In an innovative development, Dancehall Week, the latest addition to the upcoming Reggae Month calendar, has garnered official endorsements from reputable entities such as the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture Gender Entertainment and Sport, and the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC). This significant backing solidifies Dancehall Week’s status as a key event in Jamaica’s cultural landscape.
Launched with great fanfare in October 2023, the official Dancehall Street Parade is poised to make its debut during Reggae Month 2024, serving as the grand finale to the inaugural staging of Dancehall Week. Anticipation for this signature week-long celebration of dancehall culture is steadily mounting, promising to become a perennial highlight on the Reggae Month annual calendar.
The brainchild of the Dancehall Week 2024 Committee, comprised of influential industry figures, the Dancehall Street Parade aims to spotlight the genre in its birthplace, Jamaica. The week-long extravaganza, scheduled from February 13 to 19, 2024, will culminate in the official Dancehall Street Parade through the lively streets of Kingston on Sunday, February 18.
Roxelle’ Glammie’ McKenzie, the coordinator for Dancehall Week, expressed the sentiment shared by many: “It’s about time we paid homage to the home-grown genre that has made international impact, and we believe the world will take note of us here in Jamaica, recognizing and celebrating the songs, beats, dances, and the energy that is dancehall.”
The active participation of the dancehall community underscores unity among stakeholders, including dancers, promoters, artists, service providers, media, sponsors, and collaborative efforts with law enforcement and relevant agencies to ensure seamless execution of the series.
Dave Goldson, Executive Director for Dancehall Week, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support: “We are happy to see the media, artists, promoters, and other stakeholders showing their support for the initiative, and we look forward to continued support as we roll out our dancehall wear for the Street Parade and the week’s official event itinerary.”
Dancehall Week 2024 has recently unveiled the official female dancehall wear for the Dancehall Street Parade and invites enthusiasts to join the parade by registering online at the official website, dancehallweek.com.
