EXPATS in Paralimni are preparing to host a benefit concert for victims of the Haiti earthquake next month that will feature performances from over a dozen local artists.
The extravaganza will be a first for the community and could pack as many as 800 people into a local concert hall.
Sandy Pearce, who organised the event, said: “I was so touched by what happened in Haiti that I felt we must all club together and do something.
A small idea to stage a concert snowballed and now we have nearly finished the preparations for what should be a big event.”
Many local artists who work on the busy club and pub entertainment circuit offered their time and services for the event, which will run for almost five hours.
As an additional bonus, several artists have recorded a special Help for Haiti song which is being played on local radio and the CD will be on sale during the concert.
The song called “For What’s Right” is performed by Tony Hallinan and will provide the climax to the show at the concert.
The CD will also feature tracks recorded by other artists and all proceeds will also go to the Haiti fund.
“CD sales will really help to boost the proceeds we hand to the Cyprus Red Cross who are trying to build a hospital in Haiti,” Pearce added.
Organisers were hoping for a record audience on the night, with early ticket sales booming.
“All of the performers have given their time for free and we have all worked flat out to make sure this event raises as much as possible.
“We wanted to make sure money raised does not get eaten by administrative costs. That’s why we have chosen the Cyprus Red Cross, who have assured us everything raised will go directly to Haiti.”
The evening will be hosted by compere Wayne B and feature live performances from Ian Saxman, Pamela DuBarrie, The Third Dimension, Dean Ross, The Jail House Blues Brothers, Lee Jackson, Nick James, The Rock Chicks, Simon Barter, Steve Fury and Tony Hallinan.
Doris Kearney who is also helping with the arrangements said that despite organisers having to pay for the rental of the hall, there are no others expenses.
“Every penny we raise will go to where it is needed and I know that is something people do worry about nowadays,” she said.
Since the devastating earthquake in Haiti last month, aid in the form of relief workers, money, food and other provisions has poured in to help the Caribbean nation.
Officials estimate the earthquake has killed about 200,000 people and affected an estimated three million – about a third of Haiti’s population.
Last week the U.N. Secretary-General appealed to the international community for more than $1.4 billion to assist the three million Haitians directly impacted the earthquake for the rest of this year.
The Cyprus government has sent humanitarian aid worth €122,000 and an additional €100,000 in financial aid.
Tents, dry food, serum, tinned meat and other provisions have also been donated from Cyprus to Haiti.
The Haiti concert will take place on Friday March 19 at the Polycarpos Hall in Paralimni and tickets cost €18. Tickets can be booked by calling 96532231.
