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Eight for
the stage by Rochelle Baptiste Eight young ladies are currently undergoing intense training for the 2005 Miss SVG Beauty Pageant. The pageant will be held on Saturday May 28, and is the first event on the calendar of activities for Vincy Mas 2005. Speaking at the first press conference for the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) earlier this week, Chief Executive Officer Ashford Wood said this year’s competition promises to showcase the diversity of Vincentian young women. He said the Beauty Shows Committee, once again headed by Cheryl Rodriguez, has planned a hectic schedule of events for the delegates leading up to the competition. The delegates will make their first public appearance at the official launch of Vincy Mas 2005 on Saturday May 7. Wood said the committee has also started early preparations with the delegates for the talent segment of the competition, which will be done a little differently this year. Among the gifts the winner of Miss SVG 2005 will receive is a university scholarship.
Scores Reassessed
by Zhinga Greaves There has been a reassessment of the initial results for the Senior Panorama Competition at the Dimanche Gras show. A release from the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) states that further reassessments revealed that the tabulation by the auditors have reorganized the positions so that Cable and Wireless Starlift Steel Orchestra retains the first place, the National Lotteries Authority Sion Hill Euphonium remains in the second position, with the third position being assigned to AT&T Wireless Rhythmix. The Potential Steel Orchestra placed fourth and the Steel Band Elite of Edinboro takes the fifth position. Those are the final results of the tally of all scores by the judges. They have been re-certified by both judges and auditors and made available to all parties for their scrutiny. The CDC is apologizing for the earlier mix-up in the initial release of results and is congratulating all participating steel bands.
Carnival Results
by Richard MacLeish Following the Calypso Semifinals competition, dubbed Fantastic Friday, the judges have picked ten finalists to come up against reigning Monarch Princess Monique at Dimanche Gras on Sunday July 4. Last Friday night, the lucky ten include Exposer, Pat Ralph, Patches, I-Come, Brother Ebony, Fatty Dan, Bum-E, and former monarchs Man Age, Vibrating Scakes and Sulle. Meanwhile, the preliminary judging in the 2004 International Soca Monarch competition saw a record 80 entries with the Carnival Development Corporation increasing the number of finalists from 14 to 17. This they say is due to the large number and quality of compositions. The 17 include Alla-G, Pat Ralph, Shaunelle McKenzie, Syxx, three-time monarch Fireman Hooper, Bowmani, Johnny Rebel, former monarchs Dennis Bowman and Poorsah, DJ20, and new-comers Fimba, Stinga Nettle, Busta Ski, Skinny Fabulous, Ranking Bash, and Icon. In reserve are Coyaba and Papa Istan. The 17 will attempt to dethrone reigning monarch Maddzart on Saturday July 3. In Mas news, SVG Players International clinched the Junior Band of the Year title for a first time with Viva Las Vegas, followed by Dragons’ Fanfare, and Nelson Bloc’s Our Caribbean Civilization. The Best Section went to Blondie Bird and Friends’ Mariachi, with Nelson Bloc’s Pan 22nd. Tying for third were Players’ Chips and Dragons’ Fantasia. Other major titles include Junior Queen of Carnival by Players’ Jolesia Pollard portraying Jewel of the Nile. Nelson Bloc’s Angelica Boyea with Integration was 2nd, and Blondie’s Alicia John took 3rd with Fan Bearer. The Junior King went to Blondie’s Atron Lockhart with Conquest of Mexic Military, followed by Players’ Dorian George with Playing Cards, and Dragons’ Chavez Smith with Dance Sailor Dance.
Twenty Picked
by Keisha Phillips The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Calypsonians Association (SVGCA) today announced the semifinalists for the National Calypso competition. Of the twenty semifinalists chosen, six are from the Graduates Calypso Tent in the persons of Lexi, Little Bit, Fatty Dan, Sulle, Brother Ebony, and Bum-E. The Vibrating Scakes, Toiler and Ginny were selected from the Calypso Theatre; Patches and Sunny Banks from the Stars Tent; and Ipa, Abijah and Pat Ralph from On Tour. The others are Blogo, Super Links and I-Come of the North South Leeward Tent; and Exposer, Man Age and Groovy-D from Dynamites Tent. Zion-I and Jah Burke have been selected as reserves. The Calypso Semifinals will be held on Friday, June 25 at the Victoria Park from 7:00pm. Ten finalists will be selected to come up against reigning national monarch Princess Monique of Graduates, who last week successfully defended the Queen of Calypso crown.
Junior Pan
by Rochelle Baptiste Ten junior steel orchestras are in the line-up for this year’s Cable & Wireless Junior Panorama competition. This year’s event, organized by the Youlou Pan Movement, will see the Adelphi Secondary School making their debut. The other participating orchestras are defending champions Sion Hill Euphonium, Girls High School, Junior Starlift, St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua, Union Island Secondary, Troumaca Primary, St. Vincent Grammar School and CW Prescod Primary School. Junior Panorama, which is set for Thursday July 1, would be held at the Arnos Vale Netball Complex. According to the organizers, the change in venue is to facilitate the increase in crowd support and the increase in participants.
North Windward Carnival
by Rochelle Baptiste The curtains came down on the North Windward Carnival on Saturday with a massive J’ouvert and street jump up through the streets of Georgetown. But before revelers took to the street there was the beauty pageant on Friday night. Taking the crown was sixteen year-old Sabrina Browne of Mt. Grenan. She copped the Best Swimwear, Best talent and Best Evening Wear categories of the competition. First Runner-up went to Miss Georgetown represented by Alinda Blucher who copped the Best Interview category. Miss North Union Shadeen Charles had to settle for the 2nd runner-up position. The other contestants in the competition were Miss Orange Hill Michelle May and Miss South Rivers Melissa Audain.
Princess Queen
by Hans King Princess Monique is well on the way to repeating a double in the calypso arena after retaining the Queen of Calypso crown last Saturday. Seven females: Lady D, Pat Ralph, Joy-C, Little Bit, Fatty Dan, Kahalia and Ranking Bash came out in their best form to try to take the title from Princess Monique. The task however was a daunting one but not for want of effort by the others. After all had sung, the judges give the third spot to Joy-C and the second position to Fatty Dan, both former Queens of Calypso. Princess Monique however was the queen of the pack retaining her crown with her renditions Fifteen Talking Heads, which she did in the first round and Political Commentary Unwanted in the second. Princess Monique’s next big task now lies before her as she awaits the battle of the National Calypso finals Sunday July 4, Dimanche Gras at Victoria Park.
East St. George Carnival
by Zhinga Greaves Calypsonian Kijahgani and beauty contestant Daniella Baynes came out tops last weekend as the East St. George Carnival kicked off at Club Marcomay. Baynes representing the village of Brighton outshone her seven competitors to cop the Miss East St. George title and in the process won the Best Interview category. First runner-up was Shernelle Byron Miss Fairhall; Alisha Williams Miss glen was 2nd runner-up, she also won the Best Talent award. The miss photogenic award went to Alana john, best evening wear to Malone gardener, she was adjudged most courteous. Best Swimwear went to Marika Haynes Miss Calliaqua. The other contestants in the show were Melissa Edwards, and Abigail Sterling. Meanwhile, Kijahgani walked away with the Calypso Monarch title. Second was Kalijah aka Kahalia Beache. GC, last year’s calypso monarch had to settle for the third position. The queen and calypso show was to be followed by the j’ouvert street party, which unfortunately was cancelled due to the failure of the music truck to show up. East St. George carnival action climaxed Sunday with a street jump-up.
Culture Support
by Rochelle Baptiste The National Lotteries Authority is continuing to show their support to the cultural development of this country. Earlier today Sales and Marketing Manager Kumar Persaud presented representatives of the ten Mas bands with a cheque each of $1,000. Persaud described the initiative as very special, which he says will assist the bands with their pre-expenses before their productions are sold. He said it is also a way of promoting the National Lottery’s Set for Life Game, which is slated to come off later this month. Chairman of the Carnival Mas Bands Association Hugh Ragguette in thanking the National Lottery for its contribution praised the Mas tents for the quality work they have been producing over the years. Some of the representatives who received cheques on behalf of their Mas Tents gave their appreciation to the National Lottery and call for more support from the business community. The Mas Tents who received cheques are: Dragons Cultural Organisation; Beautex International; SVG Players International; Blondie Bird and Friends; High Voltage; Mirage Production; Wizards Mas Camp; Nelson Bloc, and Owen Ralph & The Professionals. Meanwhile, persons Looking for a souvenir of Vincy Mas can now purchase a handy bag available at the various outlets of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC). Chairman of the CDC Dennis Ambrose presented the bright colored bags at today’s handing over ceremony of cheques to the various Mas tents. Ambrose said the bags, which come in two sizes, portrays the various elements of Vincy Mas, which includes steel band and Mas. He said the cost of the hand bags have been subsidized as the CDC is hoping to send the carnival message far and wide.
Queen Victoria
by Sheron Garraway Carnival action in Marriaqua climaxed Saturday night with the big street jump up. Preceding that however, was the queen show and calypso competition, which saw the village of Carriere claiming both the King and Queen titles. Residents of Marriaqua celebrated with their newly crowned royal beauty Queen Victoria Dowers Miss Petroglyphs as the heat in P’tani Mas came to a boiling point. Showing why she was adjudged Miss Congeniality, Queen Victoria congratulated her fellow contestants before accepting the crown from the former queen Deon Paul. Overcome with emotion, the beauty who is hoping to represent the area at the Miss SVG pageant next year also captured Best Swimwear, Interview and Evening Wear. 1st runner-up was Ronique Dowers Miss Married Waters, and 2nd Debra Samuel Miss Montreal Gardens, who also won the Best Talent title. The other contestants were Iesah Horne who also got Miss Photogenic and Cordella Baptiste. Calypso King Selwyn ‘Ginny’ Delplesche won the title for the 2nd year in a row. Sachy was 2nd while Exile and Misty tied for 3rd.
