Case Studies


client: Bonnaroo Music Festival

Crisis Communications Plan Calming the Public

capabilities/industry:   Crisis Communications & Issues Management |  Media Relations |  Meetings & Special Events |  Sports & Entertainment



Bonnaroo is a multi-day music festival held annually in Manchester, Tennessee. In its third year, organizers recognized they were unprepared to handle the news media in the event of a crisis and approached DVL and partner agency Kaleidoscope Media about providing crisis support. 

DVL conducted media training for designated spokespeople and produced a crisis communications plan. At the event, DVL and Kaleidoscope provided on-site support, establishing relationships with reporters and escorting news crews.
 
Unfortunately, in the first year of DVL’s involvement, there were two deaths. During the following three years, there have been additional fatalities. Therefore, DVL transitioned from general media support to crisis support, helping Bonnaroo organizers prepare statements and becoming a liaison with local authorities, as well as scheduling and conducting interviews. DVL remains on site, providing constant and intensive support and reviewing procedures for future concerts.

results: The client is well-prepared to communicate with the media and coverage of the incidents is fair and accurate. As a result, the community continues to support the event.