Although there was some grumbling from fans upon hearing that the 11th annual festival would take place at an indoor venue (let alone one with a no-smoking policy), a closer look reveals that, as Bob Marley sang, everything's gonna be alright. For one thing, this is scheduled to be an indoor/outdoor affair, so smokers and sunshine-lovers can mill in and out of the Uptown between the scheduled hours of 3 p.m. and midnight. Also, each impressive lineup features a musical theme. On July 2, it's "Roots and Culture," with the Abyssinians heading a tradition-minded bill. On July 3, Jimmy Cliff (see below) caps off World Music Night, following sets by such local heavyweights as AZ-One, Green Card, and the Blue Riddim Band. July 4 offers a celebration of dance hall sounds, with Tech N9ne sure to start the fireworks early with his twilight set. The dance hall flavor runs throughout the weekend, with a continuous dance night taking place in the Valentine Room. Also on tap is a marketplace for international and local arts, crafts, clothing, jewelry, and artifacts, as well as a special area dedicated to children. So get up, stand up, and head for the Uptown, where the sunny vibe promises to translate well into the great indoors.
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