I know this has been discussed before in threads on "busking", but a combination of anecdotal info, a couple of Mudcat posts, and the experience of several of my friends and one student, has made me extremely ticked off.It would appear that the "soots'nties' simply can't live with the idea of independant performers (who are good enough) earning their livings without becoming card-carrying establishment robots.
Here in Toronto, street performers must audition (for verrry mainstream musicians) in order to purchase a license allowing them to play in selected subways. Without proper accreditation they're hassled constantly on the street by the cops.
Busker "Festivals" (Corporate sponsored of course) are organized which imply to the public that these wacky jugglers, comics, and fiddlers, just want to be "one big goofy starving entertainment family"...happy to follow the rules set down by the Mayors, Councils and Police Chiefs.
They don't of course. Successful street performers have been independant business people for hundreds of years. They need huge smarts, talent, and serious people skills...and generally they've chosen to MAKE their own rules, rather than falling in line. THAT'S what I think angers the rule makers more than anything else.
Dammit, a skilled old-time music performer is ILLEGAL, and some promoter can make millions on a "street Festival" because the Soots'nties' palms are greased!
Yah, I know most of the time I try to laugh at sheer stupidity and greed, and often find myself saying "it's so bad it's funny", but obviously, not right now.
Vent ended.
"PEARLY KINGS and QUEENS"? Anyone got any info on how long they've been around, what they did in the old days, and are they still allowed to perform on the streets?
Rick
P.S. I know I'm sounding like Larry (INOBU) but sometimes Toronto can piss ya off as much as New York!