Recently Insider has been attending the Fete de Citron in Menton and the Nice Carneval both at the Cote D´Azur as well as various Carnival processions in Switzerland amongst them the famous Basler Morgenstreich.. There were coulourful bands, amazing artists, beautifully designed floats, masses of confetti and thousands of spectators. So why then is Carnival dead? The answer is very simple and has nothing to do with cultural sensitivities, religious connotations or concerns about safety in a world where too many joyfoul celebrations are cruelly cut short by attacks. Festivals and events like these live from the interaction between the spectator and the performer - the clapping and cheering, the back and forth of confetti throwing, the looks of wonder and excitement at the colours and sounds and the creativity of the display. There has to be eye contact, smiling and jocular exchanges to show the crowds appreciation. Instead there is this....
Th small device which has stolen peoples´ time and taken over their lives. The mobile phone.It stands between the spectator and the performer like a very visible barrier. People don`t worry any more of being covered in foam or confetti but that they don´t get a clear shot of proceedings to show the folks back home. The aim is not to be enveloped in the experience, to feel a sense of magic and wonder but to arouse FOMO in those who weren´t in attendance. This small device acts as a barrier blocking any interaction between those in attendance. Carnival used to be an opportunity for strangers dancing in the streets, clapping, cheering and partying together. Now it´s a silent affair almost as solemn as a funeral procession.
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