Culture Tour
by Rochelle Baptiste Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is showing that he is not all about politics but is in tune with the culture of this country. Last evening Dr. Gonsalves accompanied by his Press Secretary Glen Jackson and members of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) paid a special visit to several Mas tents that will be competing for top honors come next month. His first stop was at the Owen Ralph and the Professionals Mas tent where he took the opportunity to chat with the Mas producers about how things were shaping up for the season. He was also given first hand experience on how to design and produce a costume. The other tents he visited were Dragons, Blondie Bird and Friends, High Voltage, and Nelson Bloc. At Nelson Bloc Dr. Gonsalves was the first to try on the costume made for Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste who will be playing with the Mas camp this year.
Miss SVG 2004
by Zhinga Greaves In a show that proved difficult to call right down to the very end, Javorne Williams, Miss Mariners Inn/Empire Cigarettes who did not win outright in any of the judged categories, surprised the crowd and took home the Miss SVG 2004 crown. Giving consistently good performances in all of the judged categories, which included Talent, Interview, Swimwear, and Evening Wear, Williams was however adjudged the contestant who is most Community Spirited. 1st Runner-up was Miss Set For Life Deon Paul, who won Best Swim Wear. 2nd Runner-up was Janelle Allen, Miss Roy’s Inn, who won Best Interview and Miss Congeniality. Andrea Antrobus, though failing to secure a position in the contest pleased the crowd with her talent in which she played a medley of songs on the pan. The performance secured her the Best Talent. She also won the Best Evening Wear. The Miss Photogenic award went to Nyasha Holder. The other participants in the pageant were Lisa Joseph, Keisha Bacchus and Ayiesha King.
P’tani Mas
by Jennifer Richardson Carnival activities in the Marriaqua Valley got off to a rocking start last weekend with the grand launch at the Marriaqua Community Centre. It got off to a late start but Carnival was definitely in the air as a large crowd gathered to witness the launch of P’tani Mas. The launch received the blessing and support of Parliamentary Representative for the area Girlyn Miguel, who called on revelers to among other things keep P’tani Mas clean. Congratulations were in order for some people, including President of Marido Barbara Bacchus and her group for bringing Mas back to the valley, then the declaration that P’tani Mas was duly launched. Backed by the sounds of the band Rage, calypsonians give the audience samples of what is to come over the next two weeks with some solid renditions and some designed to keep your heart pumping throughout the season. The P’tani Mas Queen Show features six young ladies who appeared at the launch. The first big show for P’tani Mas takes place on June 4 with the Queen Show and Calypso Finals. J’ouvert follows on June 5 from 3am to 10am, and Kiddies Carnival from 12pm to 4pm. The curtains come down on P’tani Mas with the street jump up from 4:30pm to 10pm also on Saturday June 5.
Carnival Launch
by Jennifer Richardson Thousands of Carnival lovers flocked the Chamber of Industry and Commerce car park Saturday as Vincy Mas 2004 launched off in grand style. All indications are that Saturday’s launch delivered on its promise of more fun, more flair more fantasy. The day long affair featured a diverse array of activities and presentations, which saw hundreds turning up to sample the day time activities designed to attract the entire family. One of the highlights was the Best New Song Competition, which included the traditional calypso category, and for the first time, a soca category. The Best New Calypso was won by Lexi; Brother Ebony unable to hold on to the title for the second time around had to settle for the second position. Joy-C came in third. Lady-D was the first ever winner of the Best New Soca; second was Josiah; Stinga Nettle came in third. Tributes were also paid to two notable deceased calypsonians, Reginald “The Professor” Padmore, OBE, and Lloyd “Lord Hawke” Providence. The Professor was a three-time winner of the Calypso King title in 1981, 1982, 1984, and was one of the most sought after MC’s for calypso shows with his biting humor and hilarious antics. Lord Hawke was the first documented Road March King, and the first to win a hattrick of titles, doing so in 1971 – 1973. Hawke also took the Calypso Monarchy in 1976. The launch also featured appearances by the Miss SVG 2004 contestants, and rural Carnival queen contestants. This country’s representative to the Miss Universe 2004 Pageant, Miss SVG and Carival 2002 LaFerne Fraser, also made an appearance. Taiwanese fashion also featured at the launch with models from the Image Modeling Agency showing of what Taiwan has to offer. The cultural package included presentations by the Sandy Bay Quadrille Dancers, the CW Prescod Primary School Drummers, the Creation Culture Club dancers, Roses Crew, and others. Hundreds of revellers also jumped to the Hitz FM sound truck around Kingstown as part of the day of festivities. The next item on the calendar of activities for the Carnival Development Corporation is the Miss SVG pageant scheduled for May 29, followed by Soca Swing, a joint-production with Hitz FM showcasing Vincentian Soca artistes on May 30. Meanwhile, Minister of Culture René Baptiste urged Vincentians to keep the Carnival clean and violence free. She noted that her ministry is continuing its promotions of Vincy Mas 2004 and reiterated her call for an end to the piracy of the work of local artistes. She indicated that if pirates don’t heed the warning then the last resort would be to seize illegal material. Baptiste also urged Vincentians to be kind to visitors and to patronize the various activities of Vincy Mas 2004.
No Pirates
by Keisha Phillips The Ministry of Culture and the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) will be seeking Police assistance in cracking down on persons who pirate the music of local recording artistes. Minister of Culture René Baptiste yesterday issued the warning to some ten unnamed pirate establishments located in and around Kingstown. Her warning comes as local recording artistes prepare to release their music for Vincy Mas 2004, which will be launched tomorrow. She says piracy is illegal and calls on persons to desist from this practice. Baptiste also appealed to deejays at radio stations and studio owners to stop making copies for the pirates. She further urged the recording artistes to attend and participate in a session called “cultural industries” that is being organized by the Small Enterprise Development Unit (SEDU) and the Ministry of Culture. She says government alone cannot effect the copyright laws, and stresses the importance of the establishment of a recording industry association here to push and protect the work of recording artistes under the Copyright Act 2003.
Beautex Fantasy
by Jennifer Richardson Beautex International Mas band has announced a ten section presentation called “Gateway to my fantasy”. The sections are Cosmopolitan Spirit, Go for Gold, No Fears, Breaking Barriers, African Influence, Discoveries, Glamorous Divas, Explorers, Let’s go, and Features of Tomorrow. The designs will be showcased at various business houses throughout Kingstown on May 7, featuring live models. The launching of the band takes place on May 8 at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce car park.
Theater Casts
by Zhinga Greaves The Calypso Theater tent will be presenting a cast of 15 calypsonians and soca artists for the 2004 calypso season. The cast would be led by former Calypso Monarch Vibrating Scakes and Toiler. The others are the former Calypso King of Anguilla, Sunbeam, three-time Extempore King of Trinidad, Sheldon John, and the reigning Marriaqua Monarch, Ginny. Other members are former Windward King, Struggler, Singing Cindy, Da Vincy, Bear-ee, Sweet Sixteen, Snuffy, Slim-G, Barks, Mighty Bluff, King Hector and Why. The tent will be holding a week of activities starting on Sunday May 16 with an open air concert in Kingstown. The Calypso Theater will be celebrating 24 years of existence this year, making it the oldest calypso tent in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Dragon Money
by Sheron Garraway Hitz FM Deuce Morning Radio Heineken Dragons Cultural Organisation is now more financially equipped to boost their Mas tent, thanks to a $5,000 donation from Courts St. Vincent Ltd. Expressing gratitude for the contribution was Dragons Chairman Douggie “Nose” Joseph, who promised masqueraders more for the festival. Courts representative Elwin Phillips says the company is always willing to assist in the development of the national festival. The Dragons Cultural Organisation Mas presentation for this year, Fanfare, will be launched in Kingstown this Sunday. They will be celebrating their 40th anniversary next year.
Song Support
by Keisha Phillips President of the Calypsonians Association Hassan Kennedy has spoken out against “foreign interests” that, according to him, threaten to destroy the calypso art form. Kennedy, who addressed a Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) press conference yesterday at the Victoria Park, noted that the CDC and its components do not always get what they want, but they continue to collaborate to produce a successful Carnival festival. Kennedy says calypso lovers are in for a treat this year because the calypsoes produced so far are of a high standard. He says a schedule for the opening of calypso tents will be released soon. Meanwhile, ten finalists have been named for the Best New Song competition slated to come off on May 8. The finalists in the calypso category are Bridgette “Joy C” Creese, Sunny “Sunny Banks” Young, Aloma “Fatty Dan” Cadougan, George “Jah Burke” Nedd, and Alexis “Lexi” Joseph. Glenroy “Sulle” Caesar is the reserve. Denise “Lady D” Stephens, Kerita “Young Laylee” Westfield, Adolph "I-Come” Miller, Josiah Ash, and Alpha “Stinga Nettle” Allick will compete in the Soca category, with Nigel “Mighty Bro” Lyttle as the reserve. The Best New Song competition will form part of the official launch of Vincy Carnival at the Chamber of Commerce Car Park in Kingstown on May 8.
All Lies
by Keisha Phillips The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) today denounced what it says are lies being publicized by a local radio station regarding the staging of the private show, Insomnia, during Carnival. CDC Chairman Dennis Ambrose lashed out at Hot 97.1 FM and some of its deejays at a press conference this morning as he tried to “correct some misinformation” on the issue. He says that the CDC has been meeting with private promoters who wish to host activities during the Carnival season, and pointed to the CDC Act No. 52, Section 6, that gives the corporation the authority to regulate such activities during the period. Ambrose reiterated that the CDC has no intention to control neither the private sector nor the components of Carnival. He says instead, the CDC embraces partnership with the private sector in developing the national festival and remains cognizant of its importance to the country’s economy. He further explained that the CDC is simply requesting that private promoters do not marginalize its program of events by “mirror-image” shows, and stressed that the CDC has told the host of Insomnia that the activity is similar to the CDC’s Soca Monarch and comes on the eve of this show. Ambrose strengthened the CDC’s argument by stating that Insomnia features the same artistes, both local and regional, who participate in the International Soca Monarch Show, which comes less than twelve hours later. He says this shows much disregard and disrespect for the CDC and its components, adding that the CDC should not be facing such challenges.
