I guess we all have our own experiences of Lakeside! I sure do. It is what it is.
And it is where Bruce likes to holds the event, his event, to do with as he pleases. He puts on who he wants and he invites the guests he wants. Then he throws it open to us, effectively saying "this is the show I'm offering, these are the tables you can sit at and this is the ticket price."
That seems fair to me. It's my choice whether to go or not.
I am delighted to see people I know and admire being asked to perform - of all age groups (!) - and I hope it is a great day out for all who decide to go along. It sure should be!
Cheers - Iain