There is now an uproar across Trinidad and Tobago as event promoters, including artists who are determined to keep the spirit of Carnival and Soca music alive, are announcing events in so-called “safe zones” for vaccinated patrons, all over the place.
Starting February 22, Sound Forge which stands at Lot 6, Christopher Samuel Drive, Mucurapo, will be hosting something called, “Protecting the Culture”. It’s a bold statement being made by the team as they prepare to host seven shows over a seven-day period.
“We know this isn’t an ideal situation, but we felt like we’ve been missing so much over the last couple of years that not only us, but the world has had to adjust to our ‘new normal,'” said Sound Forge’s Communications. Consultant, Leisel Douglas. She explained that the team saw a unique opportunity to use Sound Forge to ‘Protect the Culture’ and its magic during this time. It is the most viable option against losing the essence of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and not preserving it for generations to come.
In partnership with various actors, Sound Forge has created an impressive calendar featuring the many facets of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. Douglas said the experience will feature traditional carnival characters, soca artists, calypsonians and a Carnival Village. Performances begin on February 22 with Freetown Collective and run throughout Carnival week culminating in David Rudder’s High Mass on Carnival Monday, February 28. Sound Forge will partner with the Port-of-Spain City Corporation for a pan and calypso fusion created for Carnival on Friday, February 25. Also headline shows are Preedy and 3 Channel with the A-Team Band commanding Saturday’s offering.
“The site is a verified safe area and preparatory work is ongoing to facilitate events,” Douglas explained. “We did Kes last year, so a lot of what we need is already in place. The sites will be socially distanced, hygiene stations available throughout the site, proof of vaccination for entry is a must, and we intend to go below even what is considered a safe capacity for the site,” she said.
Tickets to enter the show both physically and virtually went on sale on Monday, February 7. Tickets for physical access are only available at the box office located at the venue. For additional details, follow @sound.forge on Instagram.
