Backstage Views

Saturday, August 13^th was a brutally hot day. Despite this, when the Maymont gates were opened, I was able to witness dedicated patrons pouring in at an unwavering pace. During this time and for the duration of the festival, I was working behind the Virginia is for Lovers Stage. I had my hands full for the majority of the festival, assisting in managing the artists and the production crew all the while trying to stay as hydrated and as cool as possible. After this busy first day, nothing was as rewarding as finally being able to witness the patron and artist experience come to fruition during a performance. At the end of the day on Saturday, as I tiredly ascended the ramp to the back of the stage and plopped down on empty equipment cases, I was suddenly recharged by the sight of the band, the energy and size of the crowd, and the phenomenal sound of the music emanating from Herbie Hancock’s performance. It was a lesson in perspective, as seeing the unparalleled sight of live music in action made all of the hard work worth it. It left me both inspired and motivated, ready to tackle day 2 of the 7^th annual Richmond Jazz Festival.