Despite periods of torrential downpours, gusty winds and dodging mud puddles, the 11th annual Music Is Art Festival was abound with music, dancing and plenty of spectators at Delaware Park on Saturday. The rain did put a damper on attendance, but not on the spirit of the event or the performers.
Those who braved the weather were certainly treated to a flood of local talent. With over 100 bands on eight (8) stages, a comedy tent, live art, photography, DJs, food, beverages, and even a village for the kids, this event is a big deal and it really shows Robby Takac’s commitment to Buffalo. Takac is one of the founding members of the Goo Goo Dolls. He is also founder and president of Music Is Art.
The day long event had something for everyone with a variety of performances. There were three main stages at the foot of the staircase behind the Albright Knox Art Gallery. These stages had alternating 15 minute performances for continuous entertainment. Along with all the entertainment of the day, a beautiful moment was shared as Miyoko Takac (Robby’s wife) took to the main stage and shaved her head to benefit cancer research.
Folk, country and blues dominated the Americana stage. The Sky Mound DJ Stage overlooked Hoyt Lake where DJ Basha boomed plenty of bass for dubstep dancers surrounding the stage and for hula hoopers on the cement below the wooded mound he was atop of. As you walked from stage to stage, you couldn’t help stopping to peek at the live art and other displays that filled the landscape. Aside from people on table tops adorned in themed gowns and costumes, zombies were walking about and had a tent set up where you could be transformed into a zombie too.
Admittedly, I too took cover when the heavy rain poured down. Besides the various tents that provided shelter, the Delaware Park Marcy Casino was also open and everyone was welcome to be a VIP for a modest donation to the cause ($50.00). It was a safe haven with food and drink. Take note that this is a huge event and admission is free! Finishing off the night with some incredible performances by Necktie Tourniquet, the Super Killer Robots… who enthusiastically lead the festival faithfuls in a super killer sing along, and dancer Rasa Vitalia on main stages 1, 2 and 3, I am already looking forward to MiA Festival 2014!
All Photos by BackstageAxxess Correspondent Michael Mietlicki
To learn more about Music is Art, check out the website at Music is Art.
