Thousands attend for music and fun in the sun for 1st annual Fort Lauderdale Haitian Compas Festival Lauderhill, FL–May 17–Al Haitian Compas Festival Fort Lauderdale shocked many as they actually pulled in a good several thousand people into the Central Broward Regional Park in Fort Lauderdale. Despite all of the drama and controversy surrounding the event, this year’s 1st edition proved impervious to the negativity as thousands came out to support the movement. While final reports from sources estimated ~5,000 people at the park, the festival organizers state otherwise.
“We made it. We had over 10,000 people at the park,” stated media coordinator and festival partner Stanley Fabre. “Lots of people came with their children and enjoyed the different line-up. Thanks to Al Baguidy and Riz Tchako, the major sponsors for the festival, we were able to pull it off. Native dancers, marching band, and very different line-up than always. We are already starting to plan next year’s addition which will have twice the amount of people guaranteed.”
The choice of venue was perfect. If one did not have a vehicle, there were four bus lines to choose from–18, 36, 40, and 81. If you chose to drive, then there was a parking lot within the vicinity that was FREE. Security was tight as they not only searched the people but the vehicles as well. There were lots of activities for the patrons to choose from besides the entertainment provided by the performing act e.g. waterpark, soccerfield, tennis, etc. Seats for people to sit down if they chose to and picnic area for families to enjoy the sun and eat. Surprisingly, the price remained a reasonable $20 for the whole night.
Behind the sound system, which was reportedly crystal clear throughout the night, there was the media setup. Press room, Wi-Fi, power outlets and all that the media can ask for. This made things very easy and convenient for those who came to provide coverage.
It appeared that all of the bands advertised did in fact show up. Aside from the bands who publicly stated that they would not be there i.e. Barikad Crew & Zenglen, the major and upcoming acts were present including the surprise guest AMI artist/rapper and Broward county native, Ace Hood. Unfortunately, not all that glitters is gold.
Due to poor stage management, many of the advertised bands did not get to perform. While acts like Biznis, X-Tassy, Magnum Band, Tropicana, Phantoms, Sweet Micky, Misty Jean and Josminah blessed the stage (be it a full set or 5 minutes), Hangout, Bel Jazz, Tabou Combo, and others lost the opportunity since the time ran out. This was quite odd as it was reported to me that the festival did in fact start on time. The park shut off the sound and turned on the lights at 11:00 PM to signal to all that it was time to go home. Regarding this matter, Stanley explains. “This was our first year and not everything went perfectly. It was a learning experience and we learned a lot. We learned more about production and marketting. All we can do is take notes and make some changes to see how we can make it even better next year.”
As we wait for next year, we can draw the conclusion that this festival has promise. It has potential. The fact that thousands came out to support despite all of the handicaps they had only proves that there are those who want the change. It was a shock to me and an eyeopener for many. My suggestions to the crew are less bands, cooler heads, and stronger marketing. Put all of this together with better motives, organization, and preparation, Florida may very well be the home of 2 of the biggest Haitian festivals which happen to take place on the same day.
