What initially started out as a small club event three years ago has morphed into one of the most anticipated events for college and university students.

On December 20 the latest staging of Fanatic will unfold at 36 Hope Road in St Andrew.

Along with a black theme, the organisers have enlisted high-riding dancehall artiste Tommy Lee Sparta as its main attraction.

Justin Campbell, a director of Fanatic, told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash on Wednesday how he was able to get Tommy Lee Sparta for the event’s line-up.

“We were able to make this happen through a mutual connection, and our team was extremely excited to bring it to life, especially given the ongoing rivalry between him and fellow dancehall artiste Masicka. The idea was well received by Tommy Lee’s team, and we have remained in close dialogue since, with them being very communicative and supportive throughout the process. This performance will be nothing short of iconic,” said Campbell.

Aside from Tommy Lee Sparta, several top-flight DJs will provide musical juggling to keep patrons entertained.

“At the next staging of Fanatic, patrons can expect nothing short of excitement and pure energy. Every element has been thoughtfully planned and executed to deliver an experience unlike anything they have seen before. From our dancehall-infused segments catering to diverse tastes, to the brand-new venue layout we are set to reveal, this event will be our most impressive yet. We are truly excited to see the reactions from everyone who will be attending,” Campbell shared.

He continued: “Fyahman x Vinchi, ZJ Romzii and Brush 1, A-Team, Kevi the Kinetic Kryptic and Chiney K are the DJs that we have providing the music.”

Campbell explained the idea behind the black theme.

“It was an idea we had in mind for a long time and always wanted to execute. We chose it because it is simple, suspenseful, and unlike anything we have seen other parties attempt. We incorporated the theme into our marketing, and even into our artiste selection, as we believe he embodies it perfectly. On the day of the event the venue will fully reflect this concept and, if it is executed as envisioned, we will certainly continue to introduce more exciting and unique themes to our future events,” Campbell reasoned.

He explained how the event has grown and evolved since the first edition in July 2022.

“We had no performances and absolutely no idea how it would turn out. However, that night we completely shattered expectations. The venue was filled to twice its capacity, with patrons spilling outside. As a result, we soon had to move to larger venues, and this was when we began adding performances to our attractions. Some of the notable artistes who performed during this period include Valiant, The 9ine, and Marksman,” said Campbell.

“Fanatic has always been defined by one thing, and that is growth. What began as a simple club event has evolved into one of Kingston’s largest and most anticipated parties. With every staging we prioritise our patrons and aim to deliver excitement and thrill that no other party can replicate. We are now consistently hosting thousands of attendees, we believe our growth will continue, driven by the unwavering support of our patrons.”

The organisers of Fanatic have decided to make it easier for students of The University of the West Indies who wish to attend the event. There is a specially discounted ticket price in place. Holders of those tickets will be shuttled free of cost to the event.