Dear Pan Lovers,
As you are aware, this Sunday's National Panorama
semi-final for all three categories of conventional
orchestras will be conducted in an environment
somewhat different to the traditional configuration
and, consequently, will present some challenges to
both the administration and our audience.
The event, which begins at 9 am at the Queen's Park
Savannah in Port-of-Spain will, for the first time
since inception in 1963, take place at a venue
different from the traditional setting.
Adapting to the new venue itself has presented a
raft of difficulties and we have applied the finest
available minds to pre-empting problems but, as with
any new experience, there may well be a few
situations we could not predict; even after
meticulously analyzing possibilities from every
angle.
The only constant is the fine music we confidently
expect from the 45 orchestras that will perform
tomorrow. Just about everything else is novel and
therefore the likelihood of situations that could
not be anticipated is consequently greater.
For openers, we expect there will have to be some
level of integration of the various groupings and
interests that historically comprised the Panorama
audience at the Savannah Party. With significantly
reduced covered accommodation, seating options
normally exercised by patrons will, no doubt, be
appropriately varied to suit the new circumstances.
Given this situation, we cannot facilitate rhythm
sections in the covered area, nor can we allow
oversized coolers and other paraphernalia, for we
have primarily dedicated the entire space to
seating, and must also observe protocol regarding
accommodation arrangements for guests of The State,
our organization and persons of similar ilk along
with paying patrons; as always was the case with the
Grand Stand.
The northern greens is proposed as the area for
hosting the traditional "North Stand" groups, posses
and fun-sections, offering an open-air facility and
consequent freedom of movement within that expansive
space. Along its northern perimeter we have
positioned a cluster of tents for those who require
shielding from the sun.
As you know, these adjustments are temporary and
will be with us for a mere two Carnival seasons, one
of which is already underway. Soon enough, the old
accommodation will be replaced by an ultra-modern
facility; relieving us all of whatever slight
inconveniences the present conditions may impose.
We feel assured, however, that our regular patrons
will understand the need for some degree of
adjustment, in order to make way for the greater
good in the long-term.
We are equally confident you will co-operate with us
in the management of this transitory environment
which, let me hasten to add, comes at no sacrifice
of the quality or quantity of spectacular pan
performances to which we have become accustomed.
Sincerely,
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