Despite tough economic conditions and a pullback on sponsorship support dollars, the third annual Wadadli Music Festival is scheduled to be staged on Saturday, April 25, 3:00 p.m., at the St. Paul’s Rectory Grounds, in Falmouth, Antigua. This free musical event will feature renowned Reggae singer, Glen Washington, as well as a host of international performers and some of Antigua’s young and up-coming stars as well as a Fashion Show, Kid rides and face painting, food vendors, arts and crafts booths.
The promoters, Fullwerks Productions, have stated that they are dedicated to developing The Wadadli Music Festival into a major event in Antigua, and are therefore making major sacrifices during these lean economic times toward that goal. Although faced with many challenges, they have given assurances that the quality of the festival will not suffer and the public can expect a first-rate event with excellent entertainment, surpassing the standard set by last year’s near flawless production.
Back for his second Wadadli Music Festival appearance is Glen Washington, who made quite an impression last year and is expected to shine again as he performs his many hits. Antigua’s Reggae Ambassador, Causion, is eager to perform his musical stuff at his annual homecoming, and will definitely impress the ladies with his usual high-energy performance. Jamaican actor/comedian Chris “Johnny” Daley will make his first Antigua appearance, and is expected to bring lots of humor to the stage. Vocalist and Guitarist extraordinaire Junior Jazz, now performing with Inner Circle band, and Simone G are also scheduled to make impressive showings.
The Wadadli Music Festival has set itself apart by featuring an array of Antigua’s outstanding performers as well as giving newcomers a break. This year is no exception, as the festival will feature local acts such as Just Six, Jelani, Tobaco Band, Wardadli Souljahs, Full Steam, Vision 2000, Sanctuary, Venom, Leslie Nanton and Future to name a few.
“We take pride in knowing that the Wadadli Music Festival is able to feature such a wide variety of the island’s talent, in such a major setting, while featuring top international acts,” stated Colin “Causion” Bailey, president and CEO of Fullwerks Production. “As a performing artist myself, I know what it means to get a break and have the opportunity to perform on such a grand scale, and so we are committed to giving Antigua’s young talent some exposure.”
Although the event is free, patrons are asked to bring cans of non-perishable food items, which will be collected and donated to several local charities. Last year, over four thousand patrons filled five barrels with their donation, which was distributed to the Amazing Grace Foundation. This year they are hoping to collect much more from patrons, as a much bigger crowd is anticipated to attend the festival.
The Wadadli Music Festival is proudly supported by American Airlines, ABI Insurance Company, RGS Limited, Bailey’s Supermarket, LMR Signs, Biggs Car Rental, Catamaran Hotel, LISS, Harney Motors, Kennedy’s Club Limited, VP Records, Red Hot Radio, Vibz FM, K45, Cooyah Fashions, The Edge, Riddims Marketing, Willy D, ABS Television & ABS Radio.