Jamaica’s internationally renowned Reggae Sumfest show not only showcased an illustrious lineup of local and international artists but also transformed their backstage bathroom for the media into a tropical rainforest resplendent in colour and movement.

You would not have been far off if you thought you were in some exotic section of the Amazon Forest; perhaps all that was missing were the birds and animals, as the washroom was decked in hues of green, white, and yellow foliage and flowers.

Beautiful tendrils draped downwards as palms bedecked the comfortable seating area, and the tent panels swept upwards to create a wonderland feel.

One international journalist said it was “a great chill spot,” with water barrels and other refreshment on the ready, while home-based scribes appreciated the respect shown to the purveyors of their craft, noting that there was no comparison with other show venues.

The creative brainchild of artistic director Roy Miller, whose Creativity in Communication vehicle mastered the space, the washroom was a definite highlight of the reggae, dancehall, and afro-beat experience that was Sumfest 2024 at Montego Bay’s Catherine Hall complex.

“Space and colour are facets of nature that can inspire and soothe. Creativity in communication is driven by artistic motives that re-imagine empty areas to create beauty with functionality; that is our mantra,” Miller notes.

Another area of the production that elicited approval was the pumped-up safety presence, with over 100 safety monitors recruited and trained over the two months preceding the show.

Antonio Peterkin, assisted by the St. James Fire Department, was the force behind the safety show.