At the age of 33, Michelle Elsa Borel has done it all: a mother of three, a broadcaster for 16 years, brand manager for a popular fast food chain, a student at Costaatt, a pastry chef and now a published poet. Soulspection is the title of Borel’s first book of poetry and it will be on the shelves of bookshops by the end of the month.

Soulspection will have its official launch on November 27 and will be available at Charran’s Bookstore nationwide. Borel will also be the feature speaker at the commemoration of National Poetry Day 2016, to be held on October 15 at the AV Room, Nalis, Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain, at 6 pm.

The daughter of promoter Roxanne Browne-Philips and Jean Borel, Borel was christened Michelle Elsa but also answers to Fekerte Selassie and attended St Francois Girls’ College. She credits her upbringing and childhood with allowing her to become the respected professional she is today.

Today a much listened-to broadcaster, Borel spoke of those who influenced her. She said: “I had the pleasure of growing up with my grandparents, John and Elsa Borel, and I had so many wonderful teachers at St Francois who truly helped to mold me and gave me the encouragement I needed to become a broadcaster. 

“The teacher who discovered my talent was my Geography teacher, Mrs Gomez. The teacher who fueled my love for English Literature was the inspiring Ms Baldwin. It was at St Francois that I started hosting shows held by the school. This was a great vehicle that gave me the drive I needed to become a broadcaster. 

“Thankfully, I have had the privilege of being encouraged by a melange of figures who gave their all to their craft, and their passion was contagious. I cannot forget mentors like Tony Lee, Dale Enoch, Adrian Don Mora, Carl Beaver Henderson and Ian Eligon, not to mention both of my grandmothers—Elsa Borel and Yvonne Browne—and my mother Roxanne. 

“A child learns not only by what they are told, but mostly by what they see. I saw my mother writing down any idea that came to her mind, at any hour in the morning. I saw her put it into action, I saw a woman who was passionate and filled with so much love that went beyond family and extended to even strangers.

“Roxanne Browne, my mother, has a natural ability to speak her mind without offending. Her patriotism has led to the introduction of many local names within the music industry. More importantly, she never looked back, but she moved forward. Her ideas she never slept on, but ensured they woke up with her. Despite how busy she was, she always had time to listen to my poetry. However, maybe the passion within us is being passed on from generation to generation. 

“The same could be said of my grandmother, Yvonne Browne. When you wake up, ensure your dreams wake up with you. It is difficult for me to state who I am, without being thankful for who backed me. I started writing at eight years of age and won a writing competition held by one of our local newspapers. I continued writing and, at times, have found myself—when the writing bug caught me—not being able to eat, sleep or do anything but engulf myself in it. Each one I carried to my mother like a gift. Even now, at 33 years of age, when I write I let her hear it, and she would always say, ‘go write some more’.” 

Daily, Borel continues to aspire and reach for the stars. Her quest is to inspire everyone she interacts with, whether in person or on the air. 

“I have been a broadcaster for the past 16 years, the last ten years 107.7FM,” she said. 

“Music for Life has been my on-air home. In addition to that, I am the brand manager for Popeye’s. I am presently a student at Costaatt. 

“In everything, my greatest accomplishment is having the treasure of three amazing children who I refer to as my Faith, Hope and Love, because of the powerful meaning of their names. They are Elijah, Chaydaa and Faith Thorpe. We live in Chaguanas. I love baking and anything creative. 

“What consistently motivates me is knowing that I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. I pay attention to detail. I believe if there is a desire in your heart, that it is there for a reason, and you must put your passion into action. Our life is in vain if we do not share of ourselves and while given the breath of life, use it each day to be better. Just one thing a day to get you closer to your goal—just one.”

Of her book Soulspection, Borel shared that she has included some pieces which she wrote when she was just 15. 

Borel spoke about her poetry process: “I am very much an empath, so although it may appear as though I speak from a first person standpoint in some pieces, it may be someone else’s pain that I carried with me (and am expressing).

“Some pieces are reflective of some of my personal encounters. Other work within this collection touches on general subject areas, while some poems are thoughts that kept having a party in my mind. I held on to these pieces for such a long time and now that more poetry is growing inside me, I am allowing this out,” she said.

Earlier this week, T&T Music Company Ltd (MusicTT) invited members of the media to a collaborative session with Sound Diplomacy, the UK-based company that will be responsible for producing the National Strategic Action Plan for the Music Industry of T&T. 

On October 1, Sound Diplomacy and MusicTT will also convene an “engagement session” at the CLR James Auditorium, Cipriani College of Labour and Co-Operative Studies, Churchill Roosevelt Highway, Valsayn at 2 pm.

MusicTT GM Jeanelle Frontin said Saturday’s session is imperative for Sound Diplomacy to get a comprehensive insight of T&T culture and our music industry’s distinctive issues directly from its stakeholders. 

Frontin assured that, in addition, MusicTT will be ensuring that there are widely-circulated online surveys and calls/interviews with all the music/music-related organisations, associations, influential stakeholder groups and representatives of various relevant entities.

