Nestled in what has been termed the Capital of Castries, ‘The People’s Auditorium,’ - the Mindoo Phillip Park, will again serve as the home for the official Opening of the region’s most highly anticipated musical spectacle - the 24th edition of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.

Carded for April 30th, thousands of festival goers are expected to flock to the popular venue for a lineup featuring an all-star cast of Caribbean powerhouses designed to jumpstart the festival.

Red hot Jamaican reggae superstar Chronixx will headline the Opening, which will also feature flamboyant Trinidad and Tobago Soca Queen Destra, who will be backed up by the Bakanal Band.

Veteran and decorated kaiso and soca phenomenon De Invader will lead the local cast of performers, which will also include reigning Groovy King, the versatile Arthur Allain, themelodicSherwinn "Dupes" Brice and youth heart throbs Sedale & Wildfire.

“Not only are we planning to thrill audiences with the diverse all-star cast of regional and local entertainers down to perform at the Opening, we are also seeking to create that ‘wow factor’ when patrons enter the venue,” says Tourist Board’s Special Events Manager, Dahlia Guard.

According to Guard, “From the traditional set up involving the stage, artistes’ area, VIP, accommodation and concessionaire booths, to even the public entry points we aim to re-fresh this event and kick off the Jazz Festival season by creating a feeling of palpable excitement and energy that will permeate the entire 24th edition of the festival.”