This is the fifth in an eight-part series on reggae summer festivals around the world.
THE Montreal International Reggae Festival (MIRF) celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and, true to form, its line-up reflects the Canadian city’s diverse population.Chris Combette from French Guyana, Kes and the Band out of Trinidad and Tobago, and Takana Zion of Guinea, will perform alongside Jamaican acts Yellowman, Shaggy, Morgan Heritage, Mr Vegas, Freddie McGregor, Cocoa Tea, Beenie Man, and Tifa.Richard Lafrance, publicist for the August 16-18 festival, says this year’s focus will be on unity through reggae music.“This is a genre that has been embraced with love globally, and it will be manifested at MIRF through strong, diverse headlining acts,” he said in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.Lafrance says the festival — first held in 2004 — has not only seen a steady increase in patrons, but “general excitement within many communities in and around Montreal”.Since its launch, he estimates that over 150,000 fans have attended the MIRF which again takes place at the historic Old Port of Montreal.According to Lafrance, the MIRF has become increasingly popular with an international audience.“Major acts globally are keen on appearing. The festival has become a tradition of sorts for both musicians and patrons,” he said.A new attraction in August are workshops which enable participants (artistes, promoters, and managers) to network with colleagues.Lafrance points out that the MIRF means more than just music for one of Canada’s largest commercial centres.“It winds up the holiday spirit and is one of few events attracting thousands of not only tourists, but also local consumers, to give the economy in Montreal a much-welcomed boost.”A section of the crowd at the Montreal International Reggae Festival. (PHOTO: KEITHUS SAMUELS)View the original article here
Wi Jammin" in Montreal
