When to get to a stage

Reader question:

...I was wondering what time I should get to a stage to see a band at a relatively close distance

 The answer to your question is a big "it depends". Last year at the main stage I got right up to see the Beach Boys getting there about 20 min beforehand. I've also seen people getting in line for Phish at 11 am (for a 9 pm show). It depends entirely on how popular the act is. For the smaller stages I'd start working my way towards the front when the previous band is still playing, then hustle to the front when the place clears out.