Big acts for Reggae

Article by Carol Martindale

More than 70 acts are on the cards for the newest event on the Digicel Barbados Reggae Festival roster.
Speaking at a Press launch for the eight edition of the festival at the Mount Gay Visitors Centre on Wednesday night, director of FAS Entertainment Al Gilkes said Bajan Reggae Night on April 28 at the 3Ws Theatre at Kensington Oval would feature the largest collection of Bajan talent on any show here.
And in keeping with the cricketing tradition at The Oval, Gilkes announced that former West Indies player Sulieman Benn will be giving his maiden performance as a reggae star.
The festival kicks off on April 22 with the Reggae Beach Party at Brandons beach featuring Popcaan, Mr Vegas, Baby Cham and a line-up of local acts which include Crimeson, Mr Levi and Fantom Dundeal.
Vintage Reggae Night, which continues to grow in popularity, follows on April 27. It features two of the legends in local entertainment in the form of Mike Grovesnor and Queen of Song Wendy Alleyne. They will share the stage with Freddie McGregor, Glen Washington, Admiral Tibet, Ernie Smith, Super Rueben and others.
The popular picnic affair Reggae on the Hill winds up this year’s festival on April 29. On stage will be Jah Cure, Third World, Capleton, Chris Martin, Konshens, Tanya Stephens, Everton Blender and a local cast featuring Buggy Nakhente, Simon Pipe, LRG, Daniel and others.
Gilkes noted that the Digicel Reggae Festival has become more than just a Barbadian festival, but had moved to the international stage. (YB)
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