Where’s the love?

I thought that Sean Davidson’s article ‘Banff gets of to shaky start’ (Playback, June 21, p.1) missed the mark. The opening ceremonies, which commenced with Michael Ignatieff’s inspirational speech entitled ‘Media Responsibilities in an Age of Terror,’ followed by the CBC’s lovely opening reception, through the flawless Rockie Awards was not even acknowledged. He did not capture the euphoric atmosphere which surrounded Banff this year. There were a few technical glitches on Monday morning, as is always the case at events, but that is not the story. The real story is that Banff was an unprecedented success despite the fact that the festival was on the verge of collapse just seven weeks prior to its opening ceremonies.

I spoke with many delegates and found everyone to be extremely positive – expressing their gratitude that Banff’s future is safe given the vital role this festival plays within the Canadian television industry. It is the place where projects get pitched, relationships are formed, developed and solidified, and great programs are born. People felt that Banff 2004 was more democratic and accessible than in recent years.

There is nothing quite like Banff anywhere in the world, and as Canadians we should be very proud of our jewel in the Rockies. This festival is part of the community and Playback is an important part of that community. It is critical that the industry’s journal of record accurately capture the essence of an event as important as Banff – something Mr. Davidson’s article did not do.

Banff is a very special event. It is unfortunate Mr. Davidson focused on a very small portion of the week, not the fabulous success of the whole event.

Loren Mawhinney,

Vice-chairman,

Banff Television Festival Foundation