I always saw the LUG as both a collective and individual showcase. As proven in multiple cases, it can be. So, yes, we might be able to do it.
However, the scale and refinement of builds we see will likely take years to accomplish, even IF we decide on a unifying theme that is somehow both universal and captivating enough to draw a good chunk of the LUG into serious investment of time, money and coordination. So, no, we might NOT be able to do it.
There are pros and cons to a goal of this necessary size and investment.
Then I thought, “Wait a minute. Is it really about what WE can build? Or can it be more about what CAN be built, by experienced builders and by new or reborn LEGO fans?”
Perhaps allowing ourselves to be more varied in what we present might make our displays more approachable, relatable and accessible.
Finally, why follow other LUGs’ patterns when we can instead make the LUG experience, both inward and outward, as unique as we are?
None of these are my hard and fast opinions, but all these perspectives are worth considering.