Sandcastle group makes strides

Negril has fast become Jamaica's party capital, and one of the organisations that have contributed to that reputation is Sandcastle, promoters of the increasingly popular Ka'ula Nights.

Last night, the four members of Sandcastle (Kishan Stanley, Robert Porter, Kirk Douglas and Claude D'Aguilar) presented the third edition of Ka'ula Night at the Seawind Resort, located in the heart of the seaside town.

The event is based on traditional festivities in the Hawaiian islands. It has grown so big that promoters have had to move it from the comparatively smaller Risky Business which accommodated 1,000 patrons.

Stanley estimates the Seawind can host as many as 2,500 fans for this year's show which was dubbed 'Bikini Night'.

According to Stanley, Ka'ula Night attracts a diverse audience.

"We go for the college crowd, that's our main demographic. But we get good feedback from older folks because they love the energy," Stanley explained.

The Sandcastle team stages almost all of their events in Negril which has become a hot spot for parties, especially as it approaches Jamaica's Independence celebrations in early August. The ATI and Dream weekends, which take place around that time, comprise numerous events, but Stanley says Ka'ula Night strives to be different.

"We're not just about a sound system and liquor, we try and have a theme for each event," he said. "Ka'ula Night is all about the ultimate party experience."

On party night, there were several incentives, including giveaways of coconut cups and grass skirts. Then there was the music which was provided by Coppershot Disco, DJ Rusty from Montego Bay, his counterpart DJ Nicco and homeboys DJ Gemini and Macky.

Ka'ula Night is one of three events promoted by Sandcastle. The others are Dirty Crush which takes place on May 22 and the New Year's Eve celebration, Ultra Violet.

All three are sponsored by Appleton.