There’s now a buzz across Trinidad and Tobago as event promoters, inclusive of artistes who are bent on keeping the spirit of Carnival and Soca music, alive, are announcing events at venues dubbed, ‘safe zones’ for vaccinated patrons, across the country.

Beginning on February 22nd, the Sound Forge which stands at Lot 6, Christopher Samuel Drive, Mucurapo, will host something called, ‘Defend We Culture.’ It’s a bold statement being made by the team as they prepare to stage seven shows over a seven day period.

“We know that this is not an ideal situation, but we felt as though so much has been missed over the past two years as not just us, but the world has had to adapt to our ‘new normal’,” said Sound Forge’s Communications Consultant, Leisel Douglas. She explained that the team saw a unique opportunity to utilise the Sound Forge to ‘Defend the Culture’ and its magic during this time. It’s the most viable option against losing the essence of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and not proofing it for generations to come.

Partnering with various stakeholders, Sound Forge has put together an impressive calendar featuring many aspects of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. Douglas said the experience will feature traditional Carnival characters, soca artistes, calypsonians, and a Carnival Village. Shows start on February 22nd with Freetown Collective and run throughout Carnival week culminating with David Rudder’s High Mas on Carnival Monday, February 28th. Sound Forge will partner with the Port- of- Spain City Corporation for a fusion of pan and calypso carded for Carnival Friday, February 25th.  Also headlining shows are Preedy and 3 Canal with the A-Team Band commanding Saturday’s offering.

“The venue is a verified safe zone and prep work is ongoing to facilitate the events,” Douglas explained. “We did Kes last year, so a lot of what we need is already in place. Seats will be socially distanced, sanitisation stations available throughout the venue, proof of vaccination for entry is a must, and we intend to go below even what is considered a safe capacity for the venue,” she said.

Tickets for show access both physically and virtually went on sale on Monday February, 7th. Tickets for the physical access are only available at the box office located at the venue. For additional details, follow @sound.forge on Instagram.