Festeria

I’m having an amazing time being behind the scenes at such a massive event which is running incredibly smoothly, especially when I can see first hand just how massive an operation it is. Last night as I was walking between my temporary ‘home’ in the production area directly behind the main stage, it was funny to see staff battling to reinforce the fencing separating us and the heaving crowds rocking out to The Prodigy, who even from my limited view were brilliant.

People keep asking me what bands I’ve actually seen, but I’ve only really stopped to watch The Gossip who were ace, and seen snippets of others and heard a lot more as I wander round and round and round. I’m spending most of my time talking to our volunteers and staff working and performing here and battling technology to try and update the Leeds Met website from the Press tent where there are constant interviews going on with people that I don’t quite recognise. In fact the only ‘celeb’ I’ve had contact with is Ian Brown, thanks Rebekka for making me go up for a photo of him!

It feels like I’ve been here for years and walked a million miles, although I’m only on my third day here. And I’ve got it relatively easy, the volunteers are working long and intense shifts running stages, DJing through the night, pandering to bands bizarre whims and giving out information to the masses. Then there’s Rebekka, Caroline, Laura and Patsy who seem to constantly be doing circuits of this massive venue sorting stuff out by phone and walkie-talkie to ensure the volunteers are getting the best possible experience. Everyone I talk to is sleep deprived and aching all over but are incredibly friendly, upbeat and having a brilliant time.

There also seem to be Leeds Met connections dotted all over the place on top of our 130+ volunteers, there are guests coming in on day tickets to see what we’re all up to, past and present students and staff on stage or milling around the guest area and arena and Leeds Met hoodies galore. It’s great to bump in to people all over the place and see just how far and wide the University’s tentacles extend.

Having heard, read and written about the partnership since its formation it’s eye-opening to be here and experience it myself and actually see it for myself. The students are making a great impression and being trusted with really important roles giving them valuable experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives and, in many cases, will open doors for them.