Aspiring to VVIP status

THE EDITOR: Can someone please tell me what “VVIP” means? I mean, I know what the letters stand for but what does that acronym really mean? I recently heard an ad on the radio for the upcoming Lionel Richie concert which advertised three areas ie general admission, VIP and VVIP. Now let’s break that down, firstly there are general admission people who make up the majority, secondly there are the rest, the very important people who pay dearly for this title and who you want to be seen at your event and thirdly, to my astonishment, there is now a new group called “very, very important people” who may be those persons closest to God! Mind you, even with the introduction of this third level, the lowest rung still pays a premium price of $150 which leads me to wonder what the VIP and VVIP patrons are required to pay for their one-night acquired status.

Do you see my confusion, just when I thought I was at the highest level, there’s now another level for me to aspire to, VVIP! As a regular concert goer I have come to realise that the VIP moniker is just a “pips” as most times the VIP section often lacks the vibe and spirit of the concert, perhaps because of the supposedly high calibre of the aloof VIP audience. Also, because the VIP area is normally positioned near the stage (mainly at the sides), it is sometimes impossible to get a good view as music equipment and stage crew often block the performers. We talk incessantly of unity in this country and yet still the actions of promoters continue to be contradictory. Promoters seem intent on promulgating the propaganda that is the “VIP section”. Why do we always have to find ways to divide and segregate our people? 

Why is it that patrons cannot simply purchase a ticket and if they arrive early, they get the more desirable seats/positions and if they arrive late, well they get what they deserve for reaching late? Why is it that you have to rush to buy a ticket because the price will go up after the first week of going on sale? Is this to create hype? Why is it that the price increases even more when the event date is drawing near? Is this to create more hype or to generate higher profit? I admit that although I have many peeves regarding all kinds of promotions in general, in this country, I still find myself supporting some, because like many other Trinis, I am starved for good entertainment. Seeing Lionel Richie in Trinidad may be a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, so I will be there but, promoters, ease us up nah! Without us, you’re worth zero!

INDERA KHAN
Maraval