Newport Folk 2020 - July 31-August 2

What’s everyone’s take on the seating at the Harbor and Quad?

On one hand, I love it. It’s unique. It allows for more intimate performances between the artist and the fans. It’s a break from the sun and allows demographics who might not be able to stand in the sun get up close and personal with the artists. And it’s the way things have been.

But, I had some really negative experiences at the Harbor Stage this year. And... the more I think about it... the more I realize how I’ve always disliked the Harbor Stage and actively avoid it if I don’t think I can get over to it not long after the act before the one I want to see finishes their set.

I was able to get third row standing along one of the interior pathways (which allowed for a breeze and a better view because I was half in the shade)... a nice spot for Nilufer Yanya. But I spent a lot of the set fighting distractions from what I’ll call “seat vultures”. Individuals who would walk up to the front every few minutes to see if there were seats available in the tent. You could tell they had little to no interest in the act performing; it was if they wanted a spot out of the sun and a seat in the tent was their best bet. All while there were people standing in front of me who had been there for a while, super interested in the act that was performing, and hoping to get into the tent. Unfortunately the “vultures” often won because it’s hard to be fully immersed in the music and fighting for the elusive seat.

This was especially troubling as I watched many people who were in the tent texting or playing Candy Crush during the set. They didn’t sing along when asked. They skipped clapping after a song. (Yes I’ve also seen magical moments where the artist on stage would win these people over and you could witness awe as someone trying to escape the sun discovered a new favorite band; but this shouldn’t come at the expense of another artist playing a good set that didn’t captivate for some reason.)

Has anyone else noticed or experienced this? It seems to happen at both stages, but is worse at the Harbor because there are fewer seats. Additionally, it’s more of an issue at the Harbor because the Harbor lacks good sightlines as soon as you are outside of the tent. Standing more than a few rows back, and you might as well not even try unless you’re above 6 feet. At least the Quad provides a video screen for anyone looking for a good view but can’t get into the tent.

I’m not saying that Newport should forgo the seats. I’d just love to see a better system to ensure those interested in the act playing get the seats. Maybe the first 4-6 rows could get automatically cleared out after every set so that a new batch of people who are interested in the next act can take them over (similar to how pits are operated at many music fests)? And maybe construction of a few shaded seating areas around the festival grounds so anyone looking to escape the sun isn’t limited to a seat up front for a musical act?

*This is not a complaint saying an aspect of the fest is bad. Simply, that I think there is room for improvement over the status quo.