‘We are on the right track, it’s all systems go,’ says Elmore
This year the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival moves into its 14th staging earning a reputation as one of the leading celebrations of music in this hemisphere. For 2010, the festival also moves into a new venue, at picturesque Greenfield (Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium).
According to Walter Elmore of Turnkey Productions, producers of the event, music lovers are in for a wonderful treat and plans are fully underway for another successful production.
“We are well advanced in our construction of the venue, artiste flights and accommodation have been confirmed and we have begun receiving equipment that is needed to produce a successful show,” said Elmore.
“We are right on track, it’s all systems go,” he added.
Elmore recognises that patrons are unfamiliar with the new venue but wished to allay fears saying that this year will be just as good if not better than years gone by.
“We have an amazing line-up, we are paying strict attention to detail at the venue. We will be using the centre field so we are basically going to recreate the original jazz venue and more on the field. That’s over 30,000 square feet of intimate surroundings. Through comments and suggestions from our patrons, we are making sure we step up to the plate and create an extraordinary event,” Elmore admitted.
patron consideration
Elmore pointed out that consideration for the patrons was a factor in the decision to change the venue. With the ongoing construction of the convention centre across from Rose Hall, patrons would likely be inconvenienced by the waiting periods for shuttle service.
He gave his assurance that there would be no traffic or parking problems.
The new four-lane highway should alleviate all traffic issues. The new location is right off this highway so there will be no headaches. The venue already has ample parking facilities on the stadium grounds and the adjoining lot will also be utilised, “Elmore stated.
“We have gained the assistance of the police, who have helped us to formulate a comprehensive traffic plan to avoid all of the traffic problems,” he added.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Olivia Grange, said that she is thrilled that the stadium is being used in this way.
“The facilities are well kept. The field is the perfect location for the festival,” the Minister commented.
The existing infrastructure and facilities at the venue which includes turnstiles, bathrooms, electricity and dressing rooms would save some 30 per cent of the usual costs, Elmore advised.
“We will be able to complete this venue in less time than previous years because of these added benefits,” he said.
“The food court will boast 18 different stands and the prices will be reasonable. As always security will be top notch” he noted.
With regards to skyboxes, he noted that all skyboxes would be located on the field in the VIP area. There will be about 20 air-conditioned skyboxes available in the grandstand with balcony seating.
In terms of production, Elmore said that there would be a completely new look for the stage with a brand new LED system as the backdrop.
“The stage will be the usual size 60×40 and the small stage will be erected in the food court area as usual. We always go first world when it comes to technology. In addition to the LED system, we will be using the high end Meyer Milo line array to ensure that the sound and lighting are of the highest quality. As usual patrons can expect nothing short of the best in terms of the production of this event,” he ended.
The festival begins on Sunday January 24 and runs through to Saturday January 30. It will feature some of the greatest stars including Gladys Knight, Jon Secada, Babyface, Joss Stone, The Queen Project, Billy Ocean, Maxi Priest, Marion Hall, Robin Banks and Hall & Oates. The event is world renowned for its impeccable line-up, first class production and incomparable organisation.
http://www.jamaica-star.com/thestar/20100121/ent/ent8.html
