The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival: Build the Future - Engage the Members
On Oct 2nd, the NLFAS sent a letter to the membership stating its financial picture was not as dark as predicted and that it was forging ahead with plans for the 50th NLFF in 2026. This news has been welcomed with delight and relief by many in the folk community.
The letter also promised that committees and consultation would be forthcoming, but no details were given with regards to either the timeline, or the personnel involved in these consults.
This past year, the NL Folk Arts Society experienced grave financial and organizational difficulties resulting in the near-loss of the festival. This created a chaotic period in which governance of the organization was compromised and communication deteriorated between the FAS and its members.
The fact that the FAS produced a successful festival in July has helped restore in part, the trust lost between the members of the FAS and its leadership. A group of members still has questions, concerns, feedback, and ideas that need addressing before it can give the current board a mandate to steer us into the next half-century. We invite the rest of the FAS membership, volunteers, musicians, vendors, NLFAS board directors, employees, and other festival stakeholders to participate in an open, respectful discussion where we can meet face-to-face and share our thoughts on the future of both the FAS and our beloved folk festival. We want to contribute well-grounded, constructive ideas to the planning efforts, consultations and committees the board is undertaking for the 50th NLFF, and we feel it is crucial to begin this process as soon as possible.
The meeting will be co-chaired by Jean Hewson (traditional musician and former FAS president) and Chip Clark (retired organization behaviour consultant). Please note that this meeting is not open to the public at large. To attend, please register with Jean Hewson through Facebook Messenger or by emailing
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Time, date and place: 7:30P.M. – 9:45P.M. Monday October 27 in the Bonavista Room at the Lantern, 35 Barnes Rd. Please note that people will also be able to attend virtually. A link to the meeting will be made available as the date approaches.
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