‘Georgetown International Village’ opens
Guyana Chronicle
March 30, 2007
THE much touted ‘Georgetown International Village’ was finally opened yesterday afternoon at Independence Park (formerly Parade Ground) on Middle Street, Georgetown, with some of the initial hiccups that delayed the opening still evident.
It was originally scheduled to have been opened Tuesday by President Bharrat Jagdeo.
And even the rescheduled opening yesterday was low key with several of the kiosks to vend food, drinks and craft items and other facilities not yet in place.
The festival, due to end April 9, is being held under the theme ‘Georgetown’s Celebration of the World’s Cultures’, and was organised by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to coincide with Guyana’s hosting of Cricket World Cup (CWC) tournament matches now under way.
The council expects the “culinary and cultural potpourri” to attract large crowds with its unique attractions that offer fun and entertainment for locals and visitors, enticing persons with displays of tasty treats, mouth watering meals and thirst quenching beverages from around the world.
Organisers said the event will be a culinary celebration of multicultural pride, proving that different ethnicities can come together and prosper, and will recognise the capital city’s growing diverse character.
A major feature is to be the showcasing of the world’s music, local artistes, dance and other cultural art forms, through nightly live performances on stage.
The March 27 to April 9 show will be under the patronage of Mayor Hamilton Green, and officials indicated that since the event was delayed by two days, a decision can be made to probably extend the closing date to make up for the lost time.
Officials from the council said many concessions have been allocated for the sale of local and international foods and beverages.
Organisers said an anticipated feature ‘Eat to the Boat’ concert series, will be packed with cultural performances by local artistes and top bands followed by comedy and steelpan music.
There will also be a play park for children with go-carts, merry go round and trampoline, too, all with a mission to promote awareness, appreciation and acceptance of the diverse cultures of the world.
Among those making remarks at yesterday’s opening were Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud; Deputy Mayor of Georgetown Robert Williams and Town Clerk Beulah Williams.