The Big Bend Sentinel sat down on Tuesday with Stewart Ramser, the producer of Viva Big Bend, to ask him about this year’s music festival, which started yesterday and runs through Sunday.
Ramser, a Fort Worth native who now lives in Austin and part time in Alpine, talked about how much the festival has grown since its humble origins 13 years ago with the first event in 2012.
What’s new and exciting this year?
We’ve got a bunch of new venues this year that should provide a lot of fun — the pool at the Saint George in Marfa, Casa Agave in Presidio, The Desert Ghost Distillery and Ritchey Brothers in Marathon, Skelton’s Runway, the 5th Street Gallery and The Ritchey in Alpine and the Rendezvous in Fort Davis.
What year was your favorite year to date and why?
The first year in 2012. I remember walking around that year and telling people it would still be fun but low attendance. I was surprised by the end of the week, though. People turned up in the last week and it was a huge success. Every year it just gets bigger and better.
What are you looking forward to the most this year?
The reaction from the fans … and well, Bob Schneider, who did the first festival in 2012 and is back again this year.
How do you select the bands?
I have a grid of local bands and popular bands. I try to match the bands with the venues — what band fits best with the local venue. I look for bands that have fun with the crowds, that interact with festival goers.
How do you select the art for the theme or the poster?
Our artist David Loyola has done several years of art for us. We have had other artists over the years, but David has done the last 4 or 5 years of art for Viva. He’s done an amazing job at capturing the spirit of Far West Texas in his work.
What should newbies to the festival know?
There are also free shows in every town hosting events this year, for those on a budget. Everyone should be able to enjoy Viva Big Bend!
Don’t forget to check out the free ukulele class with Kevin Carrol at Planet Marfa on Saturday, July 26, from 2-3 p.m.
For box office locations and hours please go to VivaBigBend.com for more info on tickets, venues, events and a full schedule.Â