Party promoters are sweating following the first confirmed case of the coronavirus in Jamaica.
The announcement of the first case of the deadly coronavirus in Jamaica has sparked uncertainty for the entertainment industry. Promoters are now cautiously sweating as their scheduled events could be drastically affected.
Several high profiled events and concert series have already begun weighing their options as the threat of a pandemic looms.
Among the events that have expressed concern for its patrons are Jamaica carnival, BRT, Frenchmen, and numerous others.
On Wednesday Both BRT Weekend and Frenchmen announced that their events would be postponed. The news comes as no surprise as the government previously issued advisories about public gatherings.
Three of the main groups involved in the carnival have also released a joint statement. According to them, they are “committed to doing our part to minimize the spread of this virus”, but the party is still on.
On Tuesday Health Minister Christopher Tufton stated that discussions will have to be made regarding public gatherings. However, up to press time, no decision had been communicated publicly.
According to Lenworth ‘Squeeze’ Samuels, president of the Jamaica Association of Professional DJs, Promoters & Sound System Owners, hard decisions will have to be made.
“Hard decisions are going to have to be made about hosting events with large gatherings, in order to protect healthy space and safety for all. We understand the fallout in income, but safety and protection of lives come first.”
