By: Zethu Gweva
To raise awareness about the collapsing events industry, the #lightSAred campaign will take place in Vincent Park in East London.
According to the owner of Dynamic Sounds Craig Ollis the #lightSAred campaign started in Europe where technical events companies found themselves in a dire position as they are unable to work due to the pandemic.
“Many events companies have been unable to make an income since 15 March 2020. My company, Dynamic Sounds has not received any funding. I am responsible to pay rent. I have debt to pay back. Our ability to work has been denied,” he said.
Ollis expressed that the industry contributes to job creation and to the economy of South Africa.
“Right now our technicians are losing their jobs. The freelance technical community that relies on our industry cannot even earn any income,” he said.
On the fifth of August 2020, the #lightSAred took place around the country but due to the rain on Wednesday night in East London, the event was postponed.
“We decided to host the event in Vincent Park in East London on Saturday. The event technical suppliers in East London have organised this event. Music bands, Dj’s and performing artists will be there,” said Ollis.
Vincent Park Shopping Centre will be lit red at 17h30 until 19:00. A stage with band and DJ equipment will be set-up, however, no one will be playing any music.
According to Ollis, this signifies the reality that the industry is collapsing.
He expressed that the industry needs government financial assistance.
“If we do not receive support soon, our industry will close. If that happens, we will have no entertainment available once this COVID-19 pandemic is over,” said Ollis.
All events co-coordinators have been invited to participate in the #lightSAred.
“We have invited DJ’s, music bands, performing artists to stand with us and these people have been directly impacted by the shutdown of the events industry,” Ollis.