Baron added to Socadrome cast

The alternative Carnival Tuesday space - which began four years ago - will see David Rudder, Calypso Rose, MX Prime, Ravi B, Omardath Maharaj among others performing.

Socadrome marketing and communications director Danielle Jones-Hunte said that interest in the Socadrome has increased this year as measured by social media response. This is the first year the Socadrome will be free and will offer free doubles to its patrons from 9 am to 9.30 am. The Socadrome has been a joint venture between large Tribe, Bliss, Harts and YUMA.

She said offering it free this year was a step out of the box for its organisers. And its hope is opening the event free this year will result in a wider cross-section of people entering the Socadrome.

She added that the organisers also welcome others bands this year with last year’s big band winner Ronnie and Caro expressing an interest in crossing the Socadrome.

Jones-Hunte added that once the bands have contacted the organisers they will be allowed to cross the Socadrome.

Although the organisers had charged a minimal cost for the event, Hunte-Jones said it is free this year because there is a greater focus on culture which had always been. Bands crossing the Drome will be punctuated with performances by the scheduled performers. She added that the Socadrome’s intent was never to take over nor compete with the Savannah but rather to provide another space for those interested in viewing the mas.

“It will never be a Savannah nor an Ariapita Avenue,” she said.

“We are inviting families to pack a cooler and bring their children out from early to enjoy free doubles, Moko Jumbies, performances by traditional characters, an Extempo challenge featuring Lingo, Gypsy and Black Sage and much, much more,”a release on the space said.

“Seating at the venue is first come, first served and patrons are invited to come out early as free breakfast (doubles) will be served to those seated in the stands at 9am. The show starts at 9am with the headliner acts scheduled to perform before lunch along with at least three big bands crossing before 1 pm. Bouncy castles will be available for children from 9am. Refreshments will be on sale,” it added. She urged those interested in seeing performances by people like David Rudder to be there early. The Socadrome will be hosted by comedian Nikki Crosby.