Q&A with Mandy Carr, VCF 2010 Performance Chair

Attention Performers:

We see you! Although, the large stage is fully booked, Via Colori® Fredericksburg is still seeking entertainment acts to perform on the smaller, YET AS IMPORTANT stage--smaller in size, not in excellence. Additionally, we're still on the hunt for roving performers. Sign up at http://www.viacolori.com/

In this Q&A, we speak with Mandy Carr, VCF 2010 Performance Chair, about the importannce of performance to Via Colori® Fredericksburg:

Q1.) Tell us a little about yourself, your role as the Performer Chair, and why you joined the VCF 2010 team.

A1.) I was a high school music teacher and currently direct the Voices of the Pops (open to anyone who enjoys singing in a choral group). I find myself doing many music things in the community and enjoy organizing events. I was asked to chair the entertainment part of Via Colori since I have contacts and musical experience. I like giving back to the community and felt like I could help a bit with the exciting premier Via Colori Fredericksburg event.



Q2.) What role does the "performer" play in this festival?

A2.) Although the main focus of Via Colori is on the artists, performers/entertainers will give the community another taste of the "arts community" in the area by providing various types entertainment.



Q3.) Who qualifies as a performer? What is VCF looking for?

A3.) The VCF is encouraging anyone who likes to entertain to go to viacolori, click on Fredericksburg and go to performance artist sign up. We are looking for large groups like churches, schools and community groups. Choral groups, bands, orchestras, drum lines, acting troupes, comedy and dancers, are welcome to apply as well as semi professional and professional soloists or groups. In addition we are looking for magicians, balloon artists, jugglers etc. Anyone who has a talent that would appeal to an audience and has a family friendly act is encouraged to apply.



Q4.) Traditional stage performance aside, is there also a call for roaming performers?

A4.) We definitely need strolling performers of all types. We want to encourage all types of entertainment. Actually we have one barbershop group and a 50's group and could use many more.



Q5.) What should a participating performer bring to the festival? For instance, must a musical act bring his/her/their own sound equipment?

A5.) Some sound equipment will be provided but most bands prefer to bring a lot of their own stuff.



Q6.) Via Colori® Fredericksburg will feature two entertainment stages. We assume that Stage One and Stage Two only differ in location. Will performers be assigned to a stage? Can a performer request a specific time to showcase?

A6.) There are two stages. One is a large stage and one is smaller. Performers can request their preference for the large stage, small stage or strolling. Some stage chairs will also be provided. After performers are notified of acceptance, more info will be given about the logistics. The application gives the entertainers an option for requesting specific times and days (Saturday or Sunday).



Q7.) How long does an on-stage performance last?

A7.) Each of the entertainers can request a 30 minute or 60 minute time slot. This will need to include set up and take down time in addition to performing.



Q8.) What is expected of a performer? (Please include code of conduct and any logistical information here, like age requirements and the tangential chaperone qualifications.)

A8.) All entertainers should have a family friendly act/performance. Conduct should be professional and take into account that all ages will be involved in the weekend as participants or audience members. Anyone under the age of 18 should have an adult as a "chaperone".



Q9.) All VCF participants volunteer their time, service, and art. Therefore, we ask: does VCF require a contract/rider from performers? Will there be an informational meeting for performers, or will participants receive an entertainment packet providing details?

A9.) Performers and entertainers will be given further info when their application is accepted as a participant in Via Colori.


Q10.) Can performers sell merchandise?

A10.) If performers would like to sell merchandise they will need to sign up as a vendor and pay a small fee then they can sell for the entire two day event.

Q11.) Now that we understand what VCF seeks and salutes, how does someone sign up to perform?

A11.) It is easy to sign up. Just go to viacolori, click on Fredericksburg and go to performance artist sign up. Details will be available there as well as the application.

Q12.) Is there anything else we should know about the entertainment at VCF 2010?

A12.) We would like to have all types of entertainment. This will be the time to showcase your talent!!! Come and enjoy the fun at our very first VIA Colori Fredericksburg.

[End.]

If you entertain, we want to hear from you...immediately! Non-traditional entertainment welcome. Variety appreciated. If you have any further questions or comments, please email , subject line: Performer c/o Mandy.

A reminder to entertainers: This is a family event, so material must be suitable for the Via Colori® audience. We aren't afraid to give the hook--contracted the [ghost of the] Sandman for this very reason!