Address lack of management at Rebel Salute

THE EDITOR, Madam:

As a reggae music lover and supporter, I was excited to attend the recently held Rebel Salute music festival and see some of my favourite artistes perform. There were good and quite enjoyable performances. However, there was too much unacceptable unprofessionalism – for example, two-hour start delay on the second night without an apology to the audience; many too-long, no-entertainment intervals; performers exceeding their time allotment and related poor or non-stage management, resulting in the understandable, abrupt, displeasing show termination by the police.

A number of these artistes perform on shows abroad, where they have to and do adhere to time stipulations. Why not in Jamaica? Are patrons here undeserving of better?

The festival’s theme was ‘Preservation of reggae’, but we must uphold standards to ensure that reggae not only survive, but thrive. I have much love and respect for Tony Rebel. He has a fantastic, durable music festival, concept and brand. He should do everything in his power to protect and advance them.

ANDREA BARNES

Gordon Town, St Andrew