You are right. I’s been very quiet around here recently. It’s a good idea to have some fun and discuss where Libera might or might not be touring in 2018.
To be honest, I’m not a big fan of speculations, which are not supported by any knowledge. On the other hand I was wondering how the Libera staff choose the tour destinations. I was thinking a bit about it and my analytical mind identified several key factors, which are certainly taken into consideration in that process. I can’t say what is the importance of each of them, so please be aware, that the order in which they are listed doesn’t mean the importance.
The factors in my opinion are:
- Attractiveness for the boys,
- Effort needed to organize the tour.
Even though it’s difficult to say, how important each of the factors is, there are certainly at least two boundary conditions, which mustn’t be exceeded:
- Safety – no tour is organized to any place which could pose a risk of danger to Libera; also an already planned tour can be canceled, if such a risk arises – example: cancellation of the 2015 Korea tour because of the MERS-Virus
- Money – in long term the profit and expenses balance must be positive or neutral for any organization. This is the condition for the organization to survive. Tours are costly and bills have to be paid, so in any case a calculation is needed if a tour can be afforded or not.
Now, few words to each of the factors.
Safety – no discussion here; the destination must be safe.
Money – it will certainly be highly appreciated if a tour brings revenue which covers or exceeds the tour costs .
Attractiveness for the boys – as we know, the boys are in focus of Libera and this is how it should be. For sure long travels to exotic countries are more attractive to the boys than visiting the neighborhood in the UK or Europe. (Imagine a choir rehearsal and RP asking: "So guys, where do we want to go for a tour next summer: to California or to Holland/Germany/Poland/Hungary....". What will be the answer? What do you think? )
Prestige – taking part in important events and/or being noticed by large audiences is essential for marketing purposes. I think, the prestige of taking part in the World Youth Days in Krakow in 2016 was the deciding factor, which made that tour happen.
Effort needed to organize the tour – there are always so many things around a tour which care must be taken for: advertising, venue hire, accommodation, meals, transportation, outings, other activities. It’s a huge amount of work which must be done. Having someone locally to organize all the things is probably essential for a successful tour.
So, what are the chances for Libera tour here or there in 2018? We can try to estimate each aspect and compare possible destinations.
I’m sorry, if you got bored reading my post. My academic background came to the fore and made me prepare this kind of... hmmmm, lecture?