Bogdanovich to Ghetto Splash’s rescue … again
Published:Wednesday | December 4, 2019 | 12:26 AMShereita Grizzle/Staff Reporter
Patrick Roberts, event organiser of the annual free concert Ghetto Splash, says that for the second year in a row, the show will go on without a title sponsor. In an interview with The Gleaner, Roberts said that with the festival set to celebrate its 30th anniversary at the December 17 staging, he is forever grateful to Downsound Records boss Joe Bogdanovich for coming on board as the show’s saving grace yet another year.
“We don’t have a title sponsor again this year, and right now, the only person we are really banking on is … Joe Bogdanovich. He came on board last year, and we appealed to him again this year, and he has indicated to us that he will be assisting,” Roberts said.
PRODUCTION COSTS
“The problem we face this year is the same as last, and that is sponsorship. Without his (Bogdanovich’s) help, I don’t think it would be possible to host Ghetto Splash this year. Any party promoter can tell you, this isn’t easy. It’s a free event, but there are a lot of additional costs associated with the event, especially on the production side of things, and so I have to say a big thank you to Downsound in helping us to underwrite some of the costs associated with keeping a show of this magnitude,” he continued.
With approximately two weeks to go before the show, Roberts told The Gleaner that he is still seeking additional sponsorship and would love if corporate Jamaica would support the event. He said that even if companies cannot dedicate huge amounts, small contributions will add up. He even welcomes individual sponsorship from persons who see the contributions the event has made over the years and want it to continue building its legacy.
Roberts happy for 30 years of free event
Despite trouble securing sponsorship for Ghetto Splash again this year, event organiser Patrick Roberts says he is happy the event gets to see its 30th anniversary.
“Thirty years ago when this show was conceptualised, we dreamt of it lasting this long and about it making immense contributions to Jamaican live entertainment, and we have done that. It’s a great milestone starting an event and watching it grow and evolve for 30 years,” he said, indicating that this year’s show will see some extra special performances.
Expecting great performances
“We’re looking to another great dose of performances from the artistes, including the likes of Popcaan, Capleton, Tarrus Riley, Dre Island, Bugle, and a whole host of others. The artistes are always so willing to give of themselves for this show, and this year is no different.
“We have been able to secure a line-up that will make the show great, and we’re still trying to make it even better by adding a pair of internationally acclaimed acts,” he continued. “I can’t say who those two artistes are yet, but I can say that if we are able to tie them down, Ghetto Splash’s 30th will be memorable.”
Ghetto Splash is set for December 17 at the Waterhouse Mini Stadium.