The vision of one man, Eric Blagrove, combined with the organizational talents of Cezar Brumeneau Productions, and a strong network of dedicated professionals and volunteers, has become that which was intended, a united stand against violence, through music. Reggae Music. The Festival brings to the forefront a genre of music unlike any other during the past fifty or more years. For many of us, it is one of peace, love and unity that cannot, and has not, been reflected in other styles, by other artists.
As one has come to expect, each year the artists are selected carefully to bring their message forth to the young people in our various communities: violence is not the answer, violence is not necessary in daily living, violence has no place in music, and music should not promote violence. With such a strong presentation from the wide range of international artists secured by Cezar, the MIRF has grown each year, in size, variety, community and corporate support, however the message remains the same.
For those avid reggae fans who attended in the past years at the Old Port of Montreal, a second stage area was established in 2006 with no admission charge, and this year promises much more with the addition of yet another stage added in close proximity, again encouraging more attendance, more craft and food vendor opportunities, and more enjoyment of all the Festival provides.
During the three day festival, veteran performers such as Black Uhuru, Third World, Tony Rebel, Frankie Paul, Kymani Marley and Tanya Mullings will grace the stage and leave attendees spellbound! Talented newcomers Queen Ifrica, Turbulence, Steele and local entertainers Jah Cutta and Kulcha Connection will generate excitement throughout. The showstopper comes on the last day of the Festival as many of us will sail into the night as we enjoy a boatcruise with Luciano (unplugged) featuring Dean Fraser and Mikey General.
Refreshments, the MIRF has a wide variety of local Caribbean restaurants on site, many of which provide strictly Ital food. A wide range of vendors will provide you with latest styles, printed shirts, hats, cocoa butter, ornaments and music. Don’t forget to pick up your MIRF souvenir shirts and DVD’s and keep on the lookout for SistahD and StyleDiva!
For more information and artist lineups visit www.montrealreggaefestival.com
For tickets – contact:
Ticketpro:
Montreal...514-908-9090
Toronto...416-645-9090
International...1-866-908-9090
www.ticketpro.ca
New York City:
VP Records Retail Stores...718-297-5802
Toronto:
Tipper's Restaurant...416-240-8335
Treajah Isle Records…416-787-7615
Tropical Records…416-749-0550
Strickly Roots…416-757-1024
Wires Variety…416-531-2616
Gem's West Indian Grocery…905-458-4400
Irie Veggie Rest…416-653-4825
Granney's…905-272-4950
Ottawa:
Caramel Cuts…613-241-2500
Fades Barber Shop…613-230-3233
