Sumfest organisers to create entertainment for upcoming tourism summit
THE HONOURABLE Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism, has tasked Downsound Entertainment, organisers of Reggae Sumfest and led by Josef Bogdanovich, to craft an outstanding entertainment package for the upcoming tourism summit, staged by the United Nations’ World Tourism Organization, to be held in Jamaica this year. The summit will host 157 tourism ministers from across the globe, as well as multinational and multilateral organisations that provide funding for sustainable development.
Bartlett was speaking at the Montego Bay launch of Reggae Sumfest, held at Iberostar Rose Hall Beach on Thursday, May 18. He lauded the capacity and consistency of the exceptional Reggae Sumfest 25-year legacy and issued a challenge to the organisers.
“After Sumfest is over and you break records this year, you have to come back to me in November with a special global tribute as Jamaica hosts 157 ministers of tourism from across the world. A conference like the Western World has never seen, the first of its kind to be done by the United Nations’ World Tourism Organization. Joe and the team will give to the world a musical feast that they will never forget,” he charged.
Josef Bogdanovich thanked Bartlett for the vote of confidence and indicated that his team is heartened by the opportunity to showcase the best of Destination Jamaica to such a diverse gathering.
“The love for Destination Jamaica is the reason for my team’s passionate pursuits in entertainment and hospitality. It is an honour to be part of what will be a monumental opportunity for Jamaica, and we anticipate an excellent partnership with the Ministry of Tourism in bringing this dream to fruition,” said Bogdanovich.
Reggae Sumfest, staged in Montego Bay, begins on Sunday, July 16, with the Beach Party. The staple All-White Party at Pier One happens on Tuesday, July 18. Sumfest Blitz takes place on Wednesday, July 19, and the exciting Sumfest Heavyweight Clash will be held on Thursday, July 20, at Pier One. The festival climaxes at the historic Catherine Hall on Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22, with live music featuring Mavado, Tory Lanez, Queen Ifrica, Jah Cure, Sizzla, Christopher Martin, among others.