The largest and most recognized musical, cultural and historical showpiece on Saint Lucia—the rebranded Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival—is again set to provide employment opportunities for thousands on the island.
Notwithstanding the scores of local artists and artisans that will grace jazz performance venues across the country over the 11 days of the Festival, thousands of other Saint Lucians will derive economic activity through the provision of vital festival ancillary services.
Already dozens of individuals, as well as privately owned small, medium and large sized enterprises have responded to requests for proposals to provide technical and logistical support towards staging the iconic festival.
Keenly sought after service providers range from sound and light engineering, stage decor, coordination and management, photography, videography and emceeing services, graphic designs and media relations support, transportation and catering, security services and cleaning to name a few.
“The annual outsourcing of these services spurs direct economic activity amounting to millions of dollars and provides vital employment opportunities for thousands of Saint Lucians,” said director of tourism Louis Lewis.
The participation of local services providers, estimated at 40 percent percent of the overall Jazz & Arts budget, “also allows for capacity building through the development of a cadre of highly skilled and competent individuals, who over the two decade history of the festival, have honed their respective talents and skills,” noted Lewis.
Now into its 24th year, the 2015 edition of the Jazz & Arts Festival runs from April 30 to May 10 and features a stellar line-up of performers who blend island culture, famed musical talent and diverse musical genres.
Source: Caribbean News Now
