Denyque performs on stage during a LIME Skool Aid back-to-school treat at Jam World, Portmore, St Catherine last Saturday. Thousands of children, parents and patrons flocked the venue. - Anthony Minott

Saturday's LIME Skool Aid, the pre school-reopening fair by the telecommunications company, shifted from fun and gifts for the children into the raw energy of dancehall in the later hours.

At one point, there was literally a bang - or, rather, a series of them - at Jam World, Portmore, St Catherine, as an extensive fireworks show created temporary, localised, very colourful showers of sparks. But it was the bang of dancehall, the artistes performing to tracks, which was most consistent - although, of course, some performers were more 'banging' than others.

With Pretty Boy Floyd and Badda Bling from Flava Unit sound system hosting, then Nuffy taking over, the ladies were among those who hit the right note with the large audience. Etana opened with Free and the audience duly filled in for Alborosie on Blessing. When Nuffy said "if she bad, say LIME!" the company's name was thundered loud and clear.

Teflon came between Etana and Ce'Cile. Where Etana was roots, Ce'Cile was in dancehall mode, a young female dancer in tow for Ce'Cile's dismissive 'woot woot' at her ex-boyfriend.

Ishawna got the ladies to be 'legendary' in voice and Wayne Marshall was a welcome surprise and the women rejoiced in Good Ol' Wife.

KipRich's witty lyrics went over especially well with the audience and he expressed his respect for Vybz Kartel after doing Talk. "It a get near dat time, December time, my head get hot. But a back to school time, so me a keep it pon a level," KipRich said.

However, as he left the stage, KipRich said, "December 26. Boxing Day, Sen' dem Laing."

KipRich was the evening's final performer and, in the earlier going, Apache Chief and Sarge simulated a Beenie Man/Bounty Killer clash, ending with a reference to the infamous hammer. Prodigal questioned "everybody head cya jus' hot so", Ataru and Zamunda also performing.