The skies were clear with a forecast of a bright afternoon and evening at the Lugogo Cricket Oval on Saturday. The festival kicked off with a flurry of activity. Guests indulged in a welcomed by the aromas from a diverse range of foods from beloved vendors like The Meat Guy. Interactive photo booths kept the bold and dazzlingly dressed snapping while the sun still shone. Engaging games kept the energy high with a section for the 3×3 basketball tournament adding a competitive edge.
Staring right into the stage was an alluring green and yellow glow from the Uganda Waragi and Bell Citrus tent. It was a fitting celebration of the flag colours for the Jamaican superstar to take the stage later as well as the zesty flavours in the cocktails at one end of the tent and free samplings of bell Citrus at the other.
According to Hillary Baguma, UBL Manager Mainstream Spirits, “Today we presented our innovations in Lemon and Ginger and Bell Citrus but it has also been inspiring to witness the creativity and vibrance on display here. As the spirit that binds, Uganda Waragi is proud to support this coming together of creatives for the Noise Nation.”
The crowd was warmed off with the Noise chill DJs including DJ Cross, Naselow and Vanss who played the hits of today and yesteryear. Then the stage was transformed into a runway as the Ekikumba Fashion show took centre stage. Lots of bold looks were on display and even readily available in their tents.
While the stars lit the night sky, the Swangz Avenue All-Stars also lit the stage up. Starting off with Azawi with a 10 over 10 performance, they gradually made their way through their joint album switching between solo, duo, trio performances with Zafran, Winnie Nwagi, Vinka, John Blak and Elijah Kitaka. The crowd erupted in chorus as the ensemble closed off their set with their infectious “God Ye Badde” hit.
A few surprise performances from the Mith, Navio, Nutty Neithan and Benon took a moment to step away from behind the producers’ desk to step on stage for a special reunion with Vamposs to get the crowd swaying in the ways they know best.
In the spirit of the Noise Nation, the skies also felt the echoes from Lugogo Cricket Oval as a marvellous fireworks display went off to commemorate the birth of the Noise Nation, which the organisers hope will become an annual event.
As the eyes returned from the clouds to the expansive stage, the man of the moment took the stage. He gave an energetic performance that left the crowd yearning for more.
Dexta Daps ignited the stage with a high-octane performance that transcended mere music. His stage presence was electrifying, captivating the audience with his dynamic dance moves, infectious energy and powerful vocals.
He seamlessly performed the hits from his dancehall catalogue, creating a unique sonic experience that had the crowd singing, dancing, and chanting along.
After a brief interlude, he gave a massive encore performance that can only be described as a masterclass in showmanship. In all, it was a night of high fashion, flavorful food and drinks and a lot of loud and proud expressions to sum up the first edition of the Noise Nation.
