lady
Date: 28 Nov 07 - 08:01 PM

How many folksingers does it take to change a lightbulb?

One to change it.
The rest sing about how much better it was in the old days.

Isn't all this talk just what this joke is all about?

If Miskin can't happen next year I know of a lovely little licenced farm in South Staffs where we could sing our hearts out if only for 2008. Then with luck we can all go back to Miskin. I did try to choose these words carefully but it seems to me that no matter what i post these days, i'm misunderstood.

Sally

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 29 Nov 07 - 07:18 AM

Well that sounds good Sal.

For those who haven't been to Miskin, it's not like any other folk festival. (Alright, I know each and every one is different but I've been to loads and Miskin is truely unique). Part of what makes it so wonderful is the beautiful, enclosed site beside the river. You really feel as thought the rest of the world is a different place while you're there. I would rather we had some sort of gathering for 2008 than nothing at all, but I really hope it can be the Miskin we all know and worship in the future.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 29 Nov 07 - 07:49 AM

How about coming to the Chepstow Festival in July 2008 instead?

chepstow two rivers folk festival

regards

EWIS

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: GUEST,guest fidjit, in Norway
Date: 29 Nov 07 - 09:52 AM

Oooh Can I come? I wouldn't mind that. Right on my 75th. birthday. Would be nice that.

Chas

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 29 Nov 07 - 09:58 AM

I was a steward this year at the festival in Chepstow,brilliant festival.



Scooby.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 29 Nov 07 - 10:30 AM

It's my local fest! It's new, it's just starting... could be something and it's a lovely town, but then I'm biased!

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 30 Nov 07 - 10:41 AM

It sounds good, Ella, but it is in July, not Easter.

I missed all the ballyhoo about Miskin last year (I was in hospital) and have only just read it. Quite a surprise!

A thought comes to mind. Andy, have you thought about making this an adults only festival? Surely that would solve the problem. Do you think it would alter the festival too much?

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Mrs Scarecrow
Date: 30 Nov 07 - 04:45 PM

I suppose it is definate that its not happening is it. theres been no formal announcement

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 30 Nov 07 - 05:02 PM

No information at all as yet. I'm hoping Andy will join this thread.

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 30 Nov 07 - 05:18 PM

This will not be a pleaant thread for Andy to join. There is a lot of unpleasant history to this. I would not expect him here in public, and I do not think we should ask him to appear.

If others who have the potential to organise either a Miskin or a Miskin Tribute PM Andy then there are three obvious possible ways forward.

First, an application for what is basically Miskin, at Easter, at Miskin by a person observably and demonstrably not connected to the 2006 organisers or "shadow organisers". I see no proper legal objection to that.

Second, an "adults only" Miskin at Miskin at Easter but I bet my bottom dollar the police will still make representations against the grant of the licence, and litigation is not the way forward.

Either of the above face a timescale problem.

Third, a "Miskin Tribute" elsewere and elsewhen. The objective can be achieved by adding tribute to any relevant existing planned festival.


On a slightly different tack, I suspect that the police objections were not really on the ostensible grounds. I suspect that someone with a dark blue apron has an axe to grind. I suspect there is a nimby on the square. Not just on the square. So a substitute organiser will need to have some very good connections. Very very good connections.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: MBSLynne
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 05:20 AM

A child free Miskin would lose a large part of the point of Miskin as a family festival. In fact, apart from having my own children to think about (and Shady would be DEVASTATED if Miskin were on and she couldn't go) I wouldn't attend a festival which was adults only. I know at least one other person who would not and I suspect there would be others. Part of the thing I love about the whole folk ethos is the way children are welcomed, accepted and treated, not as a separate species as is so often the case, but as reasonable humans whose company is enjoyable.

I think the same applies to all this as applied last year....leave it to Andy and Jilly and if they either don't want to or can't run Miskin again then we have to accept that that's the end of it. Set up an alternative someone, by all means, but make it a new festival.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Scooby Doo
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 07:56 AM

Can we please let this thread go through without any if and but's.
Thanks everybody.



Scooby

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Mr Red
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 08:32 AM

No.

If is positive, if can move people. A stab in the dark doesn't have to strike - only glint. And be seen to.

South Staffs - given my Staffordshire heritage and family in Lichfield my radar is scanning.
Not an if but the difference?

Miskin is cosy, Bushbury could be similar - a ceilidh would not happen.

And I am sure local hostelries and Co-op would welcome beer sales from any site. So a licence is an inconvenience not a barrier. Surely folkies can organise a beer run. Probably needs two a day.

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 08:43 AM

That sounds like a good possibility, Mr Red. Let's hear more!

Scooby: This thread wasn't intended to cause anyone pain in any way (you know me better than that). Andy knows that he has my full support in every way.

Lynne: Yes, you're quite correct and I know I wouldn't want the character of Miskin to change. I was just trying to find a way forward.

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 09:42 AM

Richard: You said: First, an application for what is basically Miskin, at Easter, at Miskin by a person observably and demonstrably not connected to the 2006 organisers or "shadow organisers". I see no proper legal objection to that.

Would you be prepared to do that? With your professional standing you would be in a better position than most. I'm sure you would find lots of help.

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Mr Red
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 10:03 AM

Beer run.
Just thinking aloud but if the beer seller(s) produced a list, all it needs is person(s) to take orders and money. And carry. Friends do that all the time. Licencing laws mean that legal advice is needed but.................. It is really down to the willing. And maybe a donation from the seller in advance would help. Legal advice needed again. A little planning on the day.
or.
At the Malvern Fringe years ago we just nominated a company to handle the beer. They organised everything alcoholic thereafter. Licence, glasses, barrels, staff. I would bet there are such peripatetic pubs in all locales. Planning in advance.
I personally am quite happy to buy my own cider - because it usually comes down to "Strongbow" by default and that ain't cider (cider with added sugars and sweeteners - maybe).
As I understand it, a private party cannot charge entrance on the door and be a private party.
Now a birthday or wedding? Presents in sealed envelopes? any takers? NOT ME, OK?

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 12:36 PM

No, I can't be the applicant, because I am the other side of the country and plainly unable to organise the event. It would be an obvious pretence...

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 12:54 PM

I, like Lynne, would never attend an adult only festival. I am very sad that Miskin may not reappear and Andy knows he has our full support should there be any way round it. I would not be concerned about no alcohol sales, after all you can always take your own. Not sure how things would stand if it was an invitee only event and we could voluntarily contribute to the cost?

Subject: RE: Miskin 2008?
From: vectis
Date: 01 Dec 07 - 12:58 PM

All the festivals like Miskin need the beer sales to offset some of the costs of hiring venues, artists covering food costs etc. Losing the beer sales could make the whole thing financially non viable.