No Hamptons lala-vuka to cost local artists

Spira Tlhankane | Friday March 2, 2018 15:18

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Hamptons CEO Debbie Smith said that the Gaborone City Council (GCC) initial permit that allowed them to perform until 6am would have benefited more local artists who wanted to be part of the event.

“The current permit limits us to the current lineup of local artists we have,” she said.  She said efforts to resolve the issues have been futile so far, but they hadn’t given up yet.

“The council has told us that they no longer issue permits for big festivals but rather for partieas.  The arts and culture office said they have done their part,” she added.

She said they have since been given a verbal go-ahead by their stakeholders to continue with the logistics. Smith was also quick to highlight that they have engaged all the residents near Duma FM grounds, but unfortunately they can’t please everyone.

“Other promoters don’t engage the residents, but these are sensitive issues. One of the residents is sick, therefore we have proposed a plan to take him to Avani but it’s an ongoing discussion,” she said.

Smith said the event is estimated to cost around P4.5 million, but further promised that they will do an extended breakdown of the finances after the event.

 She also told the media that the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development sponsored them with the money that will be used to pay closing deposits for the performing artists.

“We have already paid Billy Ocean fully but Salif Keita and Amanda Black have been paid their deposits as per the contract,” she said.

Smith said SA Express, as one of the sponsors will transport Billy Ocean and other international artists from Johannesburg to Gaborone. Avani will provide catering services.  Smith said the oldest person to have bought a ticket is an 89-year-old.

“The intention is for the biggest artists to perform during the day to allow the mature crowd to enjoy themselves before they head home in the evening,” she said.