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More than 200 islanders have so far thrown their weight behind a bid to change an old Jersey law by a music promoter whose event was unable to go ahead due to a ‘no dancing’ Good Friday rule.
But Robin O’Toole of Vanguard DnB is hoping for more – 1,000 are needed for a Ministerial response, while 5,000 are required for a potential debate in the States Assembly.
Vanguard DnB were set to host a ‘Malice in Wonderland’ Easter event at St. John’s L’Auberge du Nord pub, including two UK headliners, on Good Friday.
However, Mr O’Toole had to postpone the event just days before it was due to go ahead after finding out about an old Jersey law prohibiting dancing on Good Friday.
He explained that the Bailiff’s Chamber phoned to explain why the event could not go ahead, which he “really appreciated”.
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That did not stem the confusion his postponement announcement generated.
“The younger generation weren’t aware of [the law] and were bemused with this,” he told Express.
Article 72 of Jersey's 1974 Licensing Law restricts entertainment venues from providing music and dancing on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Jersey is the only island to still follow the ‘no dancing’ tradition. Guernsey and Alderney, along with France and the UK, have already changed their laws and have since seen bars and nightclubs open on Good Friday.
Mr O’Toole launched a petition to get the law changed earlier this week, and is hoping to get “many signatures”. At the time of writing, he has secured the backing of 245 islanders so far.
Despite the disruption, the event was able to be rescheduled for Easter Sunday. With 70% of the tickets having been sold, Mr O’Toole said “it was good to get it over the line.”
Fortunately, Mr O’Toole said they didn’t end up refunding many people as they understood the situation.
“It ended up being a really fantastic event…everyone had a really good time.”
He also praised the venue for being “really accommodating” in allowing the event to be rescheduled.
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Video: The event was rescheduled and able to go ahead on Easter Sunday instead.
“I would just like to thank the L’Auberge management, DJ Shawny, Lee Flab, Olly, Hayden, and all the local DJs and performers and anyone else I forgot to mention."
He added: “it's great to do these events and give 15 local DJs the opportunity to play.
"It’s so important to offer a platform to young artists.”
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