16 Jan 2018

Jazz lovers are set to be treated to the crème de la crème of jazz music at the 5^th annual Hamptons Jazz festival to be held at Duma Grounds in March 24. 

Speaking in an interview, organiser, Debbie Smith said people should note that they took a break in hosting the event last year due to the fact that they had hosted the show twice in 2016.

She said they needed more time to put things together and bring show stoppers to this year’s show. 

“People should know that we are only three-years-old and it is very hard to host such a big event while struggling to secure sponsors. 

We initially thought of hosting it beginning of October or last weekend of September last year and unfortunately one of the main acts that we earmarked could not make it for those dates and their fees were also a bit steep. 

For example, one quoted US$60 000, (about P600 000,” she said.

This year’s line up is made up of UK’s Billy Ocean, Mali’s Salif Keita and South Africa’s Amanda Black and Zahara.

Other artists that are billed to appear are Lesotho’s Bhudazza and South Africa’s siblings, Nathi and Amanda Makanyi.

Botswana is set to be represented by jazz maestros’ in Socca Moruakgomo, Nnunu Ramogotsi, Thabang Gaorogwe, Shanti Lo, Thato Jessica, Ndingo Johwa and A.T.I. 

“We have also decided to have an all local MC line up with the ever so suave, Resego Motlhokathari, the bubbly Zenzele Hirschfeld and the witty Losika Seboni,” she said.

Debbie further said as Hamptons Jazz Festival, they had always wanted to cater for the older and mature generation adding that it does not mean those who do not fall within that target audience cannot attend the show.

“Music unites people and if there are youngsters who enjoy Billy Ocean’s music, why not have them also in attendance and just have a good time with everyone. 

That is also why we chose the MCs because they appeal and transcend both target audiences,” she said. 

On tickets and specials for the show, Debbie said currently there was a couple’s ticket promotion at P899 and two free t-shirts.“This special is valid until end of February. 

Normal tickets are sold at P599 with no merchandise and those that want a VIP experience will have to part with P3 500. 

The VIP experience includes welcome beverages, food by Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino chefs, drinks vouchers, chocolate fountain, Hamptons t-shirt or fedora hat, Hamptons goody back, Moet glass and the opportunity to meet & greet celebrity artistes,” she said.

Also, she noted that early bird tickets that went for P399 had been sold out. Tickets are available at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, Liquoramas’ country wide, Engen shops and online at www.webtickets.co.bw.ENDS