Prime Minister Defends ‘Level Up’ Push Amid Dispute Over Festival Sound System

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended the government’s call for improvements to Antigua and Barbuda’s festival production standards, saying the push to “level up” is about raising national performance levels rather than targeting any individual.

Speaking during his weekly radio programme on Saturday, Browne addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding discussions about acquiring a new sound system for major national events such as Carnival and One Nation.

The Prime Minister said the issue has been discussed for years and stressed that the government’s objective is to improve the quality of stage and sound production as the country positions itself as an international destination for festivals and conferences.

“We are leveling up. It is not a derogatory term and it is not about being ungrateful to anyone who has provided services in the past,” Browne said. “It is about improving standards so that Antigua and Barbuda can compete internationally.”

He revealed that the government has already purchased a new stage measuring approximately 119 feet long and more than 60 feet wide, which he said will improve performances at Panorama and other major events.

According to Browne, the new stage is expected to arrive within two weeks and is designed to replace the traditional wooden stages previously used at Recreation Ground. He said the upgraded structure will provide better durability, aesthetics, and value for money over time.

“The stage could last a decade or more, and when you amortize the cost over several years, it makes more financial sense than rebuilding wooden stages every year,” he explained.

The Prime Minister also addressed criticism from a local sound provider, Whitney Williams, who has publicly objected to the government’s discussions about acquiring its own system.

Browne said the government has not yet finalized its decision but warned that if local providers submit no satisfactory proposals, the administration may proceed to purchase a system.

“We are not afraid to buy our own system if necessary,” he said. “It would actually cost the people of Antigua and Barbuda less over time.”

He added that discussions have taken place with local industry figures about upgrading existing equipment through partnerships or government financing.

The Prime Minister said the push for higher standards is tied to Antigua and Barbuda’s growing role as a host for international events.

He noted that during the recent Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference, the country had to bring in overseas production services at a cost exceeding US$1 million because local systems did not meet international requirements.

Browne said future events may require similar standards, especially as Antigua and Barbuda seeks to attract large global productions.

“If these smaller islands in the OECS can provide better sound and better stages for their music festivals, then Antigua and Barbuda should not remain at the same level,” he said.

Browne also reiterated that the government is willing to work with local providers to improve production quality, but maintained that the country cannot remain stagnant.

“If you fail to level up, you will be left behind—not because we want to leave anyone behind, but because the country must continue to advance,” he said.

The Prime Minister indicated that Cabinet will review any proposal submitted by local sound operators in the coming week before determining the next steps regarding the acquisition of a national sound system.