Taboo reopens this weekend - ... But gentleman’s club will now operate as sports bar

Having been shuttered since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, Taboo Nightclub, a prominent gentleman's club in Jamaica, is set to open its door to visitors, starting this weekend. However, with a ban on the opening of nightclubs being in place as part of measures to contain the infectious COVID-19, Taboo's operations will take on a new flavour.

"Due to the significant changes to our daily lives caused by COVID-19, one must pivot for survival, hence our rebranding to Taboo Sports Bar and Lounge," the proprietor, Shemara Todd, told THE WEEKEND STAR.

Under existing COVID-19 protocols, no entertainment events are allowed at sports bars, and no more than 60 per cent of the venue must be occupied at any given time. In addition, there must be at least six feet of space between dining tables, and a maximum of four persons are allowed to sit at a table.

Todd said that the new-look Taboo will be able to deliver the customer experience being sought by patrons, while ensuring that the COVID-19 protocols are followed.

"People come to Taboo for the taboo experience, which we strongly believe we are still capable of delivering. It has been our greatest pleasure in highlighting the talent of our Jamaican entertainers. Our ladies who dance throughout all our locations are also skilled gymnasts and acrobats, and being able to touch them was only an added bonus. Our guest, usually, are thoroughly entertained by just watching."

She said that the past seven months have been challenging, with the doors of its three locations in Kingston, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay being closed for the entire period. The Taboo workforce amounts to approximately 200 people.

Todd said that adult entertainment facilities have suffered tremendous fallout due to COVID-19 and the accompanying measures implemented by the Government. "I understand our government is only trying its best, but every other business had been granted a way to open ... it feels as though no one cares about our existence. I have only managed to stay afloat by being hopeful," she said.

"I'm only looking a fair opportunity to save my business that I've invest my life in, I'm sure others are in the same boat. We only ask for more consideration, with all due respect," said Todd.

The Kingston branch will open for what is dubbed 'Just a Taste', this Saturday, October 10, from 3 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. Taboo Montego Bay will reopen a week later, but no announcements have been made for Taboo Ocho Rios.