by Omeshnie Naidoo
Chris Brown may just be a VVVVVIP guest at the Vodacom Durban July.
Tent town newcomers Mabala Noise, is bringing the American artist to Durban as the headline act at the Mother of All Parties on July 2 and, who knows, he may just drop by.
Africomm Productions, that will present the inaugural Opulence All White party hosted by SA’s “god of the North” daLES promises a stellar line-up including a “surprise international act”.
Needless to say, the event attracts an array of celebs and socialites who, among the 50 000 other guests, must be entertained.
According to organisers, in 2014, the Vodacom Durban July generated a revenue of R440 million for the region and it’s not for nothing.
Planning begins weeks before the event as caterers, decorators, florists and other contractors work in tandem to put on a spectacular show.
Edwina Brown, VDJ Marquee Village Co-ordinator, says: “On Thursday, up to 40 chefs will prepare 8 000 delicious portions of curry, 2 600 delicate pieces of sushi and 1 200 oysters. Copious amounts of alcohol are expected to be consumed on Saturday.
“The lavishly decorated marquee village alone will host 12 000 revellers serviced by 3 500 waitrons, bar staff and hostesses.
“Surrounding the 30 striking marquee tents, complete with theme-appropriate bespoke decor, will be 3 000m of steel fencing and 1500m of picket fencing with 11 000m2 of flooring covering the field and providing a stable ground for the multiple dance floors, plasma TV’s, fully stocked bars and delicious buffets.
“This year, for the first time in Africa, four incredible double-decker marquees have gone up on the green.”
“New this year is a boost to the public area with the involvement of SABC. The public will have an upgraded area to relax and enjoy the racing on the big screen and purchase food and drinks.”
Sim Tshabalala, event director for Durban Tourism, will host 700 guests at the pristine Royal Durban Golf Club.
“Durban is the leader of the pack, especially in winter. It is where all of South Africa comes to play. Like birds, it’s where we flock.”
In this case, 500 origami birds made in the image of the blue crane will float above tables and lavish bouquets of Proteas and Strelizia. Each flock will be led by an orange leader to complete Durban Tourism’s colours.
It’s a proudly South African décor scene.
There will be a state-of-the-art dance floor, local fashion shows, celebrity hosts. Somizi Mhlongo, TV’s man of the moment, will surely be busy on the day.
Haroun Hansrot entered the gig industry this year, teaming up with young businessman Wendel Naidoo to form Wolf and Wallstreet. The fashion designer has gone from making the garments for his elite clientele to helping them plan their shindigs.
Hansrot says guests can expect plenty of red at Global Event, another double-decker marquee.
“The look is classy and opulent because that is what the VDJ is about. There’s a perspex ramp for the scheduled fashion show and large screens, an oyster bar, dozens of chandeliers and Moet on tap.
“Jack Daniel’s Sound City is a city of marquees within 10 000m2, and we are expecting an attendance of 5 000 people,” says event owner, Russell Scott.
“We’re using white bedouin marquees, and A-frame marquees. There will be a variety of lounges, and cocktail furniture, mostly black and white with inspirational flower arrangements. There will be raised hospitality decks, two giant, digital stage screens, VIP and general café-style restaurants and ATM facilities. It will be divided into a general access area, a VIP lounge, and a VVIP lounge.
“The view from Jack Daniel’s Sound City is unparalleled. The site is positioned on the front line of the race. Guests will have the opportunity to watch the horses as they turn for home on the main straight and will literally be 10m from the horse racing action.”
Brown says newcomers to look out for are the Vuyo restaurant and Pavilion Shopping Centre, while staples such as Sibaya are also sure to impress.