Time To Talk Flipside 2018
Our artistic participation is often driven by the theme that was selected the September before the event. Maybe we choose costumes inspired by the theme, or worked on a project influenced by it. Theme camp events and décor are often driven by the theme. For many people, the event’s theme is a central focal point. Even the effigy design is based off of the theme. So, where does this theme come from? Our theme selection process is as old as the event itself…
The First Regional Event
In 1998, Burning Man Texas became the first Burning Man regional event. Originally created in order to help support the Burning Man event during a financial crisis, Burning Man Texas quickly took on a life of its own and Burning Flipside was born. In the past 20 years, many regionals have sprung up across the state, the nation, and the globe. Each event is different and each event is special. One of the unique features of Burning Flipside is the way that the event theme selection is addressed. Unlike many other events, the “Nevada Regional” included, where a board or committee carefully selects the theme, the theme for each year’s Flipside is voted on by the community during Fall Town Hall.
Being Part of the Magic
How does the community get to participate? During Fall Town Hall, people pitch themes and the community votes. Anyone can suggest a theme- if you feel strongly about a theme, presenting the theme on site and pushing the theme online prior to the event is helpful. You are encouraged to sign in to the secure part of the Burning Flipside website and register your theme proposal. Being that we tend to be a community that values shenanigans and the ridiculous, the voting process is often chaotic. You may notice people try to vote multiple times, with varying degrees of success. “Bribery” is not unusual. Embracing the mayhem and silliness is not a bad idea. Eventually, maybe halfway through Town Hall, the votes are tallied by the AAR, LLC and the winning theme is announced.
What Makes a Good Theme?
Who am I, or you, to judge? Every theme has wild supporters and rabid detractors and that’s okay. Check out the themes we’ve had in the past and think about what sings to your soul. If the theme means anything to you, be involved.
Is The Theme Important?
That’s up to the individual. You may hate the theme that was voted in, choose to ignore it, and still have all the fun anyway. You may love the theme, base all your plans around it, and still have all the fun anyway. It’s up to you. If you hated last year’s theme, present something “better.” Get a group together, be silly, have fun, help make the magic happen. For many, the theme is very important and the process of community participation is cherished.
How To Be Involved
Fall Town Hall is held at the warehouse every September. The 2017 Fall Town Hall will be held on September, 23rd. Tailgating starts at 12:30, the meeting starts at 2:34pm. Whether you’re there to present, to vote, to get event updates, to see our people, your presence is appreciated and encouraged. And don’t forget to have fun!
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