No Pan
by Keisha Phillips The Youlou Pan movement (YPM) has thrown its full support behind the CDC’s decision to allow the organizers of Insomnia to host that show on the night of Junior Carnival. YPM President Douggie “Nose” Joseph says Carnival is too important to allow any one organisation or group to hijack it. Joseph considers Hot FM to be anti-pan and says this adds to the YPM’s support of the CDC. He condemned the radio station’s management and staff, calling them selfish. But he also warns that if the CDC falls to their pressure there’ll be no pan for Vincy Mas 2004.
ON Tour
by Zhinga Greaves The On Tour Calypso Tent is getting ready to begin its tent season and has announced a launch date for May 14. Its cast for 2004 includes Lady D, Gams, Singing Shaunelle, Abijah, Azarah, Freedom Fighter, I-Reality, Jeremiah, Gringo, Pat Ralph, Ranking Bash and Ipa. GC, the monarch for East St. George is also included in the cast. The reserves are D-Whip and Nigel Lyttle.
Caribbean Queen
by Rochelle Baptiste St. Vincent and the Grenadines is among seven other Caribbean countries that have confirmed participation in the 43rd annual Jaycees Caribbean Queen Show, slated to take place in Antigua on July 30. The other countries that have so far given confirmation are the Dominican Republic, St. Kitts/Nevis, Grenada, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica and Puerto Rico. Local chairperson of the Beauty Shows Committee Cheryl Rodriguez this country’s representative to the pageant is expected to be Miss SVG 2004, providing she does not go on to win the Miss Carival show. She says in that case the 1st runner-up will be next choice. According to the pageant committee’s Public Relations Officer in Antigua Allan Williams, this year promises to be a show with a difference, providing a kaleidoscope of color, pageantry, beauty and intelligence emanating from the contestants.
No Clash
by Sheron Garraway President of Pan Kai Mas, Hugh Ragguette is sounding the group’s solidarity with the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) initiative to ensure that Vincy Mas is successful. Ragguette noted that it is crucial that other entertainment events do not clash with CDC shows and Pan Kai Mas will defend their initiative to regulate activities, which compete with the national festival. Coordinator of Rural Carnival, Sally-Ann Cuffy noted that there a 9 areas taking part in the festivities. She ensured that they are working on lifting the quality and making sure that they begin on time. Rural Carnival will be launched in East St George on May 21 at the Calliaqua Culture Pot.
Carnival Cards
by Sheron Garraway The Republic of China on Taiwan is extending its assistance to this country’s premiere festival, Vincy Mas. Ambassador Elizabeth Chu yesterday handed over two cheques for $2,000 each – one to the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) and the other to the Calypsonians Association. She noted that this is one of many donations to be made to the festival. Ambassador Chu also announced that the Taiwanese trade show, which runs from June 17 – 23, will also tie in with Vincy Mas. Ambassador Chu has also funded the printing cost of this year’s Vincy Mas postal cards, which were designed by Sean Young and Michael Ollivierre. The three cards, which depict the theme of this year’s festival – “More flair, more fun, more fantasy” – are now available to Vincentians and visitors. Minister of Tourism & Culture, René Baptiste, welcomed the initiative by the republic of china on Taiwan and noted that this type of cooperation makes programs work. CDC Chairman Dennis Ambrose says the cards are not only attractive, but also very informative. Vincy Mas runs from the May 8 – July 6. Contestants Named
by Sheron Garraway The eight young ladies who will contest the Miss SVG Pageant on May 29 were formally introduced to the press and Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste today at Young Island. The contestants are Janelle Allen, Nyasha Holder and Lisa Joseph of Arnos Vale, Andrea Antrobus of Richmond Hill, Keisha Bacchus of Rose Cottage, Ayiesha King of Paul’s Avenue, Deon Paul of Richland Park, and Javorne Williams of Enhams.
East St. George Plans
by Rochelle Baptiste With Vincy Mas just months away, the East St. George Carnival Committee is gearing up for its part of the festival. In an interview with svgbc.com, President of the committee, Clemroy “Bert” François says the East St. George Carnival this year will take the form of last year’s event, which will feature a calypso and queen show, street jump up and j’ouvert. Francois says at this point they are focusing on getting sponsors for the various events and in this approach they are presenting their major sponsors, including Hitz FM, with a report and financial statement of last year’s events. He says they are also seeking eligible young ladies to enter the pageant, which will be staged on June 11 at a venue to be decided upon. In relation to the calypso show, François says they are looking for six calypsonians from the East St. George Constituency to come up against each other in the event, which is scheduled for the same night as the queen show.
Carival 6 by Rochelle Baptiste Six countries have so far confirmed their participation in this year’s Miss Carival pageant scheduled for Friday July 2. Speaking earlier this week, Chairperson of Beauty Shows Cheryl Rodriguez, said these countries include Barbados, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and for the first time Colombia and Curacao. Rodriguez however said she has been given verbal confirmation of participation by the other countries including Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Guyana, Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and the British Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, Rodriguez said final preparations are being made to have former Miss SVG and Miss Carival LaFern Fraser participate in Miss Universe 2004 scheduled for June 1 in Ecuador. Rodriguez said a committee is currently working feverishly to secure the franchise fees for Fraser and funds for her wardrobe. Fraser is expected to be in Ecuador by the middle of May to prepare herself for the pageant.
Quality Calypso by Rochelle Baptiste Newly elected President of the Calypsonians Association, Hassan Kennedy, is promising patrons quality kaiso this year. Speaking this week Kennedy said the organisation is working hard to get calypsonians produce their music much earlier this year so that the various radio stations could start playing their music, building up the tempo for Carival. Kennedy said this year they will also focus more on discipline, not only in the tents, but calypsonians’ behavior in public life. He says in this light they have already set up a disciplinary committee headed by Glenroy “Sulle” Caesar. The tents session for calypsonians this year will be held at the Russell’s Cinema. The six tents that will be producing calypsonians are Graduates, Stars, Calypso Theatre, Dynamites New York, On Tour and North South Leeward Stars. The semifinals for the calypso show will take place on June 25 with the finals on June 4.
No Competition
by Rochelle Baptiste Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) Dennis Ambrose says the CDC will not tolerate any competition this year from private organizers for sponsorship and shows that clashes with their scheduled events. Addressing the press conference on Monday Ambrose says while he welcomes new ideas from the private sector to boost the spirit of carnival there are persons who often put on shows and seek the same sponsorship as the CDC, which boycotts what they are trying to achieve. The CDC chairman says persons who are involved in such action will need to be much more nationalistic and more sensitive to the efforts of the CDC and its components and work out their plans well ahead of time with the CDC. Ambrose says this year the CDC will review their policy in that the mandate, which is vested in them should be carried out with as little infringement as possible.
Carnival Promotion
by Rochelle Baptiste Promotion for Vincy Mas 2004 will kick into high gear on the international scene later this month. Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste this week expressed delight with the early preparations for the festival. Baptiste says in the coming weeks a number of advertisements will be broadcasted in Canada, all geared towards promoting Vincy Mas 2004 and St. Vincent and the Grenadines as the ultimate tourist destination. Baptiste says currently negotiations are taking place with officials in the United States to buy some promotional spots using the various mediums there. Meanwhile, Baptiste says as a way of promoting calypso music for the four seasons she has managed to source spots for local artistes to perform short stints at a leading Canadian hotel called Taboo. She says former Junior Soca Monarch Neisha will be first to leave for Canada followed by The Harmonites who will leave these shores in June. Baptiste says all these opportunities should be used not only to make a buck but for the artistes to promote themselves and their country.
Carnival Plans
by Rochelle Baptiste “More Fun, More Flair, More Fantasy” is the theme for Vincy Mas this year. Speaking at the first press conference of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) for the year, Chairman Dennis Ambrose says the theme is in keeping with all the innovations they will be adding to the various events. Outlining the program for this year’s festival, Ambrose says Carnival will officially kick off on Saturday May 8 with the launch at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce car park and culminate on Tuesday July 6 with Mardi Gras. He says Clash of the Bands show will be back on the program of events after being absent for a number of years. Ambrose is promising patrons at the various CDC Carnival events their monies worth and noted measures are being put in place to have all shows start and finish on time. He also notes that in keeping with this year’s theme there will be no room for bad conduct and ugly behavior.
Eight Chosen by Rochelle Baptiste Eight young women are now well into training for the Miss SVG 2004 Pageant, which would feature several innovations this year. The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) says that for the first time ever, the winner of this prestigious pageant would receive a scholarship, once she has the necessary entry requirements to attend a university. Miss SVG 2004 would be the first official show produced by the CDC for Vincy Mas 2004 and is slated for Saturday May 29 at the Victoria Park. A press conference is scheduled for next week where the names of the contestants for the pageant are expected to be announced.
Miss West St. George
by Rochelle Baptiste After a six-year absence, the organizers of the Miss West St. George Beauty Pageant are making a come-back this year and are promising that it will be produced at a higher standard. So says one of the organizers of the pageant, Aldine Browne. In an interview with svgbc.com, Browne says at the moment a committee of five is working hard behind the scenes to get everything in place for the pageant, which is scheduled for June. She says the committee will be meeting this weekend to get updates from all the members who were given specific tasks to perform in ensuring the pageant comes off. Browne says four young ladies have already come forward and the committee is also scouting for more young beauties who are interested in contesting the pageant. The coordinator says the pageant will be held under the theme, “Fight against crime, drugs and violence”. The winner of this year’s pageant will receive a number of prizes, including an opportunity to enter the Miss SVG Pageant 2005.
More Kaiso
by Rochelle Baptiste Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste wants to hear calypso music for the four seasons. Baptiste, who addressed the opening of a junior calypso symposium earlier this week, told the gathering that calypsonians and musicians need to constantly produce and compose songs even before and after the Carnival period. She gave the assurance that there is a future for the art form if persons are willing to take the discipline along with it. This week’s symposium was organized by the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) as part of continuing efforts to improve the quality of junior calypso presentations for this year’s calypso season and beyond.
