The Chief Executive Officer of Image Bureau, George Quaye has called on the creative industry to have an extensive discussion on holding live events in spite of coronavirus pandemic and the concomitant ban on public gatherings.
In an exclusive interview with ghanaweekend.com, George, also the host of ‘Late Night Express’ on Joy FM, said even though online concerts are the best options now, they can’t sustain the entertainment industry in this coronavirus period.
He noted that if innovative ideas are not proffered to make sure events are held in these times, the creative sector will be the hardest hit in these times.
“If things are changing and we are refusing to change, then we are the ones who are going to lose out,” he noted.
He said we can organise events by observing the coronavirus protocols because after all other people are moving out and working.
“Are people still sitting in buses and travelling? Yes. Will the airlines probably introduce measures that will make air travel possible? Yes. Because the economic motor of the world has to keep going round. The world can not come to an end because of coronavirus,” he further stated.
Citing as an example some models sent to him by his Canadian friend, he advised that Ghanaians could think along those lines.
The images depict event venues and set-ups that ensure social distancing, has places for sanitising, eateries, places for hand wash, among others.
According to the former Communications Director for Charterhouse, virtual concerts put a strain on performers and inhibit their crafts; it lacks the potential to attract sponsors, and internet service in Ghana is poor to help serve this cause.
Since the pandemic broke, musicians like Shatta Wale, Edem, Adina, and comedian OB Amponsah have held virtual concerts for their fans.
On April 13, 2020, there was also a COVID-19 Virtual Concert put together by the Ministry of Communications as a side attraction to the launch of the COVID-19 Tracker App.
On May 2, 2020, the third edition of 3Music Awards will be held online.
It is expected that more events will follow this example as long as the ban on public gathering is in effect.
Liste to George Quaye’s full interview with Kwame Dadzie below:
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By: Kwame Dadzie | ghanaweekend.com
