Partygoers ‘bruk bad’ - Promoters say late night ‘do road’ culture hard to change

The holiday party season is predicted to be a big one, and promoters are urging partygoers to make the effort to change their attitude of coming out late.

"For too long we have been seeing individuals show up to parties four hours late or when the party is to close off; this after they leave home 1:30 a.m., and then complain when the music has to cut off 30 minutes later on their arrival," Careem Mullings told THE STAR.

The promoter of popular events Mojito Mondays and Maps shared that the local party culture is a difficult one to manipulate, several states of public emergency (SOEs) aside.

"People are used to going out much later to pre-party drinks and then to the final stop for the night," he said.

Similarly, Hotspot Sunday Brunch promoter Ian Miles said: "Jamaica partygoers bruk bad, not that I remember where we have ever been a culture of sticking to the time. But I believe if we can purchase a ticket to go to a movie that starts at 8 p.m., and not show up late, likewise some of these same people go overseas and respect hours designated for parties. So we should be able to stay within the time restrictions ... for an event here."

He believes the late night 'do road' mentality has been the same for generations, where everybody feels somebody else must 'start the party'.

Follow the rules

Miles said: "I think if people can follow the rules throughout the busy holiday party season, we can all benefit. Remember, not all parties are affected by this. But the nature of how we are, the culture and attitude (change) is not going to happen overnight."

But selector Boom Boom's viewpoint differed from the promoters.

He said: "The dedicated partygoers will come out early this month but the main reason fi come out is because there is more than one party or promoter to support in one night ... dem mus' reach one late."

He said that the calendar is not always the easiest, with obstacles ranging from unforeseen issues with venue set-up to increased traffic.

He also suggested that there are persons, both locals and visitors, wanting to maximise on their money and party experience by party hopping.

"So yes, partygoers might bruk bad but one thing is certain, the promoters much less the selectors are not responsible for that. There are still a select few who want to see a venue ram from the gate open and go as planned; the holiday season deserves a bit of compromise from all levels," Boom Boom said.