Budget cuts were inevitable this year -- we've seen it before -- but remember this event made its bones with houses done on shoestring budgets we old-timers still won't shut up about two decades later. Sometimes a lower budget can force creativity. Also, especially re: Demon Queens, it wouldn't be the first time masks/sets weren't ready opening weekend.
I hate judging the event before it's had a week or two to cook. Too many TMs/guests are simply hyped to be "FIRST!", while the actors haven't had time to learn their space and what works there. Opening weekend is about enjoying the vibes and what is basically Orlando's night before Thanksgiving, when we finally catch up and have a drink with friends we haven't seen all year