Junior Development
by Keisha Phillips Junior calypsonians here have been advised of the need to develop the calypso art form. The advice comes from head of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), Arlene Keane-Browne, and president of the Calypsonians Association, Hassan Kennedy, who addressed the opening of today’s junior calypso symposium. Stressing the importance of calypso, Keane-Browne told the young calypsonians that it is important that in developing the art form they start with the young minds, since the older calypsonians may have fallen into bad habits that may be difficult to change. Kennedy, who expressed similar sentiments, urged the youngsters to develop themselves as they work towards developing the art form because it is their culture. He noted the opportunities for the advancement of calypso today are countless and urged the junior calypsonians to seize the moment to take the art form to higher levels. The NCF and the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) organized the symposium as part of continuing efforts to improve the quality of junior calypso presentations for this year’s calypso season and beyond. It was aimed at improving the standard of calypso compositions at the junior level, enhance the quality of stage and vocal performance in the junior calypso competition and encourage the teaching of calypso composition at the classroom level.
Mud ‘n Kolors
by Jennifer Richardson RJR is preparing to hit the road with more in 2004. The top j’ouvert band for the last seven years is this year presenting Mud ‘n Kolors. PRO of RJR Stephen Huggins says the new mud section will allow the more adventurous patrons the opportunity to explore the mud concept, while allowing those with a preference for the traditional color section to choose from either red or yellow body paint. Huggins says this is the first time that a local j’ouvert band of this size will be offering mud as a decoration for the body. He says the mud is used traditionally in j’ouvert in Trinidad and Tobago and is especially designed and refined for use on the body.
Carnival Promotion
by Zhinga Greaves Commercials promoting Vincy Mas throughout the region have already begun. Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste made the announcement recently and also noted that preparations are in the pipeline to promote the festival beyond the region. Baptiste also gave kudos to the Carnival Development Corporation and said she is pleased with the progress of their plans for this year’s festival. She was speaking at the launch of the Carnival poster for 2004, the new tourism website, www.stvincent.com.vc, and a book on dance.
New Tune
by Sheron Garraway Training seminars, fundraisers and cultural activities are just some of the issues on the agenda of the newly elected National Calypsonians Association. This month, the association will be paying courtesy calls on several government ministries and business houses, and will be meeting with tent leaders on Wednesday at the Victoria from 5pm. They hope to tackle issues such as the quality of calypsoes, tent structure and the 2004 calypso season.
Positive Notes
by Rochelle Baptiste Persons in the music industry here are being asked to use the media more positively to promote themselves and their music rather than to pull down each other. The words of advice came from Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation Dennis Ambrose who was addressing a general meeting of the National Calypsonians Association recently. Ambrose said this kind of behavior must be stamped out as the time for it is long gone. Meanwhile, Minister of Culture René Baptiste in voicing her own concerns about the ongoing problems affecting the music industry, said musicians, especially those with the Calypsonians Association, need to put aside their prejudice and biases and bring forward the things, which will lead towards the growth of their organisation.
Better Exposure
by Rochelle Baptiste Local Artistes of all genres could look forward to a great 2004 according to Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste, who says that her ministry has great plans ahead for these artistes, who will get more exposure, training and overseas performance opportunities. Addressing the Annual General Meeting of the Calypsonians Association last weekend, Baptiste said she has recently been asked to look into the possibility of having local artistes perform at hotels in Canada, Los Angeles and the luxury tourism resort on Canouan. Baptiste said in all these cases the foundation for artistes to sell themselves is being laid. The Culture minister however said that there are a number of artistes who do not realize that their music, which includes calypso, soca and ragga soca is new to the people that engage and hire them, and must meet the required standard.
Professionalism Now
by Rochelle Baptiste Faced with much controversy the National Calypsonians Association now has a new executive charged with the responsibility of cleaning up the organisation and focusing on its plans for the next year. The nine-member executive headed by Carlos “Hassan” Kennedy was elected over the weekend at the association’s Annual General Meeting held at the Peace Memorial Hall. Kennedy, who has been performing the duties of interim president since August last year, is said to have overwhelmingly received the nod for the top post from the rest of his colleagues. He will be assisted by former national calypso monarch Kenneth “Vibrating Scakes” Alleyne as vice president. The newly elected executive will be focusing on building and strengthening the calypso tents across the country in an effort to improve the quality of calypsoes. Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste is calling on calypso tents to fix the ongoing problems, which are hampering their development. Baptiste said the various tents need to get back to past standards. The Culture minister says there is also the need to strike a desirable balance to ensure professionalism is not just a word spoken and shouted, but are actions which are indicative and evident. Baptiste said she hopes that every effort would be made to ensure that the association works out its problems and regain respect and confidence from the general public. She also revealed that the Copyright Act is now in place and is being phased in. She expressed great satisfaction with the quality of carnival music produced last year. Baptiste said she has a very high premium on the performing arts and artistes, and must congratulate the work of the association for the measures they took to bring a number of these artistes up to the standard they displayed in their music last year. Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) Dennis Ambrose challenged the association to get rid of the mounting number of controversies that it has been faced with over the years. Ambrose told the gathering that it is because of these controversies that many of the shows they organize never receive any meaningful sponsorship and leaves the burden on the CDC. Ambrose told them that it is very important that calypsonians respect the judges and the CDC. He noted that the CDC has no influence on the judges’ decisions but noted it is always final.
First Out
by Sheron Garraway Mas band Blondie Bird & Friends is inviting the public to play with them for Vincy Mas 2004. Tent leader Elroy “Blondie Bird” Boyd says they will be launching at the Anglican School Annex yard on February 1 and all are invited to learn about history while having fun. He noted that the theme “Mexica” is the indigenous name of Mexico and the costumes will be based around this context. Blondie Bird & Friends placed 3rd in the Band of the Year competition in 2003, and is also celebrating its 10th anniversary.
Finally Paid
by Hans King Mas bands, especially winners Digicel Hitz FM Coca Cola Nelson Bloc were in jubilant mood as they were finally able to collect their winnings for Band of the Year and the Uptown competitions yesterday. More than one month after the judging of the competitions, the way was cleared for the distribution of the prizes after an injunction granted to mas band Mirage Productions, preventing the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) from distributing the prizes was discharged on July 31. Mirage Productions however asked High Court judge Justice Brian Alleyne, who granted the injunction, to have it discharged, as the band did not want to prevent other mas bands from collecting their prizes. Mirage, who placed 5th in the Band of the Year competition and 4th in the Uptown judging however remains dissatisfied with certain aspects of the judging and will be taking the substantive matter forward. Meanwhile, speaking at the presentation ceremony CDC chairman Dennis Ambrose thanked mas bands for their patience during the court proceedings and said he hopes it would not be repeated. Ambrose said hopes that mas bands would give of their best in 2004. Chairman of Pan-Kai-Mas Hugh Ragguette said attempts were made to introduce rules and regulations for mas bands in 2003 but it was not done in time. He said he hopes this can begin as early as October this year and proposals will be circulated in September. The CDC Act makes provision for the making of rules to govern pan, calypso and mas competitions. If all goes well the CDC is hoping that Vincy Mas 2004 will fit their new slogan “More fun, more flare, and more fantasy”.
Injunction
Discharged
by Hans King The injunction granted by High Court judge Justice Brian Alleyne preventing the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) from distributing the prizes for Band of the Year has been discharged. According to CDC Chairman Dennis Ambrose the judge discharged the case in its entirety this morning. But according to lawyer for Lennox “Becks” Gonsalves, Bertram Commissiong, Gonsalves volunteered to have the injunction discharged since it was never his intention to deprive mas men of their monies. Mirage was granted the injunction on July 18 2003, after placing 5th in the Band of the Year judging at the Victoria Park and 4th in the Uptown judging. The CDC held its prize-giving ceremony on Saturday July 19 2003, but the Band of the Year prizes could not be distributed due to the injunction. The discharge of the injunction now clears the way for the prizes to be distributed. But according to Commissiong the substantive case against the CDC in which Gonsalves charges that he was unfairly treated during the judging of the Band of the Year at Victoria Park will go on.
Regal Representation
by Jennifer Richardson This country is to be represented in a number of upcoming shows. First runner-up in the Miss SVG 2003 pageant, Kerina Shortte left the state this morning for Antigua where she will represent this country in the Antigua Jaycees Caribbean Queen Show Saturday. Shortte is being accompanied by chaperone June Huggins. Another contestant in the Miss SVG pageant Maurissa Bailey leaves the state tomorrow for Carriacou, accompanied by her chaperone Juanita Phillips. She will participate in the Miss Aquaval Queen Show in Carriacou also on Saturday. Josanne Simper 2nd runner-up in the Miss SVG show will be hoping to bring home the title when she competes in the Queen of the Caribbean Pageant to be held in Dominica and Guadeloupe from August 23. Josanne will be accompanied by her chaperone Laetica Clarke. Reigning Queen of Calypso and National Calypso Monarch Monique “Princess Monique” Hector leaves the state tomorrow to participate in the Caribbean Calypso Monarch show in Antigua on August 4. She is being accompanied by Cheryl Johnson.
Mas
Madness
by Hans King Vincy Mas 2003 is over but the bacchanal continues. Earlier today Mirage Productions was granted an injunction by High Court judge Justice Brian Alleyne preventing the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) from distributing the prizes for this year’s judging of the Parade of the Bands competition held at the Victoria Park and uptown Kingstown. The injunction prevents CDC from distributing the prizes for both competitions held on Tuesday July 8th, Mardi Gras, until after the hearing of an application to continue the injunction on Friday July 25th. The order from the judge concludes with a penal notice, which warns that if the CDC, whether by its servants or agents disobey the order, it or they will be liable to process of execution for the purpose of compelling to do the same. The CDC prize giving ceremony is slated for tomorrow and the prizes for the Band of the Year and Uptown competitions are among those that are down to be distributed. Lawyer Betram Commissiong QC appeared before the judge on behalf of the claimant listed as Lennox 'Becks' Gonsalves, trading as DCP Studios and Mirage Productions. Mirage placed 5th in the judging at the Victoria Park and 4th in the Uptown competition for the Band of the Year. Meanwhile CDC chairman Dennis Ambrose told svgbc.com that tomorrow’s prize giving ceremony will proceed but the two competitions listed in the injunction will be withheld until the matter is dealt with.
