Fourth staging of Image music festival set for Portland
Event billed as harmonious addition to parish’s entertainment scene
WHILE PORTLAND has long been celebrated for its breathtaking natural wonders, the parish is quickly establishing itself as more than just an ecotourism haven. The fourth staging of the international music festival, Image, on March 31, is set to ignite the capital town, Port Antonio. The day-to-night music festival will feature a live performance by dancehall artiste Ishawna.
Businessman and event promoter Andre Lee-Chin says that “with the rich cultural tapestry, culinary delights, and a thriving landscape, Portland is poised to add flair to Jamaica being known as the hottest destination in the Caribbean. This event was conceived to improve the economic benefits of people relating to the entertainment field in Portland and spur others to host more large-scale events”.
Other events held i n the parish over the years are the Port Antonio Marlin Tournament, Portland Paradise Weekend, and Cinema Paradise – Portland Film Festival.
Portland’s accessibility has received a boost with the expansion of the Ian Fleming International Airport in St Mary. Opened in 2012 with the aim of attracting high-end tourism along the north coast, the airport is now set to welcome two weekly international non-stop flights by American Airlines, starting on February 24. This development positions Port Antonio, only an hour and 46 minutes drive from the Ian Fleming International Airport, as a convenient and alluring destination for international travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.
A release noted the endorsement of Member of Parliament for East Portland Ann-Marie Vaz, who welcomed the dispersal of significant events across the calendar year, instead of them being confined to the high tourist season or summer months.
This approach, she says, provides broader benefits for evolving local enterprises. This includes diverse accommodations such as boutique villas, mid-sized to large hotels, alongside indigenous culinary ventures, guided tours showcasing various attractions, transportation services, and beyond.
Colin Bell, deputy Opposition spokesperson on culture and creative industries, and caretaker for the Portland Eastern constituency and Fellowship Division, also noted in the release that,
ECONOMIC GROWTH
“As a festival promoter in Portland, I advocate for the infusion of cultural events that can make a substantial contribution to the economic growth of the parish. Festivals serve as a vibrant expression of local culture, augment the livelihoods of the people, and highlight the unique characteristics of the locations in which they are held. Supporting and allowing the festival ecosystem in Portland to flourish opens up numerous opportunities, and the ripple effects are far-reaching.”
Bell noted further that it is also important that consideration be given to intellectual property linkages associated with festivals and events that can provide sustainable economic opportunities. These include clothing designs, music, recipes, films, and content for various media.
“Additionally, ensuring that local MSMEs in the community be included in the economic opportunities is critical, to ensure that these events become catalysts for broader economic and creative development here in the parish,” he stated.
As the spotlight shifts to Portland, Image - The International Music Festival stands as a testament to the parish’s commitment to offering a holistic experience to its visitors with this day-to-night food-inclusive event. Beyond the lush landscapes and pristine beaches, Portland’s cultural renaissance and vibrant entertainment scene are ready to captivate audiences and make the parish a must-visit destination on social calendars worldwide. March 31, 2024, marks not only a date for a music festival, but a harmonious celebration of Portland’s ascent as a multifaceted gem in the Caribbean, the release outlined.