An Important message from Britt Festivals’ Chairman of the Board
Over the last few years, Britt Festivals’ board and staff have been carefully reviewing and adjusting our alcohol policy. We deeply appreciate your patience and input during this time, and are writing to let you know the results of this review.
In 2012, Britt began prohibiting outside alcohol on a few select shows. This trial allowed us to better understand any impact of a possible change in policy. Based on these experiences, we have carefully considered feedback from our patrons, artists, donors, and other stakeholders. At this time, we believe it is appropriate to communicate our policy going forward, which we believe provides the safest and most enjoyable concert-going experience for everyone.
Based on the anticipated concerts in the 2014 season, we will designate a minimum of ten performances for which outside alcohol will be prohibited. Beer and wine will be available for purchase, and Britt is proud to work with local wineries to provide a high-quality selection. The concerts selected will be announced along with the season lineup, and are chosen by staff and security personnel according to:
1. Concerts with higher risk factors for alcohol-related incidents – Some of our concerts have proven to have a higher probability for alcohol abuse. We will make our decisions based on our past experience with the artist, feedback from security staff, and what we learn about an artist’s performance in other markets. While the concert selection process may not be perfect, it will allow us to monitor, control, and reduce overconsumption and mitigate our impact on the surrounding community.
2. The economic benefit for the Britt Festivals – Britt is a non-profit organization, and we rely on varied sources of income in order to maintain our quality performance line-up, community education, and outreach. Many artists command very high fees, and this policy will help to keep ticket prices lower while ensuring our proud tradition of exceptional concerts.
Alcohol awareness is a trending factor in festivals throughout the United States. Since Britt was founded, 51 years ago, regulations regarding alcohol usage in public parks (like Britt) and alcohol consumption monitoring have changed considerably. We recognize Britt’s previous alcohol policy was widely enjoyed and believe that this measured approach will serve the organization, and our patrons, as we ensure Britt’s viability for another 50 years. The Board’s intention is to leave this policy in place as long as legal, insurance, and financial conditions allow. No concerts in the already-announced Classical Festival will be affected by this policy.
Again, thank you for your support as we worked through this policy, and thank you for your ongoing commitment to bring top-level musical experiences to southern Oregon. We all look forward to seeing you on the Hill this summer.
Best regards,
Matthew Patten
Chairman, Britt Festivals Board of Directors
Posted March 7, 2014