Asked why a foreign entity was selected to pilot this initiative, Frontin said: “We (MusicTT) put out a request for proposals for the Strategic Action Plan for the Music Industry of T&T last year (the deadline was in August 2015) and we received tender proposals for local, regional and foreign companies. By following the proper procurement process, all proposals were evaluated and Sound Diplomacy was, eventually, awarded the tender.

“Their experience in this area is quite extensive and we are confident in their ability to do this. They are also cognisant of how much of our culture they will need to understand in order to be successful with this project. 

“This is also one of the reasons that this has been their first priority before beginning the development of the strategic action plan—being here, meeting with as many organisations and people as possible, to gain that unique insight.

“They will also be conducting interviews and online surveys both for the music industry and the general public (consumers of music) which we hope as many as possible will contribute to as well. This survey exercise will begin within the next couple weeks.”

Saturday’s exercise is expected to bear positive fruit for the myriad cultural expressions of T&T, inclusive of practitioners and organisations. Frontin said: “The Stakeholder Engagement on Saturday is an opportunity for Sound Diplomacy to get a wider point of view and diverse feedback on the challenges within the music industry (and hopefully potential solutions) from all in attendance. 

“It is an opportunity we are hoping is taken advantage of by as many artistes, bands, musicians, producers, DJs, engineers and all others in music and/ or music business as is possible.

“This is perhaps one of the most critical sessions for the music industry as it will guide the needs to be addressed in the development of the Strategic Action Plan for T&T.

“I know that over the years, many of our passionate stakeholders have gone to these and come away from them feeling despondent, like it was ‘just another talk shop’. They contribute their views but, over time, nothing ever changes. These ‘talk shops’ have been an undeniable occurrence within the industry.

“We are hoping to end that vicious cycle by our actions. We want to not just ensure that strategic direction taken for our country in music is powered by their collective voice, but also that our implementation from October 2017 will prove that this engagement was not ‘just another talk shop’.”

“Implementation, implementation.” Frontin said is what MusicTT hopes to accomplish after April 2017. She added: “Monitoring, evaluation, adjustment and implementation. Let’s be honest—any strategic initiatives have failed, not just here but all over the world.

“There are many reasons why, for example: not taking the time to understand the people for which the strategy is intended, which we are currently addressing; creating plans that far exceed the resources or ability of the parties involved; lack of support from the government and/or private sector in funding the recommendations of the strategic plan. And of course, lack of proper execution (inclusive of monitoring, evaluating and adapting) which has plagued us as a nation for some time.”

Christopher Thomas is the national burger-eating champion. A Form Six Languages student at St Mary’s College, Thomas broke the burger-eating record of five minutes, 32 seconds by an almost 90-seconds margin when he consumed a “Mampee” hamburger at Irie Dawgz, Cross Crossing, San Fernando, on Wednesday night at the premier edition of Cravings, a new production of CNC3.

Thomas, who turned 17 yesterday, is a self-described Scrabble expert, is the son of Christopher, a teacher, and Sally Elliot-Thomas, a news editor at CNC3, of Diego Martin. His younger sister is Shamika Thomas, a student at St Joseph’s Convent in Port-of-Spain.

As a child growing up, young Thomas would eat his food without drinking anything. His mother quipped, “And he would eat his food very quickly.” Thomas chimed in, “Eating quickly wasn’t about the taste of the food. It’s just that everything I do I do quickly.” 

According to his mother, “as a child, he loved playing so anything he did he did quickly to get back to playing.”

When CNC3 was about to begin the Cravings series and producers Nicholas Sabga and Khamal Georges were discussing the food-tasting trips they did nationwide and spoke about the Mampee burger, the biggest burger they had ever seen, they were bemused as to why a person would want to eat a hamburger that is so large. They were told that someone had actually eaten the 20-ounce monster of a burger in five and half minutes.

“I told them I am sure my son can break that record,” said Elliot-Thomas. “They told me to bring him to put him to the test. The rest is history.”

Young Thomas was taken to Irie Dawgz by Stacey Wyke and was introduced to the proprietors. He was challenged by three other competitors and then they got down to the serious business of eating a 20-ounce burger in less than five minutes.

So, what is Thomas’ secret in consuming a large bun and four stacked beef patties in record time? “The first thing I did was eat the top and bottom of the bun, all of it at the same time. Then I began eating the patties. My aim was to just get rid of those patties. The burger also had tortillas, lettuce, cheese and other stuff, but it tasted quite nice.”

Thomas was game to enter his next eating competition, a 24-slice pizza competition that was scheduled for last Thursday night at Pizza Boys, Maraval. But he added, “It’s all up to my mom.”

Thomas said he will not learn to cook although he enjoys eating. “Cooking takes too much time,” he said. “I rate my mother’s cooking ten out of ten, although there is nothing perfect in this world, but my mother’s food is perfect.”

Eating aside, Thomas’ hobbies include Scrabble, listening to music (Jazz Rap), writing poetry, and “studying words of foreign languages.” He added: “I also enjoy reading the dictionary due to the fact that I am a Scrabble player, I am able to learn the spelling of as many words as possible.” Thomas prides himself in being an “expert” player of Scrabble and hopes one day to become a Grandmaster in the game.

