I think so.

‘i think you’re muted’. ‘have you got your camera on’. ‘what’s the meeting id’?

this world of virtual events is hardly romantic. it certainly lacks ambience and that real connection. but for some things, it works incredibly well.

when paired with pre-recorded content, virtual events can be super successful for things like singing workshops, cookery workshops, and book clubs. doing these events virtually means that more people may be able to attend, and without the costs of transport. the pre-recorded element can also mean long-term income for creators.

while in lockdown, I’ve organised a virtual wine and cheese event with a local wine tasting specialist, i’ve hosted quiz nights, and parties too, as well as delivering all of my choir sessions, singing lessons, and performances online. it’s been a learning curve. they have been fun, and a much welcome distraction from the ongoing events, but out of all of them, the most successful element was the wine and cheese event.

The successful online events seem to have an element of education or skill learning; and I think these are here to stay.

for events where the main element is socialising, there is too much missing.

it’s nice to check in with people virtually, but it is definitely no replacement for physical human interaction. we are missing out on so much when we ‘meet up’ online. hopefully (soon) we can get back to doing all of the things we did before.. dinner, hugging, parties, festivals…

… but with so much more appreciation.

any questions, please get in touch rebeccajoannefrodsham@gmail.com