Patrick McNamara, on Hell Yeah Detroit!, provides perspective on the rising prices at the annual techno fest in Hart Plaza, praising the Paxahau organizers for being up front with fans.
In the old days (circa 2000), it was free, and that was one of the things that made the festival formerly known as the Detroit Electronic Music Festival (DEMF) special. Since 2006, production company Paxahau has been in charge of the festival (changing the name to Movement), and it’s been getting better every year. As a result of the increase in quality and popularity, ticket prices have been going up. This year the general admission ticket price is soon going to break the $100 mark. In an honorable and down to earth gesture, Paxahau felt they should write a letter to Detroiters and explain why the ticket prices would be increased.
Paxahau's letter says, in part:
Our entire reason for writing this letter is to inform you, Detroit supporters, that due to the de facto rising costs of producing events of this scope, our presale GA three-day tickets will rise above that $100 mark for the 2014 festival. Most events would simply raise the fee and put tickets on sale. However, we feel that we have an obligation to explain why this milestone is happening this year. Regardless, we will still be two to three times less expensive than most competing festivals out there, and on par with a market value ticket to see one or two large concerts in regular venues.
