Woodleigh Sports Complex in Clarendon is the new venue for this year’s staging of Summa Sizzle, the event promoted by deejay Beenie Man.

Nickeewah Panton, project coordinator for the event, outlined what will be different about the event scheduled for August 10.

‘This year’s event is geared towards the entire family with a myriad of attractions, including a games arcade, stunt bike expo, go-karts, domino masters competition, six-a-side football, netball and cricket competitions. There will also be a health and back-to-school fair, sound clash bolstered by live performances. The latter half of the show will unveil a grand concert segmented by themes including a best of the ’90s showcase, a singers paradise and an international and iconic segment,” said Panton.

“International acts are being booked and we are working on confirming the local artistes to ensure a rounded slate so we can meet the needs of our patrons who are crying for diversification of reggae and dancehall festivals on the local scene,” he continued.

The first Summa Sizzle was held in 2004. Last year’s staging took place at the Jamalco Sports Club, also in Clarendon, and it was announced that discussions are already at an advanced stage with potential sponsors, to ensure the event continues the legacy that it has built over the years.

Part proceeds from last year’s staging of Summa Sizzle went toward the St Augustine Boys’ Home in the parish. The institution will again be this year’s beneficiary. Panton also noted that communities within Clarendon have benefited from the staging of Summa Sizzle.

“Last year’s event saw persons benefiting in various capacities. We engaged a community-based production company to provide stage, sound and lighting. Ninety per cent of our food vendors were from the parish of Clarendon. Traffic, parking and clean-up crews were also led and managed by Clarendonians without incident. We are definitely looking forward to working with them again for an exceptional staging and we are happy to know that they have made this event their own which makes the decision of venue choice an easy one. The more support we receive from the community the more we are able to give back. We are very grateful for all the support that we garnered last year which enabled us to give back in a very meaningful way,” said Panton.