Streets Entertainment takes Disneyland to Jacob’s Ladder
IT STARTED out as an act of corporate responsibility by Ocho Rios-based promoters Streets Entertainment, but in the end has turned out to be the start of what is expected to be a long-lasting relationship with Jacob’s Ladder, a Mustard Seed Communities village in Haddon, St Ann, that caters to persons with disabilities.
For the past five years, Streets Entertainment has staged Disneyland at Turtle River Park in Ocho Rios and has consistently been an organisation that gives back to the community.
This year, the team decided to focus on Jacob’s Ladder.
It was the first time someone was taking a package that includes bounceabout, courtesy of Bounce Out Party Store, a team of jugglers, popcorn machine, cotton candy machine, sandwiches and lots of goodwill, to the facility.
Ayahna McKenzie, caregiver supervisor and assistant rehab coordinator for Care Plus Centre of Excellence, located on the compound, was happy for the few hours of excitement.
“It’s a delight to have them here, as you can see the residents are enjoying themselves, that’s what they like,” McKenzie told The Gleaner.
“It’s not every day they are engaged with this, so far they’re enjoying themselves; and I hope others can know about Jacob’s Ladder and come in and do the same as well.”
However, for Streets Entertainment boss, Kirkland Kelly, the experience turned out to be more than he expected and drove him to make a real commitment.
“We know that everyone would love to be a part of Disneyland, so those who couldn’t make it, we took the initiative to take Disneyland to them. But coming here now, it’s a different experience. They’re going to end up being family,” Kelly stated.
“I feel good to be here and ... . ah one ah mi best Sunday this, from mi deh pon the land,” he admitted. “We a go see what we can do to be part of the family. We a look for a charity long time, this can be one of our thing.”
McKenzie was happy for the commitment.
“We are happy to have you here today with us and hope, as you said, this is one of your charities. I hope you continue to support us the best way you can. For those who couldn’t come to Disneyland, you’ve brought Disneyland to them, and I know they really appreciate the Sunday afternoon. Thanks again to you and your team.”
McKenzie, in the meantime, has informed that the facility would welcome gifts of clothing, food items, pampers and personalised items for the residents. Currently, there are 100 residents at Jacob’s Ladder, aged 21 and over.
Meanwhile, Curtis Williams of Streets Entertainment said the 2018 staging of Disneyland on December 26 drew one of the largest audiences seen at the show.
“It was awesome, it was one of the best turnout ever,” Williams said.
The day served up a cluster of entertainment including merry-goround, bounceabout, eliminator, skyscraper, mechanical bull, train, among others, along with a variety of performers, capped by a special guest performance by Laa Lee Ranks.