20/08/2024
PUBLIC STATEMENT
"Important Clarification Regarding Recent Online Statements”
Dear esteemed fans and followers,
Thank you for being supportive and despite the ups and downs we've had as a starter up platform. Our aim as a platform is to allow for upcoming artists to get a platform to perform and express themselves live in front of an audience. We are certainly trying our best to give everyone a slot and we will certainly improve on alot as this is our third year and the first we are having esteemed guests.
However, it has come to our attention that an artist we will not name due to respecting their privacy, has been commenting and spreading false allegations that we did not pay them.
We have been made aware of false and misleading statements posted online by a former collaborating artist. The statements in question relate to our collaboration and compensation. We feel it necessary to address these claims and provide clarity to our community.
Last year, we had no prior agreement with artists and no artist gets paid for performing unless:
1. They are getting their compensation for not performing on stage
2. They are getting compensation for being bullied and or treated in an ill manner by the public AND the company members and fellow artists and step down from performing.
This however was imposed this year after having half of the performance list drop out without prior explanation which in turn inconvenienced the entire show. We still managed to get things together on time and we thank everyone that came through for staying with us despite the hurdles faced.
To the artist in question, who had performed, we send our sincere apologies. We can only do so much.
However, we would like to inform you that persistence of virtual harassment and defamation of character, or any physical disturbances will lead to legal action.
We hope that it will not have to come to that, as we can reach a mutual understanding once more.
To the Chocolate Experience community and to future performers and partners, we hope to work in unity for a smooth running event.
We want to assure our audience that we have always operated with transparency and integrity. Due to unforeseen expenses and short notice, we obtained consent from all participating artists, including the individual in question, to proceed without payment.
This was a mutual understanding and we are disappointed to see it being misrepresented.
To everyone supporting us and to this year's artist lineup and invited guests, we appreciate your love and support and belief in us. We will do better.
We value our relationships with artists and stakeholders and are committed to maintaining a positive and respectful environment. We will not engage in online arguments but will take necessary steps to protect our reputation and integrity.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
Sincerely,
PR Management,
The Chocolate Experience.