I found Andrea Van Der Kamp's lecture fantastic! She really gave a clear picture of not only fundraising, but also how to take a project and really run with it. I think the topic of urban architecture as a tourism grab was a great topic for this course. It was interesting to study the "bilbao effect" both as a positive and negative thing. While it may initially attract millions to see a new structure, that structure must have unique or interesting programing that goes on within it (or else be iconic, such as the statue of liberty or memorials on the national lawn in DC). Ms. Van Der Kamp stressed how important the programming at Disney Hall is to ensuring that is doesn't fizzle out, but rather continues to revitalize the downtown area.

The presentations have also been interesting to watch. Despite the guide provided, there is still a variety of approaches that were taken (ie. some groups chose to analyze competition more than stress the tourism effects, etc.) I thought that each group really indentified with and were excited by the festival that they chose. I learned the most from the Tribeca Film Festival group, as they chose an event that has changed so much in such a short time. This kind of dynamisim is exciting, but also needs to be controlled. But I think it's important to recognize how festivals can grow, expand, and change; in some cases, becoming completely different festivals! I think this occurs as festivals attempt to stay up with changes and new trends in the marketing competing for attendance. I don't, however, believe that festivals should be untrue to their origins by completely changing. For example, I think it's ok for the Tribeca Film Festival to "sell out" and become less of an independent film festival and more of a hollywood-style film festival. But, I don't think that the San Genaro Festival should include food vendors from other nationalities, as this is completely contray to their identify! People will attend that festival to experience Italian-American culture, not just to eat some food. Therefore, incorporating Asian or other ethnic food would really injure the festival's identity.