Movement 2008 sets the festival bar high

Movement 2008 sets the festival bar high

17 June, 2008 | 8.09PM

• Section: Music News Topics: Movement 2008
• Written by: Sarah O

Movement 2008: Detroit Electronic Music Festival went off fabulously last month, and if the good times and choice music alone wasn’t enough, then the real proof is in the numbers.

Paxahau, a promotions group within the electronic music industry and the producers of the three-day festival, have just revealed that attendance from this year’s festival was unprecedented, having far exceeded the set goal of 60,000, and in fact hitting the 80,000 mark.

Attendance numbers were based on the use of turnstiles to track festival goers, a new method for the long-time running event.

Perhaps the heads up that the event was going to be more massive than anticipated came when pre-sale numbers tripled from last year, three weeks before the event. 

Festival director Jason Huvaere of Paxahau said, “It’s amazing to now have actual attendance numbers that equate to real economic benefits for the City of Detroit, as well as the festival, and exhibits the venue’s true capacity.”

In addition to such tremendous participation, 3,000 pounds of recyclables were collected over the three-day event. 

Teamed up with local recycling organizations, Paxhau instituted ten recycling tents staffed with volunteers that collected cans, bottles and paper.

Huvaere stated, “We experienced a remarkable and memorable event this year. 

“Reaction from everyone involved, including sponsors, artists, media, and fans was incredibly positive. 

“We definitely set a new benchmark for the festival, and I am excited about planning next year’s event.”

From the robust artist lineup to the enhanced sound systems, this year’s festival proved that Movement is only on the rise, and that we can expect it to be only bigger and better, next time around.

“We’re all about showcasing renowned, established artists while also giving up-and-coming talent an opportunity to reach a broader audience,” said Huvaere. 

“Most important, however, the festival further expands Detroit’s reputation for inspiring the electronic music scene – and the foundation for the creative renaissance being led by electronic music artists everywhere who recognize the importance of being a part of this cultural phenomenon.”

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• Check out a chart for the Movement 2008 Beatport Stage