Record attendance at first CARIFESTA superconcert

The Guyana National Stadium at Providence was filled to capacity for the first time since its construction last year for Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2007, when three of the region’s most popular artistes, along with a number of local stars took the stage on Saturday evening for the first Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA) superconcert.

The concert, sponsored by Banks DIH, one of Guyana’s largest beverage producers, featured several regional artistes such as the phenomenal Trade Winds; Rupee and Biggie Irie, both from Barbados, and Mr Vegas from Jamaica, while local performers included First Born, Anaconda, the indigenous Calibro band and the impressive X Factor dancers.

The concert was free of charge, although tickets were needed for admittance, and the several thousands gathered were treated to an evening of Caribbean music and dance for approximately eight hours.

Although CARIFESTA X was expected to outshine the CWC as the biggest event in Guyana, the turnout for the concert surpassed all expectations, as the stadium’s field was packed with people who wished to get near the stage and experience a good view of the performers. Those who were unable to fit on the field were comfortably accommodated in the stands nearby and viewed the proceedings on two large screens.

The appreciative audience sang and waved Guyana’s flag, particularly to songs by the Trade Winds, Rupee, First Born and Biggie Irie.

Various artistes from the Caribbean and other countries are expected to perform at a few more super concerts planned for the same venue, while other CARIFESTA activities will continue throughout the country until August 31.

(Caribbean Net News)