Queen Returns
by Hans King Miss
SVG and Miss Carival 2003 Shivern Peters is now back on home soil in the
Grenadine island of Bequia. Peters who walked away with the coveted title of
Miss Carival last Friday returned to Bequia amidst hugs and cheers from
relatives and friends including her mother and fellow Bequia contestant in the
Miss SVG pageant Orissa Malcolm, earlier today. The 18 year-old Bequia resident
expressed pride in being the first person from the island to have won both
titles. She also talked about her plans to further her studies in Electrical
Engineering as well as to participate in the Miss Universe pageant. Peters was
especially thankful to Vinnette Frederick for her assistance with her talent.
Overall she is proud that she was able to prove herself to both her supporters
and her critics. Her mother, who was on hand to greet her, also expressed pride
in Peters and promised to keep her grounded, giving the pressures of the Miss
SVG and Miss Carival pageants. The Bequia resident who moved her way from tomboy
to national queen then Miss Carival is expected to settle back into her home
town where she hopefully can recovery from the rigors and pressures of
pageantry.
100% Vincy
by Rochelle Baptiste Contrary to belief that the calypso monarchy was given to an outsider, the woman who is wearing the crown, Princess Monique says she is 100% Vincy. Speaking to svgbc.com Princess Monique said although she is presently residing in Trinidad her heart and home is in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. She also attributed her
success to being in the company of several veterans in the calypso business. She
give much thanks and appreciation to God and former Queen of Calypso and
national monarch, Lady Joy-C for her victory.
Carnival Review
by Zhinga Greaves Vincy Mas 2003 continues to get good reviews by players in the arena. Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) Dennis Ambrose has added his voice to those expressing satisfaction with this year’s festival. In an interview with svgbc.com yesterday, Ambrose expressed particular satisfaction with the timely start of Carnival shows and is hoping to maintain this next year. In
anticipation of Carnival 2004, Ambrose also urged the players within the various
components to work in tandem with the CDC in an effort to continue to improve
the Carnival product.
Carnival Crime
by Jennifer Richardson Commissioner of Police William Harry is reporting a reasonably quiet Carnival season throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but particularly so in Kingstown. According to the commissioner the dramatic decrease in the incidents of crime can be attributed to the increase presence of Police on the streets and cooperation from the general public. Generally speaking he noted that incidents
of theft was the main sore point for the Police.
Carnival Good
by Zhinga Greaves President
of Pan-Kai-Mas Hugh Ragguette feels the quality of pan, calypso and mas
components of Carnival were indeed bigger, better and brighter than in previous
years but says there are still improvements to be made. In an interview with
svgbc.com today Ragguette had high praise for the pan component noting that it
improved 100% in quality and in quantity. Ragguette took issue with the length
of the Dimanche Gras show and says never again should the show be allowed to go
for that length of time. He says the Mardi Gras show must also be examined and
changes made by the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) and the bandleaders.
Ragguette stressed the need for all stakeholders in the Carnival arena to work
together with a view to improving at all levels for Carnival 2004.
Winners Row
by Rochelle Baptiste Princess
Monique has added another title to her name; the reigning Queen of Calypso is
now also wearing the crown of National Calypso Monarch of 2003. On Sunday night
the petite young lady urged leaders of the Caribbean to take the bold step to
unify with her song “Caribbean Integration”. She supported this with words
of warning in her second song “The New Colonizers”. Last year’s monarch,
Abijah, took the second spot with “Black know what is pain” and “Ah ready
to vote”. Former National Monarch and Queen of Calypso Joy C, the first lady
to do the double, took third. She presented “Strong like ah wall” and
“Tribute to Lokeisha”. Ipa followed at fourth. The other finalists, Brother
Ebony, Jposiah, Exposer, Patches, and former monarchs Pat Ralph, Man Age, and
Sulle. Cable & Wireless Starlift Steel Orchestra dominated the senior
Panorama finals. Second was Sion Hill Euphonium; Rhythmix third; Elite Steel
Orchestra took the cellar position. The inordinately long show, which went up to
6:30am, was plagued by torrential rain due to a tropical wave in the area. King
and Queen of the bands went to Mirage Productions’ Feather Kingdom. Michael
Ollivierre with “Epcoatl – The Seashell Serpent” took a hattrick, while
Rebecca, daughter of band leader Becks Gonsalves, brought home the monarchy with
“Copper Pheasant Queen”. The other kings were Andre Browne –
“Imagination” – Digicel Hitz FM Coca Cola Nelson Bloc 2nd;
Ezzie Roberts – “Hell’s Gate” – Wizards Mas Camp 3rd; while
the queens were Jolene Wynne – “ Gold In All It’s Splendour” – Digicel
Hitz FM Coca Cola Nelson Bloc 2nd; Michele Smith – “Queen of the
Nile” – Heineken Dragons Cultural Organisation 3rd. The Road
March results again put Poorsah on the throne. His “Slingshot” ruled
Victoria Park and the road to put him ahead of newcomer, Hitz FM’s DJ Tarrus
with “Represent” 2nd, and 2003 Soca Monarch Maddzart, who placed
3rd with “Motorcade – Bikers Anthem”.
Carnival Better
by Zhinga Greaves Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) Coordinator of Shows Michael Peters says some aspects of Vincy Mas 2003 were indeed bigger, better and brighter. He had kudos for the quality of mas and said this year again saw an increase in the number of masqueraders taking to the stage for Mardi Gras. Peters also commended the calypsonians and noted that there was a general improvement in the standard of calypsoes this year over last year, and an increase in the number of pan bands. Peters says however that the soca component of Carnival was very disappointing and says masqueraders had a hard time choosing good songs to jump to. Peters says that there is too great a rivalry between mas men and also generally among participants in the various aspects of Carnival. Some of the shows were severely affected by inclement weather among them Dimanche Gras, J’Ouvert and Monday afternoon jump-up. Peters says all persons involved in the shows need to work on their level of participation and strive towards making Vincy Mas the premiere summer festival in the Caribbean.
Nelson Bloc Hattrick The creativity of mas men flooded the streets of Kingstown yesterday, and saw now eight-time champion Digicel Hitz FM Coca Cola Nelson Bloc taking Band of the Year honours with “Retrospect: Blast from the past”. This is Nelson Bloc's second hattrick, taking three consecutive titles also in the 1991-1993 period. Second was SVG Players International with “Dance Caribe”. SVGTV Guinness Blondie Bird and Friends took the third spot with “We playing fuh fun”. Fourth was Heineken Dragons Cultural Organisation with “Royalty – a tribute to Kings and Queens”. Deuce Morning Radio Mirage Productions with “Feather Kingdom” took fifth. Nelson Bloc also got the judges nod in the Up-town judging. Second was Dragons, third Players International, with Mirage placing fourth and Blondie Bird and Friends fifth.
Hitz History
by Richard Mac Leish Hitz FM created radio history by broadcasting live from the Digicel Hottsand Hitz FM sound truck during RJR’s Red Dawn J’Ouvert morning presentation on the streets of Kingstown, and on Mardi Gras, as part of Digicel Hitz FM Coca Cola Nelson Bloc’s street presentation. The broadcasts afforded local listeners and those following Hitz FM’s Soca Swing Carnival programming live on the World Wide Web courtesy CarnivalPower.com the opportunity to sample the street jam experience, integral to Vincy Mas. For Mardi Gras, Nelson Bloc revellers were also able to hear Hottsand’s music from a Dynamic Guys sound truck, which was facilitated by a Hitz FM remote link.
J’Ouvert Ran Red Torrential rain was unable to stop the J’Ouvert action early Monday morning as revellers took to the streets of Kingstown. The streets ran red as RJR, by far the biggest band on the road, dominated the Monday morning jam with music by Hottsand and the Hitz FM Road Crew. In the Individuals, 1st went to “Foul Play” by J’Ouvert Fanatics, who also took 2nd with their presentation “Samsung Blue”. Green Hill Sports and Cultural Club, with “Big Gut Water” also tied for the second position. Fourth place also went to Green Hill with “Bottling Plant”.
Junior Pan
by Rochelle Baptiste Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra is Junior Pan Side of the Year. They beat out seven other competitors with their rendition “ Lokiesha” a tribute to one of their slain colleagues. Taking the trophy for second position was last year’s winner Cable & Wireless Steel Orchestra with their rendition “100% Vincy”. The Union Island Secondary and the Girls High School tied for third position while the two convent schools tied for the fifth spot. First time entrants the CW Prescott and Troumaca primary schools settled for the seventh and eighth position. Delivering brief remarks before the winners were announced Cable & Wireless’ general manager Fred Walcott pledged his company’s continuing support for pan and Junior Panorama.
Follow
The Motorcade Soca sensation Rayon “Maddzart” Primus-Gonsalves put his bike into first gear, and popped a wheelie across the stage at Victoria Park last night in what was one of the most clean and innovative performances to appear before the judges and soca enthusiasts in the big yard. His song “Motorcade – Bikers Anthem” was slowly throttling down the soca highway on the road to the Soca Monarch crown, and on the big night, Maddzart raced away with the prize, taking the chequered flag ahead of newcomer Galanaire and his “Soca Rock” and soca diva Pat Ragguette with her “SVG”. Ragguette and Galanaire tied for second place. Maddzart's performance included Cariballet dancers replete with chequered flags, driven on stage by members of the SVG Bikers Club, as well as fireworks, confetti, and Maddzart, riding on to the stage on a bicycle. Former monarch, Poorsah, was catapulted into fourth place with his popular number “Slingshot”, which was, from radio airplay, the tipped song going into the competition. The fifth place was copped by Alla G, whose “Sweeter Wine” put him into the rankings. Topping off the show was the Invasion band, which featured 2003 T&T Soca Monarch Iwer George, 2003 Road March Fayon Lyons, and former T&T Road March Monarch, Naya George.
