Saturday night was the first night in years that our neighbours, my husband and I decided to partake in a Rendezvous event.
We arrived to town early enough that we could wander around and view the snow sculptures and also watch the fireworks. They were absolutely spectacular. Well done Whitehorse.
We were parked at the liquor store lot and right after the fireworks wandered over to the big tent where we had tickets to see the Sheepdogs.
There was a very long lineup already. We joined the line and waited, and waited, and waited.
Many, many people were grumbling about being left outside to freeze. Several times I approached the persons guarding the entrance doors. The first time I asked how long until the doors were opened, and his reply was, “A few more minutes, as the ticket said they didn’t open until 8:45 p.m.”
Fair enough. The few minutes came and went.
After a few more attempts of asking them to open the doors it was finally revealed to us that the opening band was not ready and would not let us in.
At this reveal, the people in line were getting extremely angry, as was I, and there was about to be a stampede if something was not done.
People started to yell “Let us in,” but there was no budging them. I realize they were volunteers, but honestly could someone not have done something to help us? We were not to be let in until that band said so. I still don’t know who they were.
I guess they got the OK as the door was finally opened. However, we were still to have a lengthy wait as there was tickets and ID to be checked first.
In the end, people were left outside for 30 to 45 minutes. Totally unacceptable.
At first it was a relief to get inside to warm up a little, but as the night wore on it just got colder in there, even with all the dancing. We truly believe they turned the heat off, hoping the body heat would be enough. It was not!
There was no signage to indicate where the confection, bar or ticket sales were. After standing in line to get a drink, you were told you had to go clear across to the other side of the tent to get a ticket first. There also was not a garbage can or recycling bin in sight.
Eventually someone slung garbage bags over the backs of the only two chairs that were available.
Thank God the Sheepdogs were awesome. We totally enjoyed them. We would definitely attend another Sheepdogs concert, but we can guarantee it will never be at another Rendezvous.
Shame on all of you who made that decision to leave dozens upon dozens of us left outside to freeze.
Audrey Bell
Marsh Lake