Joy of Jazz put on hold

T-Musicman says they recognise the need for health and safety precautions.

The Covid-19 pandemic has created an unprecedented situation which has affected most businesses, leaving the organisers of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival with no choice but to postpone the 23rd edition of the event.

The festival is normally held in

Johannesburg on the last week of September but this year’s event has been put on hold until further notice.

Festival organiser and T-Musicman chief executive Peter Tladi said: “T-Musicman recognises the necessity for health and safety precautions to be taken, the need for assessing the risks associated with exposure to Covid-19.”

He said they have consulted broadly to comprehend the challenges facing the country, and felt compelled to postpone the festival.

“Understandably, as a model corporate citizen for over two decades, we observe the obligations imposed on all of us that everyone should be concerned about the impact on lives of individuals, which could lead to unprecedented levels of casualties and loss of life, hence some proposals from certain quarters on virtual entertainment, somehow supported by live streaming.” He added the government has issued regulations that should be observed during the lockdown period.

Part of these regulations involve the banning of public gatherings, and the closure of all places or premises normally opened to the public where cultural events were hosted. He said the regulations on entertainment activities were straightforward at this stage concerning the gathering of people in public spaces, with clear guidelines outlined by the industry

Edited by

Thami Kwazi

010 492-5227

city@citizen.co.za

organisation, the Events Safety Council, that continues to negotiate with the relevant government departments.

He said the organisers will be considering some practical activities within the festival elements that made it possible to be staged in a virtual format, primarily considering that the event prided itself over the years of being anchored as a lifestyle festival, and not just a presentation of music performances.

“While we are all committed to the preservation of lives, we are also cognisant of the devastating effect this pandemic has on all of our livelihood,” he said.

Reminding concertgoers of the importance of staying safe, Tladi said: “Historical moments like these reminds all of us that we’re all connected symbiotically, and challenged to be resolute, patient, committed with an understanding that despite the many difficulties confronting us, let’s remain patriotic and united while remaining focused in fighting this pandemic.”

– Citizen reporter

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