SVG Repeats by Richard Mac
Leish Self-proclaimed
tomboy Cheverne Peters hailing from Bequia wrested the 2003 Miss Carival
crown from a field of stiff competition to keep the coveted title here in
SVG. Peters danced and sang her way into the hearts of the judges dressed
as a typical Caribbean “Sweetman”, taking us back from the music of
the old to that of the new, and showing us that sweetness knows no age.
That
performance gave her Best Talent, to add to her Best Evening Gown and Best
Swimsuit sashes. Second was Miss Antigua Barbuda Shermain Jeremy, with Miss
T&T Tivalee Samaroo third.
Queens Bling
by Hans King The Miss Carival contestants have been given the necessary gear to “bling” on Carnival Monday. Earlier today Digicel’s Marketing Manager Kathy Harry presented Miss Trinidad and Tobago Tivalee Samaroo and Miss Barbados Leann Baker with a t-shirt from their Monday band “Bling with Digicel”. Harry said t-shirts will be provided to all the contestants for the Monday band, which will have Hottsand, Hitz FM DJ’s and Invasion from Trinidad and Tobago providing music.
Alla G Streets
by Rochelle Baptiste
With Vincy Mas getting into high gear Clayton James
a.k.a. Alla-G has released a CD with ten tracks for the season. The former band vocalist’s new album entitled Full
Blast was released last Saturday. Some of the tracks include the popular hits
Sweeter Wine, In Yo face, Bring De Gal Dem, Got To Do, Bo Rat, Run Dem and Mash
Up. The productions for the CD were done by the facilities of five studios among
them Sky Studios, JR, Master Room, Hysyanz and Rough Lab. The production of the
album was possible through “Vision International” and his manager Esworth
“Ezzie” Roberts. A music video is scheduled to be released soon.
Junior Winners
by Hans King Fancy
may be the breeding ground for future calypsonians in this country. Yesterday
two residents of that community took the top spots in the Junior Calypso
competition. Phamojah “Man Resistance” Williams of the Fancy Government
School retained his title in the primary schools category while Jade “Little
Jade” Bowens, a resident of Fancy attending the Bishops College Kingstown was
crowned the Secondary Schools Monarch. The second spot in the primary category
went to Danny Chambers of the School For Children With Special Needs and third
position to Latoya ‘Shizzle” Stapleton of the CW Prescod Primary. In the
secondary category former primary monarch Courtney Williams a.k.a. Courtney
Melody of the St. Vincent Grammar School took the 2nd position while
Cindy “Singing Cindy” Dunbar of the Campden Park Secondary placed third.
Vincy Cool Down
by Rochelle Baptiste For the first time ever Vincentians and visitors alike will be treated to a Carnival cool down come Wednesday July 10. The event, organized the New Montrose Hotel (NMH) and Tony Phillips of NBN in Trinidad and Tobago, will be a whole-day affair beginning at 1000am at The Iguana NMH Manager Leroy Lewis said Vincy Cool Down 2003, which seeks to give persons a place to unwind after the hectic Carnival season will feature a number of local and regional artistes. Lewis is encouraging all persons to be apart of the event as they are hoping to stage it annually. Casted are 2003 Queen of Calypso Princess Monique, Hottsand, Luta, Alla G, Becket, Man Age, Roses Crew, Brother Ebony, Cable & Wireless Starlift Steel Orchestra, and DJ’s from Hitz FM, Yes FM and FM 100 in T&T.
Kaiso Finalists
by Hans King Three females including reigning Queen of Calypso Princess Monique are among the 10 calypsonians through to the National Calypso finals following Friday’s semis. She is joined by former queen and national monarch Joy-C and former junior calypso monarch Pat Ralph. The finalists also include two other former monarchs, Sulle and Man Age. The other five finalists are Brother Ebony, IPa, Exposer, Josiah and Patches. They will be trying to dethrone reigning calypso monarch Abijah on Sunday July 6 when the finals takes place as part of the Dimanche Gras show at the Victoria Park.
Junior Results
by Richard Mac Leish Junior
Carnival on Saturday saw Deuce Morning Radio Mirage Productions with Feather
Kingdom, take the Junior Band of the Year for the third time in four years.
Winning positions were: Junior
Queen of Carnival Junior
King of Carnival Best
Junior Section Junior
Band of the Year Neisha
Nixed by Zhinga Greaves A
new Junior Soca Monarch was crowned here yesterday. Hans “Man Hans” John from the Evesham Primary School got
the judges approval yesterday evening with his song “Heat it up”. The second
position was claimed by Rohan “Mint” Martin, a finalist in the International
Soca Monarch competition this year, who sang “Some more”. Corneisha
“Neisha” Crooke last year’s junior monarch had to settle for the third
spot with her rendition “Peace party”. This year’s show, sponsored in part
by Hitz FM, also saw the inclusion bands sectional and individual competitions.
The judges pips were: Section
of the Bands Individuals
of the Bands
Miss Carival Queens
by Nneka Elliott This country will be welcoming queens from the region from Sunday June 29 for the Miss Carival show. Represented will be Antigua and Barbuda Shermain Jeremy, Barbados Leanne Baker, Dominica Minerve Lewis, Dominican Republic Molina Norisel, Grenada Marva Caliste, Jamaica Kaydeon Thomas, Puerto Rico Joan Colon, St. Kitts/Nevis Shamara Morton, Trinidad and Tobago Tivalee Samaroo. According to chairperson of the Beauty Shows Committee Cheryl Rodriguez, the young ladies have a hectic week ahead of them. The list of activities includes several public outings aimed at giving Vincentians the chance to get to know the contestants. The highlight of which is the annual motorcade, which, this year will commence on the Leeward side of the island. The Carival contestants will also get a special treat this year with a visit to the island of Bequia. Also planned for the young ladies are visits to various business places in St. Vincent as well as a visit to Cabinet. The Beauty Shows Committee is eager to show Vincentians exactly what the show has to offer. Rodriguez is guaranteeing that the girls are eager as well. The show kicks off on Friday July 4 at the Victoria Park.
Sunblaze Booked
by Nneka Elliott A recent book launch at the University of the West Indies School of Continuing Studies marked a historic occasion for the calypsonian community and the nation as a whole. The book entitled “Trail of fire - tribute to the Mighty Sunblaze” was written by Keith Joseph and will finally give Vincentians the opportunity to learn about the calypsonian who contributed greatly to the art form here. Joseph stressed his interest in culture in general and expressed great pleasure to have been given the opportunity to write such a book. The book launch ceremony also heard addresses from fellow calypsonian and family member Man CP and Sunblaze.
Soca Monarch
More by Hans King Competitors
in this year’s Hitz FM Hairoun Beer Soca Monarch competition will be walking
away with heavier purses this year as the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC)
increased the top prizes and appearance fees for the show. CDC chairman Dennis
Ambrose announced at a press conference this morning that the top prize has been
increased from $12,000 to $15,000. In addition to significant increases in the
runner-up positions, appearance fees have been doubled to $1,000. Ambrose said
the overall increase in price money has taken the total from $33,500, which was
paid out last year, to $42,000 for this year. The CDC chairman said the
increases make the Soca Monarch show bigger, better and brighter in keeping with
the theme for Vincy Mas 2003. He said this should inspire any artiste to enter
the competition in the future. Meanwhile, the names of the 14 finalists in the
competition have been released. The list includes 3 females – Lady D, Pat
Ragguette and Shaunelle Mc Kenzie. The male finalists are Mint, Dennis Bowman,
Maddzart, Squitty, John Dougan, Gringo, Syxx, Alla G, Galaniare, Short Man and
P’tani Bra. The reserves are Aretha and Bum-E. The finalists will face
reigning monarch Poorsah on Saturday July 5.
Semifinals On
by Hans King Fantastic
Friday, the official opening of Vincy Mas 2003 and the semifinals of the
National Calypso Competition are good to go. Speaking at a press conference at
the Carnival Development Corporation’s (CDC) office this morning, president of
the Calypsonians Association and producer of the show Conley rRose said
everything is in place for the big night. Rose said following much discussion
the bands SVG Rage and Perogative were selected to back the 20 calypsonians in
the show. Rose said he hopes that about 3,000 patrons will attend the show,
which is not just the semifinals but also the opening of Vincy Mas 2003. The
president said the only disappointing aspect of the show so far is the lack of
sponsorship support from the business community. He however thanked the CDC,
Coreas, and Bryden and Sprott for their support. Some members of the public may
also be disappointed that the Black Stalin who was scheduled to perform at the
show is unable to make it. One calypsonian from each of the six tents will
perform during the intermission.
Twenty For Abijah
by Rochelle Baptiste The
20 calypsonians who have made it to the semifinals of the National Calypso
Competition have been announced. They are Ipa, Kijah Gani, Bam, GC, Lady D,
Sulle, Pat Ralph, Josiah, Black Messenger, Groovy D, Exposer, Man Age, Joy-C,
Brother Ebony, Zion I, Jessikiah, Sun Beam, Man Tabbit, Patches and reigning
Calypso Queen Princess Monique. The two reserves are Nzimbu and I. The 20
calypsonians presenting various tents were picked from a field of seventy-three
who faced the judges in the preliminaries, which began on June 13 and ended last
Friday. The tents include Dynamites of New York, Brigade Prophets, Graduates,
North South Leeward Stars, the Calypso Theater and On Tour. The semifinals are
scheduled for this Friday.
Nelson Bloc Ready
by Sheron Garraway Digicel
Hitz FM Nelson Bloc is ready for the Carnival season and is encouraging patrons
to do the same. Band member Sean Brewster says they will be reflecting on their
20-year history as an organization and six of the 11 sections have already been
sold out. He noted that persons tend to pick costumes that they can identify
with and the staff is doing their best to meet the demand of persons.
