22 Mar 2018

Jazz lovers are set to be treated to the crème de la crème of jazz music at the fifth annual Hamptons Jazz festival scheduled for tomorrow at Duma grounds with some of the world’s most renowned artistes.

Speaking in an interview, organiser of the event, Debbie Smith said it was all systems go as every detail regarding the show had been sorted out.

With a line up boasting and headlined by UK’s Billy Ocean, Mali’s Salif Keita and South Africa’s Amanda Black and Zahara; the line-up is a mixture of top international acts. 

Other artistes that have been billed to appear are Lesotho’s Bhudazza, as well as South African brother and sister duo Nathi and Amanda Makanyi. 

On the local front 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 not meaning that those that did not fall within that target audience could not 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 have chosen the MCs appeal and transcend both target audiences,” she said. Speaking on tickets and specials for the show, Debbie said there was a couples’ ticket promotion, which retails for P899, admitting two people, who also get two free t-shirts.

“This special was valid until end of February. Normal tickets are P599 with no merchandise and those that want a VIP experience will 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 bag, Moet glass and the opportunity to meet & greet celebrity artistes,” she said. 

She also noted that early bird tickets that went for P399 have been sold out. 

Debbie also indicated that cooler boxes that with drinks inside would be charged P50.

“Those that come with empty cooler boxes will not be charged for such containers,” she concluded.

Tickets are available at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, Liquoramas countrywide, Engen shops and online at www.webtickets.co.bw.

People can follow updates about the festival on Facebook (Hamptons Jazz Festival Gaborone), Twitter (@hamptonsjazz05), Instagram (@hamptonsjazzfestgaborone) and Hamptons hotline +267 73612961. BOPA