As we begin asking our guests where they are from and if they are in town for the festival, I find myself feeling slightly nostalgic and, quite frankly, guilty that I am not participating in the gearing up for this incredible event.
Since I moved here in 2011, I have worked for the Sudance Institute and supported the magic and celebration of the Sundance Film Festival from the inside. I built relationships with wonderful people and learned that I am REALLY good at organizing and planning. I had an "All-Access" credential and have yet to use the phrase, "DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM" and mean it. I had parking passes, a cell phone that was guaranteed reception at all locations in Park City, housing when needed, and a support system of friends and co-workers who were all going through the same experience. I had more ticket vouchers than I knew what to do with and surprised all of my friends with a night out to see a CRAZY Ryan Reynolds film last year ("The Voices"). We lived off of bagels and coffee and 3 hours of sleep - and, now claiming to be "Faileo" (Paleo, but I fail at it EVERY time), I wouldn't change it for anything.
This year, I am experiencing the festival as a local - yes folks, a local.
...And I feel so guilty.
As I watch the venues going up, see those Kenneth Cole jackets on the volunteer coming to town, and hear the excitement on Main Street, I can't help but feel as though I should be connected to an IV of caffeinated goodness and bossing people around to assure that every venue, theatre, line, tent, sign, green room, and volunteer are in the right places for this coming Thursday night. I know that those people are out there - the ones making it all happen - and I want to be there too.
With that being said, I'm going to be a local this year. And embrace it.
I will be purchasing my groceries 2 weeks before hand. I no longer will have the big SUV with the parking pass that allows me to park on the sidewalk and drive into on-coming traffic. You will find me on the bus (or hitchhiking down Park Ave). I will be in the wait list line and purchasing my tickets like everyone else, they are no longer complimentary. I will also continue on my Faileo endeavor and avoiding all bagels for the 10 days - Yes, I will commit to this. Hold me to it! Chances are good that Verizon will black out with all of the people in town trying to FaceBook and Instagram the who's who at Sundance (myself included).
Don't forget to thank the volunteers and staff of the Sundance Institute. They don't hear it enough - trust me.
I'm excited to hear how you all enjoy the festival activities this year. Stop by the store to share your experiences with us.
And I will be happy and excited to share some stories with you.
HAPPY FESTING!
Glee