Sunblaze Noted
by Nneka Elliott A recent book launch at the University of the West Indies School of Continuing Studies marked a historic occasion for the calypsonian community and the nation as a whole. The book entitled “Trail of fire - tribute to the Mighty Sunblaze” was written by Keith Joseph and will finally give Vincentians the opportunity to learn about the calypsonian that contributed greatly to the art form here. Joseph stressed his interest in culture in general and expressed great pleasure to have been given the opportunity to write such a book. The book launch ceremony also heard addresses from fellow calypsonian and family member Man CP and Sunblaze himself.
Commish Promises
by Zhinga Greaves Commissioner of Police William Harry has promised that the Police will do all within its power to make this carnival season the safest ever. The measures the Police will be employing in doing so include having a greater presence of high-level officers on the streets, among them, the commissioner himself. Commissioner Harry is however asking the public to co-operate with them throughout the season. The Carnival action, which was officially launched weeks ago, gets into high gear this weekend with the beginning of the eleven days of Carnival.
Caravan Three
by Richard Mac Leish The Carnival Caravan, a joint Carnival promotional initiative between Hitz FM, Digicel, Piton Beer, GECCU, CDC, WE FM, the National Lotteries Authority, and the band Hottsand, rolled into the Chili Playing Field yesterday afternoon on its last stop before Vincy Carnival 2003. Featured were Hottsand frontliners Maddzart, Shaunelle, and Johnny Rebel, 2003 the HItz FM Road Crew, Junior Soca Monarch runner-up Aretha, and 2003 Road March and Soca Monarch champion Poorsah. The massive crowd from Carib country in the extreme north to as far south as Kingstown, was by far the largest gathering yet for the area, and the pictures below tell the tale that Vincy Carnival 2003 will be bigger, better, and brighter:
Wizards Sponsorship
by Hans King The
Wizards mas band has received some much needed financial assistance from
distributors Bryden and Sprott. Yesterday General Manager of Bryden and Sprott
John Tash handed over a cheque to treasurer of Wizards Jamal Abdul Samad to
assist the band with preparations for Carnival. According to Tash the donation
was made possible through the contributions of SMJ Beverage St. Lucia, bottlers
of Classic Cola, and St. Lucia Distillers, bottlers of Sting. Samad thanked the
company for the donation and paid tribute to former Wizards leader Lennox
“Dinks” Johnson. He noted that it was the first time in Wizards’ 20-year
history that the band is doing without its founder. Samad however promised that
Wizards would do its best to make Johnson proud.
Caravan Two The Carnival Caravan, a Carnival promotional venture by the Carnival Development Corporation, Digicel, Piton Beer, Hitz FM, WE FM, Hottsand, GECCU, and the National Lotteries Authority rolled into the Calliaqua yesterday, as part of the close of the East St. George Carnival activities. Revellers from the area took to the streets from 4:30pm, jumping from Villa, through Glen, to the Calliaqua playing field. The Caravan featured Hitz FM DJ’s, the bands Rage and Hottsand with frontliners Maddzart, Johnny Rebel, Shaunelle, and Bowmani, as well as sets from Poorsah and Alla G. The massive crowd jumped and waved well into the evening, putting the cap on arguably on of the largest rural Carnival events to date. Carnival Caravan moves to the Chili Playing Field next Sunday.
Miss North Windward
by Nneka Elliott Miss
Georgetown Joleen Toney walked away with the title of Miss North Windward 2003
on the weekend. Toney also copped Best Swimwear, Eveningwear and Interview.
Second place went to Miss Sandy Bay Sharina Nero who also won the Best Talent
segment, and in third place was Miss South Rivers Lafleur Jack. The other
contestants were Miss Diamonds Deonis Pope and Miss Brownstown Mellissa Edwards.
Meanwhile, calypsonian D’akeem from the Park Hill Government School emerged
the winner of the calypso competition, with his song “I’m Calypso”. Lady
Hannah of Greggs Government got second place singing “Bush fire”, and third
place went to Lady M from Sandy Bay Government with her song “School children
doing it”.
Princess Queen
by Rochelle Baptiste This
country now has a new female calypso monarch. Princess Monique captured the
crown last Saturday night from a field of eight contenders including four-time
winner Joy C. It was a very competitive show from all indications but Princess
Monique reigned supreme, beating out the other seven contenders in the Carib
Queen of Calypso competition. She got the crowd and the judge’s approval with
her two compositions “The new colonizers” and “Caribbean Integration”.
Second place went to Pat Ralph who had been absent from the calypso arena for
some four years. Ralph sang her way to that position with her songs “Crying
harder” and “Calypso music”. Former queen Joy C had to settle for the
third position. In her first appearance Joy C paid tribute to Lokeisha Nanton
who was brutally murdered last year. She then took it to a personal level with
the song “A simple calypsonian”. Reigning Junior Soca Monarch Corniesha
Crooke took the fourth position. There was a tie for the fifth spot between
Little Bit and Kijah Gani. Seventh place went to Lady D and coming in the cellar
position was first time entrant Ranking Bash. Miss SVG 2003 Shevern Peters
crowned of the new calypso queen.
Triple Crown
by Sheron Garraway Eighteen
year-old Naressa Ollivierre added another title to her list of beauty pageants
after winning the East St. George pageant last Friday. Ollivierre, who won the
Miss Culture Pot and Miss Independence pageants in 2000, captured the crown
competing against seven other contestants. Ollivierre also earned the Best
Talent title with her rendition of the song “Perseverance”. First runner up
was Miss SVG Air and Barefoot Yacht Charters Annella Bascombe of Villa who also
captured Best Interview. Second runner-up was Javorne Williams Miss Cariaccess
and A&G Sunshine Boutique. The Congeniality award went to Miss Howard’s
Marine Ltd. Joselle Weekes of Golden Vale. Miss Nice Foods and Twin City
Gabrielle Browne was voted Miss Photogenic and got the Best Eveningwear title.
The other contestants were Miss Fair Hall Carlanne Cabral, Nadine DeBique Miss
Enhams,
Clarissa Edwards Miss Prospect.
GC Wins
by Sheron Garraway Some
6 calypsonians also competed for the title of East St. George Calypso Monarch,
captured by Gosnel “GC” Cupid with his thought provoking piece entitled “Lokeshia”.
Second was Glenroy “Bumpi” Richards who pledged not to “Jump and wave”
but was cleverly doing that through out his song. Third was lone female Kijah
Gani who urged ladies to do the right thing and get married with her song
“Goddess”. The other smashing calypsonians were Soca Iwell, Tum-I and
Gringo.
P’tani Mas
by Jennifer Richardson The curtains came down on the revived P’tani Mas yesterday. The rural Carnival’s climax followed the grand Marriaqua Queen Pageant, which though dogged by technical difficulties, managed to live up to expectations with all six contestants providing keen competition. In the end Deon Paul, Miss Marriaqua Mountains, who hails from the village of Richland Park, walked away with the coveted title. Joyita Ashton from the village of Cane End was the First Runner-Up and also took the Best Talent prize. Natallie Campbell from the village of Riley took the 2nd Runner-up spot. Roseann Primus of Cane End was adjudged Miss Photogenic while Kemisha Homer of Carriere walked away with the Miss Amity prize. The weekend events climaxed Monday with the J’ouvert and street party.
Junior Calypso
by Rochelle Baptiste Nine
primary schools are through to the finals of the 2003 Junior Calypso
Competition. They will all come up against defending monarch Phamjah “Man
Resistance” Williams of the Fancy Government School for top honors. The
schools are Pamelus Burke, South Rivers Methodist, Dorsetshire Hill Government,
Calder, Evesham Methodist, CW Prescod who has two representatives, Argyle Roman
Catholic, Park Hill, and the School For Children With Special Needs. The finals
take place on Tuesday July 1 at the Victoria Park.
Queen Courted
by Nneka Elliott Just
days after being crowned Miss SVG 2003, Chevern Peters has received one of her
prizes a 20 inch colour TV from Courts. The prizes will continue to come in when
the Carnival Development Corporation holds its annual prize giving ceremony. The
prizes for the queen will include $8000 and a prize trip to New York, among
others.
Queen Returns
by Hans King A welcome fit for a queen was what residents of the Grenadine island of Bequia gave Miss SVG 2003 Chevern Peters as she returned to her hometown yesterday. Residents lined the wharf in Port Elizabeth to cheer Peters, the first Bequia resident to win the coveted title. She was welcomed with a champagne toast from her mother, siblings and other relatives and friends. A motorcade was also held in honour of Peters, who was flanked by fellow contestant from Bequia Orissa Malcolm throughout the welcoming celebrations. In an interview following her arrival Peters – Miss Caribbean Imaging Center, attributed her success to several persons. Peters will represent this country in the Miss Carival Pageant scheduled for Friday July 4.
Soca
Swings Thousands of Vincentians flocked to the Victoria Park to ride high on Hitz FM’s launch of Soca Swing last Sunday. Soca Swing marked the start of Hitz FM’s annual Carnival programming, featuring round-the-clock Carnival-oriented music and information for the 5th consecutive year. The annual switch to an all-Soca and Calypso format is aimed at promoting and developing Vincy Carnival, the nation’s premiere cultural festival. Soca Swing runs from June to the end of Carnival. The 2nd annual launch on Sunday night party got going from 6:00pm and got progressively hotter with patrons and artistes swinging into the wee hours of the morning. Producer of the show, Richard Mac Leish was happy with the response to the show. He says Hitz FM will continue to promote local and regional artistes and Soca, the music that drives Carnival. Digicel, Carib beer, and the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), who contributed tangibly to the success of the show, sponsored soca Swing 2003. Featured acts included the newly renamed band Hottsand, Alla-G, Aretha, Colin Peters, Zonell, Squitty, Skinny Fabulous, and the Hitz FM sound crews, Nu Koncep International, Jugglerz Sound, Clockerz Crew, DJ Tarus, Exclusive Sounds, Blo Out Crew, and Westside Connection, who kicked things off with some energetic performances that got the crowd calling for more. The action in the park got even hotter when the featured acts took to the stage. Keann of Barbados was swung her hips and trembles to her hits, “Balampalampam” and “Stick and Tremble”. Sannel Dempster, lead singer for Trinidad and Tobago’s Blue Ventures, and 1999 Road March champion, enraptured the massive crowd with her strong feminist lyrics, and energetic pace. Her hit parade included “River”, “Chances”, Control” and “Carnival Coming”. Soca Swing 2003 was the festival’s first musical show under the CDC’s new stage and lights, which were provided by A&B Music Supplies. Sound reinforcement was provided by Dynamic Guys with mixing by Cleve Scott.
