[Callers] Festival Applications

I realized last night that I had let the deadlines pass for the performer applications for Down East and NEFFA this year. I also realized that part of the reason that I let them pass was because I wasn't sure what was expected on the forms. Here are the questions I should have asked weeks ago: Generally the festivals provide 1 hour slots. Do you put a theme with a short description onto the application, or can you just request a slot and figure out the theme later? How much do callers try and do something totally original or do they pick a theme that hasn't been done in a while? Do you work out something with a band before, or does the festival scheduler pair you up? I would enjoy hearing how some of the callers with festival experience approach the application process. Thanks! Chris