With a number of international and local reggae and hip-hop acts set to deliver stellar performances, it is anticipated that thousands of patrons are expected to assemble inside the National Stadium for the once-in-a-lifetime concert event. With this in mind, the organisers have ensured that all logistics with regards to security is in place with some 200 security officers, police and crowd-control personnel in place for the event.

According to Robert Chantrelle, event manager of the mega concert, the safety and security of the patrons is of utmost concern, and the organisers will be pulling out all the stops to ensure a peaceful and secure experience. "Safety is one of Guinness' major concerns, and that is one of the reasons we have put together, in conjunction with the police, one of the best security teams for the event."

security checkpoints

Chantrelle added that persons will not be allowed to enter the compound without a ticket and so security checkpoints will be set up at the main gate of the stadium as well as at the grandstand where patrons will enter the venue. "We don't want persons who don't have a ticket to be lurking around the compound, so if you don't have a ticket, you can't come inside the Independence Park facility.

Persons will be able to park inside the venue and they are also urged to park facing out to avoid congestion when leaving. Traffic flow will be handled by the police. As is the case with most entertainment events, there is a strict no-weapon policy and the organisers are urging patrons with firearms to leave them at the Stadium Police Station where they will be securely stored in locked bags and safes.

no seating

Patrons are also being urged to adhere to certain safety tips such as keeping their valuables, i.e. money and jewellery in their front pocket as well as to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. There will be no seating inside the grandstand of the stadium; however, patrons will have full access to the bleachers and the field to view the concert.

The National Stadium, which can hold approximately 36,000 persons, has been equipped with adequate bathroom and eating facilities as well as a medical station for any eventualities.

The organisers are keen on getting the show off and running on time to facilitate the Noise Abatement Act, and with that, the show is set to start promptly at 8 p.m. local time and end exactly at 2 a.m..

The National Stadium will play host to the Arthur Guinness Celebration with live appearances from hip-hop superstars Wyclef Jean and Busta Rhymes in addition to reggae stars Shaggy, Freddie McGregor and the Big Ship Family, Mavado, Wayne Wonder, Lady Saw, Beenie Man and Bounty Killer on Saturday, October 23.