Entertainment

Controversy over Beyonce show inTrinidad and Tobago

Controversy over Beyonce show inTrinidad and Tobago

By Agencies

Trinidad and Tobago: Promoters for the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival are calling for the local sponsors of an upcoming BEYONCE concert to reschedule the show - because the gig will siphon funds from the annual cultural celebrations. The R&B superstar is due to perform in the Caribbean country on 18 February (10) - just two days after the massive two-day Carnival event wraps. Several concerned performers, promoters and bandleaders have teamed up to urge Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago executive Roberto Peon to postpone the gig. Gregory Fernandes, who is spearheading the campaign, estimates it will cost TSTT up to $30 million (£18.75 million) to pay for the singer's performance - money he insists should be used for hosting the festival. He tells the Trinidad & Tobago Express, "We want to discuss with TSTT the position they have taken to present Beyonce in concert so soon after Carnival and their decision to cut back and even pull sponsorship of Carnival events. "They will need to prepare (Beyonce's) venue to accommodate the 25,000-plus audience, they need to break even and when you take into consideration what may be on Beyonce's rider, that can be an additional three quarter million or more. "We have nothing against Beyonce. We are just saying that it is insensitive to bring her at this time. It will affect all Carnival stakeholders because, you know, it's not just a case of people forgoing fetes and shows to buy tickets. What about those who depend on Carnival to earn income? No patrons at events or no events mean that all service providers are out of a dollar. As a corporation of which 51 per cent is Government-owned, TSTT needs to provide answers to the cultural fraternity."