Author(s): Alin Vaida / Language(s): Romanian
Issue: 2/2024
Alin Vaida, the founder of Jazz in the Park in Cluj-Napoca, discusses the
festival’s collaboration with the Ethnographic Park, initiated due to the pandemic
restrictions that limited events to 500 spectators. This move that started in 2020,
created a unique blend of jazz music within an open-air museum setting, providing
a distinct and harmonious atmosphere that aligns with the festival’s concept of creating
a micro-universe where people connect emotionally.
The Ethnographic Park, with its hidden energy and historical backdrop, offered a
complementary environment for the festival, leading to a reinvention of the festival.
This new location brought stability, new opportunities for community engagement,
and innovative projects. It attracted a different audience and allowed for creative
experimentation, which was not feasible in Central Park.
The partnership greatly benefits the museum through increased visibility
and new opportunities stemming from the festival’s national communication campaign.
This collaboration enhances the museum’s reputation, making it more inclusive
and recreational. Conversely, the festival gains prestige, seriousness, and a more
respectful audience due to the museum’s influence.
However, challenges exist. The festival faces risks due to limited control over
the space and potential over-replication of the model by others, which could dilute
its uniqueness. Logistical challenges also arise as the park is primarily a museum,
requiring significant adaptations for the event. The museum faces pressure during
the festival days and managing the increased attention can be demanding. Despite
these challenges, the partnership is an example of good practices within the local
community, showcasing mutual benefits. In a country with limited dedicated spaces
for performing arts, such collaborations are essential. The relationship between Jazz
in the Park and the Ethnographic Museum highlights the symbiotic nature of events
and locations, demonstrating how each can enhance the other’s role in the
community.
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