New events give impetus to Dream Weekend

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The new events added to the recent Smirnoff Dream Weekend party series in Negril were welcomed by patrons, surpassing the expectations of many.

The Smirnoff Dream Live Concert at Cayenne Beach - which featured the likes of Beenie Man, Tommy Lee, I-Octane, Popcaan, and Aidonia -demonstrated that the party series was serious about making a strong impact on the summer entertainment market in Negril.

Beach Rave party was another addition that featured only house music that is famously used in European clubs. The motive was to see how well Jamaican selectors could play house.

The 3rd Dimension selectors showcased their versatility with early music selections that had the crowd dancing to their every beat. Hosted at the Boardwalk Village, this party was thoroughly enjoyed by patrons.

IGLOO WELL ATTENDED

The popular Heineken's Igloo was well attended, and the concept was a first for Dream Weekend, though Heineken had a mega-bar for persons who did not walk with an igloo. With DJ Absolute and DJ Ashue at the turntables, Igloo did not have a problem keeping the crowd entertained for the afternoon.

Dream Weekend went international with the Miami J'Ouvert party in Florida. While many had their doubts that the event - which was also staged during the same time as very popular ATI's Xtreme Wet N Wild - could sustain a crowd and vibe to keep patrons entertained, the event surpassed expectations and recorded more than 3,000 patrons on August 5.

The Miami J'Ouvert made its debut in Jamaica at Dream Weekend, and despite the heavy rains, it created the perfect atmosphere for persons to get wet, painted, and have fun at the all-inclusive event.