Bequia Royale History was created over the weekend with Shivern Peters, Miss Caribbean Imaging Centre being the first resident of Bequia to be crowned Miss SVG. With a talent that rocked the Victoria Park, a figure that complemented her swimwear, and an evening gown that captivated the audience, the eighteen year-old aspiring electrician of Bequia was crowned Miss SVG 2003. Peters congratulated her fellow contestants immediately after the announcement of her victory showing why she was also voted Miss Congeniality. Miss Fred J. Dare Ltd., Kerina Shortte of Greggs also gave of her best, which earned her the first runner-up position. Second runner-up was Josanne Simper, Miss Parnell Kerr Foster of Layou whose intelligence was evident and landed her the Best Interview sash. The unique beauty of Miss Mustique Company Ltd., Maurissa Bailey earned her the Miss Photogenic. Keeping a smile throughout the pageant and determined to give her all was Miss Palm Island Resort, Orissa Malcom. Zoia Boyea-Sam, Miss Franco Construction Company and the expressive Miss Mariners Hotel and Empire Cigarettes, Claudia Stephens of Sharps were the other two contestants. Praising the ladies for their courage during her final walk was Miss SVG 2002 La Ferne Fraser. The show, which was complemented with an impressive stage had stunning performances from local artistes and regional show stoppers Singing Sandra and Calypso Queen of the World, Calypso Rose. The newly crowned royalty will now go on to represent this country at the Miss Carival Show in July.
Judges Empaneled
by Nneka Elliott Potential
judges for calypso shows during this year’s Carnival season were involved in a
very successful and thorough training/evaluation workshop last week. The
workshop was organised by the Calypsonians Association and the calypso
adjudicators for Carnival. At the end of the workshop the association selected a
list of qualified judges for the season. The panel of judges selected include
Kendall Durrant, Victor Peters, Garth Williams, Roddy Dowers, Earl Paynter,
Clive Bishop, Vincent Stewart, Alban Cummings, Jeffers Alexis, John Crichton,
Jennifer Glasgow-Browne, Colin Williams, and Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams.
East St. George
by Rochelle Baptiste Rural Carnival activities gained further momentum last weekend with the launch of East St. George Carnival. Speaking at the launching ceremony chairman of the East St. George Carnival Committee Bert Francois said they are hoping to make the festival a great one and make up for its absence in recent years. Parliamentary Representative Clayton Burgin in his address called on residents to give the festival their fullest support. Minister of Tourism and Culture René Baptiste who also addressed the ceremony called on all rural Carnival committees to bring forward their ideas early so that they could receive the necessary support. Saturday’s launch also saw an appearance by the East St. George beauty contestants. The pageant, which is the first activity on their calendar of events, is expected to take place on June 13 at the Iguana.
Carnival The Carnival Caravan, a Carnival promotional venture by the Carnival Development Corporation, Digicel, Piton Beer, Hitz FM, WE FM, Hottsand, GECCU, and the National Lotteries Authority got off the blocks with it's first show at the Biabou Playing Field. South Windward revellers gathered from as early as four in the afternoon, jamming to the sounds of the Hitz FM Road Crew, featuring members of the several Sound Crews resident on Hitz FM. The Caravan featured SVG's newest band, Hottsand, with frontliners Maddzart, Johnny Rebel, Shaunelle, and Bowmani. Also on stage were Squitty, Aretha, Road March and Soca Monarch champion Poorsah, and Alla G. The capacity crowd jumped, waved, moved to the left, moved to the right, and wore the ground down, showing that carnival 2003 was well under way. The Caravan rolls into another town next Sunday.
Brigade of Prophets Tent
by Nneka Elliott The Brigade of Prophets Calypso Tent announced its 2003 cast, which includes Walbou, Isa-Jah, Bum-e, Jah Burke, Struggler, Shane, Sadist Alive, Bliney, Iceman, Man-Tabbit, Ranking Sam, Misty, Stepping Razor, Nello and Shaka. The band ‘Reflex’ will provide the music. The tent launch takes place tomorrow at the Russell’s Cinema.
RJR To Launch RJR Associates, the leading J’Ouvert band in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has announced their plans for J’Ouvert 2003. RJR secretary Stephen Huggins says that this year the band has obtained an improved sound system and entertainment is to also to be provided by Hottsand. Performers such as Kevin Lyttle and Poorsah are expected to be present. RJR also promises a day of clean, safe fun. The official launching of the band will be held on June 7at Heritage Square. The band will also continue its tradition of donating some of its proceeds to charitable organisations. East St. George Carnival
by Jennifer Richardson Preparations
for rural Carnivals continue around the country at full speed. The East St.
George Carnival Committee now in the process of finalizing plans for the
re-introduction of Carnival in that area has released a programme of activities.
Friday May 30 will see the launch of their Carnival at Culture Pot square with
the appearance from queens, calypsonians and the band Rage, Friday June 13, the
staging of the calypso monarch and queen show at Club Iguana, Saturday June 14
J’Ouvert and old mas competition at Iguana, and Sunday June 15 street jump-up
and Carnival Blow Out.
North Windward Carnival
by Jennifer Richardson The
North Windward Carnival is set to launch on June 1, with the Junior
Calypso Competition on the 7th, calypso show and dance on the 8th,
the queen show on June 13th, and J’Ouvert and street jump up on
June 14th.
North South Leeward Tent
by Rochelle Baptiste As
the countdown to Vincy Carnival continues another calypso tent will be launching
its cast this weekend. The North South Leeward Stars Calypso Tent will launch
its cast at the Questelles Government School on Saturday with a star studded
cast, which includes Brother Ebony – the Best New Song winner, Patches, Joy-C,
Man Sick, Wais, Zion–I, Kahalia, Jessekiah, Sunny Banks, Bosalt, Blogo, Papa
Istan, Gareth “24” Andrews, Muddy Knights, Gairy, Keisha Gordon and Wolde
Dawait. Guest artistes are Alla-G, D Rapper, and Raspect. The MC for the
evening’s proceedings is Lexi Joseph. The North South Leeward Stars is a
merger between South Leeward and Stars Calypso tents.
Digicel Carnival
by Sheron Garraway
On Tour Casts
by Rochelle Baptiste As
the 2003 Carnival season builds up tempo, another calypso tent is announcing its
launch for this Friday. The On Tour Calypso Tent featuring some 12 cast members
will launch at the Russell’s Cinema. The members are Gams, Azarah, Jeremiah,
Gringo, Lady D, Bam, former monarch Freedom Fighter, I, De Whip, and Ipa.
Friday’s launching will feature a guest appearance by Road March King Poorsah
and a dance by King Spice. It will also hear addresses from Minister of Tourism
and Culture René Baptiste, Chairman of the Carnival Development Committee
Dennis Ambrose, and President of the Calypsonians Association Conley Rose.
Miss SVG
by Rochelle Baptiste After making their first public appearance at the launch of Vincy Mas 2003, the seven contestants in the Miss SVG Pageant met with the local media today. Promising only their best, the contestants said Vincentians are in for a good show this year where talent and intelligence will be put to the test. The contestants who hail from several communities throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be competing in four categories including Swimwear, Talent, Evening Wear and Interview. The seven Morissa Bailey, Orissa Malcom, Chevorn Peters, Keirena Shotte, Josanne Simper, and Claudia Stevens. Pageantry perfection trainer June Huggins said the girls are currently undergoing training to get them mentally and physically prepared for the show. Huggins is encouraging all Vincentians to come out and support the girls. Chairperson of the Beauty Shows Committee Cheryl Rodriguez says over the coming weeks the girls will be busy with their final preparations for the show while making several public appearances. The pageant is scheduled for May 31 at the Victoria Park and will feature Singing Sandra, and Calypso Queen of the World, Calypso Rose, both from Trinidad and Tobago.
Carnival Launches Vincy Carnival 2003 got off to a smashing start at the weekend with the big launch at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce car park. The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) ensured that persons who could not make it into Kingstown were not left out of the launch. Hundreds of Vincentians on the Leeward and Windward sides of the country were allowed to fete as the CDC with the help of DJ’s from Hitz FM ensured that everyone got into the Carnival spirit with sound truck whistle stops. The day’s event attracted Carnival lovers from as early as 10am until well after 10pm Saturday. Bigger, Better and Brighter it seemed to be as Vincentians and visitors came out in their numbers to be a part of the launch. Minister of Culture René Baptiste better urged Vincentians to keep piracy out of the festival and support local music. Baptiste emphasized that the new Copyright Act would be enforced. Also stressing the need to abide by the law was CDC chairman Dennis Ambrose, who encouraged Vincentians to participate peacefully. Miss SVG and Miss Carival 2002 LaFern Fraser who will be representing this country at the Miss Universe pageant in 2004, urged the public to support the beauty contestants. The New Song competition was a resounding success with Brother Ebony walking away with the winning song. Introduced for the first time to the launch of Vincy Mas, the competition saw a total of ten finalists who were selected from a total of 40 entries. Brother Ebony sang his way to the hearts of the judges with his song ‘Criminals’. Lady Joy-C with ‘Tribute to Lokeisha’ placed second and GC with his song ‘Lokiesha’ placed third. Two Hitz FM sound trucks took thousands around Kingstown late in the evening in a mini street jump-up. The next big show on the CDC calendar is the Miss SVG pageant, which com |