The 20th edition of Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival has been cancelled, a casualty of the severe damage inflicted on the island during the passage of Hurricane Maria exactly one month ago.
Notice of this came from the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) in a press statement today. The DDA release stated:
“Following the passage of Hurricane Maria on September 18, 2017, Dominica suffered severe infrastructural damage, destruction of property including hotels and loss of life. The damage suffered by hoteliers and private home owners, coupled with access challenges has made it difficult to stage the World Creole Music Festival to the high standard that patrons have come to expect. Furthermore, given the present circumstances in Dominica, the national priority is to provide relief supplies and restore basic infrastructure and utilities.”
The three-night festival had been set to feature Machel Montano, Mavado, Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons and Sweet Mickey among others.
In a subsequent statement, the DDA outlined the process by which patrons can get their refunds.
Those with valid tickets and receipts from online ticket purchase should present them at the office of the Dominica Festivals Committee between October 23 – 31, 2017. Patrons must also present a valid ID.
Once the information is received and processed, refunds will be made during the week of November 6, 2017. The Dominica Festivals Committee is unable to facilitate refunds without proof of purchase of World Creole Music Festival tickets. Refund of tickets purchased online can also be facilitated through www.ticketpalcaribbean.com.
The Dominica Festivals Committee expressed its sympathy “with all Dominicans for the loss suffered during the passage of hurricane Maria” and stressed its committment to “rebuilding Dominica better as we continue on the road to recovery.” (PR)
