Kartel rehearsing daily as Freedom Street countdown underway’

Vybz Kartel is in deep, daily rehearsals for the Freedom Street Concert scheduled for New Year’s Eve at the National Stadium in Kingston. He is joined at rehearsals by his teams of dancers and guest stars, led by choreographer Rebel (a star of the PTR crew from the series Dancehall Life).

A press release stated that after 13 long years of not performing for his fans, Kartel “plans on delivering a show like no one has ever seen before”.

Produced by the Joe Bogdanovich-led Downsound Entertainment, the outfit is pulling out all the stops as it relates to the stage, sound and light. Reports are that staging will include a never-done-before gigantic theatre in the round with huge 360-degree sound, lights, video, and lasers on such a scale that it is requiring staging and crews to be flown in from London, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

“In addition to non-stop music from Kartel & Friends and choreographed dancing, the over-the-top production that includes a laser light show and a fantastic fireworks display wiil make it a night to remember! Celebrities and fans from around the world are flying in for this lavish event,” the release stated, while not revealing the names of any of the celebrities.

“We’re talking about a New Year’s Eve that will rewrite the rules, shake the ground, and echo through the ages! Freedom Street is more than a name; it’s a gathering, a movement, and a declaration that the ‘Worl’ Boss’ is returning to his throne,” Bogdanovich stated.

ALL-STAR LINE-UP

Vybz Kartel is bringing an army of international stars to support and perform with him on his return to the stage. He will be joined on stage by Spice, Popcaan, Skillibeng, Tommy Lee, Chronic Law, Shawn Storm, Lisa Hyper, Sheba, Gaza Indu, Likkle Addie and Likkle Vybz. The host of the December 31 event is MC Nuffy, who is known for his unmatched energy and quick wit.

The event is offering a limited number of special eight-person cycle track pods at a cost of US$12,500 each. These furnished ultra-VIP pods come with waiter and security and one of the best viewing spots in the house. The package is inclusive of substantial beverage and bottle service.

Ticket prices start at US$150 for bleachers; grandstand US$400; VIP north infield US$500; VIP south infield US$500; VVIP centrestage US$2,000.

Adidja Azim Palmer, better known as Vybz Kartel, is also referred to as ‘Worl’ Boss’ or ‘Teacha’. One of Jamaica’s most popular artistes, he has collaborated with performers such as Jay-Z, Eminem and Rihanna. His best-known hits include Clarks, Ramping Shop and Summer Time. His success led to him launching lines of shoes, alcohol and condoms.

The singer also became the first dancehall artiste to star in his own reality TV show, Teacha’s Pet.