Note: The AEP interviewed the coordinator a few days before APOGEE 2024 and the coordinator has since withdrawn the department from the fest over alleged disputes and mistreatment by the CoStAA.

With APOGEE around the corner, Aarchi Singh, coordinator of the Department of Live Events (DLE), took time out to talk to the APOGEE English Press (AEP) about the workings of her department in the upcoming fest.

Aarchi said that there are two events organised by them—‘Hip-hop Nite’ and ‘Bollywood Night’. ‘Hip-hop Nite’ comprises artists like Bharg, Raga, Fotty Seven, and Talwinder. The artists performing for ‘Bollywood Night’ includes Mohit Chauhan.

Aarchi went on to explain that the work for the fest is divided between the three major task divisions of the department—ticketing, which includes show signings and ticket collection during showtime, hospitality, which includes everything from travel needs to accommodations of the arriving artists, and production, which involves setting up South Park for the show. She mentioned that they will be collaborating with the Department of Controls to sort out production.

When asked about expected turnout, Aarchi said that this year, the event would be of a much larger scale, as there will be more popular artists and  the setup will be better due to an appreciable budget.

Talking about the process of artist selection, she said that many factors were taken into consideration, such as their budget, the popularity of the artist and the artist’s availability. The department had been conducting meetings as early as December regarding this, and a major difficulty which had come up was pricing.

Aarchi explained that many agencies quote different prices for artist engagement, and their quotes change with time. There have also been cases where more money has been demanded after the show, and the department has had no choice but to oblige. Nevertheless, Aarchi said that all such problems are circumstantial and in this edition of the fest, everything has gone smoothly up till now.   

After the artist is finalised, they focus on signings. These are conducted online, in person at local eateries on campus, and during student mess timings. Production is considered more of an on-fest task. A vendor is hired for the setup and is supervised by the department.

Talking about her experience as a coordinator, she explained that in the past, DLE had been infamous for a certain animosity with other student bodies over decisions regarding the fest. Moreover, its members were thought to be people who would think of DLE’s best interests first, but Aarchi stated that she has a motto—do what is best for the fest.  She helped foster the idea that all decisions made, even if at a personal loss to the department, shall be in the best interests of the fest.

On a final note, Aarchi said that all students should stay on campus during APOGEE and attend the live events. She promised that it will be an ‘amazing experience’.