At St Mary’s, Thomas is currently doing French, Spanish, Literature in English and Communication Studies. About his ambition, he said: “I would really like to achieve as much as I can in Languages in the home of becoming a polyglot.”

• Look out for Cravings 8 pm every Wednesday on CNC3. Show repeats at 10 pm on Fridays and 7.30 pm on Sundays.

ABOUT CRAVINGS 
Trinbagonians love to eat, from street food to fine dining—we crave all things food. Cravings is an exploration of the T&T food culture, taking you on a culinary journey to the most popular food spots across the country.

CNC3 will whet the appetites of Trinbagonians every week with an entirely new platter of local dishes served in every corner of the country. 

Our hosts, Sean and Marie, will travel the length and breadth of T&T discovering the people behind some of the most popular local foods in the country and engage the very people that make it popular.  They will also be offering interesting facts along the way. 

In Trini parlance, Glenn Davis is an example of being a “saltfish.” A veteran thespian born to a sporting family, Davis is a husband of 44 years and father to five sons, has been a masquerader for over half a century, works with the Catholic church and in December he will celebrate 50 years of playing Santa Claus. 

Actually born on May 1, 1946 to Charles Allan and Kathleen Davis (nee Lambie), mysteriously all documentation of Davis’ existence state that he was born on May 2. He was born in a nursing home on Edward Street, Port-of-Spain, and has six siblings, including famous West Indies cricketers Bryan and Charlie Davis. 

Davis described his childhood as “a mixed one” as it was interrupted when he was seven by the separation of his parents. He describes this early life experience as being “traumatic”, but added: “You come to accept it, but one has to control the hurt.” 

Schooling is significant in Davis’ life and his primary tutelage was at Belmont Boys’ Intermediate RC School. About his earliest school days, he said: “I enjoyed it immensely; the boys were fabulous and the teachers, oh my God, they went beyond the call of duty for the students. My opinion of teachers has certainly changed, from the principals right across the board.” 

Davis migrated to Canada in 1970 and completed his education at George Brown College and Ryerson Polytechnic University where he obtained a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Hotel and Tourism Management (now called Hospitality). 

Unlike his siblings, sports was definitely not Davis’ calling. Of this he said: “My family did try with me, first football with Mr Geoff Chambers, with most of the boys going on to represent Trinidad—not me. Cricket was a disaster. All the guys from Cipriani Boulevard where we lived went to the Oval to be coached by Noel Guillen.

They tried me everywhere, from batsman to wicketkeeper, to fast bowler to slow bowler to fieldsman and even umpiring. One Sunday morning Mr Guillen just could not take it anymore, he called me to the pavilion and asked me very nicely to go home and never come back. My last attempt for sport was at the (Queen’s Park) Oval and it was lawn tennis.

As my opponent served the first ball I hit the ball right into Invaders’ panyard across Tragarete Road. I again was politely asked: ‘Take your racquet and go home, young Davis’. 

“I was fortunate, though, to have started cycling, and sort of came into my own. I made great friends and for the first two years I had a fair amount of success. But at the end of the second year, tragedy struck and I was too young to deal with it. My good friend, coach and mentor, Fitzroy Hoyte, took me to dinner one night and said: ‘Either get serious, or get off the bicycle’. You see how I started to become the comic?” 

All jokes aside, one of Davis’ true loves is theatre. He said: “My love for theatre, I believe, is innate. Everyone in our family did some sort of performance.

My father was a stand-up comic, my mother was a dancer and played hockey for Trinidad, my youngest sister Allana danced with Marcia Turner, Charlie (Dave) played sport, Bryan also did a play as a young boy. He then went on to perform in the middle of the cricket field but it was our eldest sister Astrid who was an acceptable actress in her time and who dragged me along to all of her rehearsals and I got little parts, usually crowd scenes. 

“My very first play was Drums and Colours by Derek Walcott and I was just nine years of age. It was held in the Botanical Gardens. That is where I first met Peter Minshall, he played Sir Walter Raleigh’s son. I also acted in the Passion Play in the Gardens. 

“When we lived on the Boulevard—actually we lived where is now 51 degrees Lounge—on a Sunday afternoon I would go over to Tranquility Church Hall—the side door was never locked—and I would do all sort of performances there all by myself. It was a great escape. 

“As a young boy I did several minor parts in numerous plays but, somewhere in the mid 60s, I got a part in Trinidad Dramatic Club’s Christmas Pantomime Robinson Crusoe. Derek Walcott did a critique and said that I gave a good account of myself. 

“Also, as children we went to the pantomimes at Roxy Theatre. There was an actor named Jack Spector who was the comic and I always wanted to do that type of character. He was a master of the lip sync. The experience of rubbing shoulders with Trinidad’s top male and female actors—what a trip that was. I just did not want any play to end. I always got depressed on closing nights, something like the feeling you get on Carnival Tuesday night.” 

Carnival is another of Davis’ passions. He began playing mas at age nine and, living a stone’s throw from Silver Stars panyard, it was a natural progression for him to be there. 

He said: “Our parents allowed us to go on the road at that young age once Mac Ward gave his consent to supervise us. On Friday nights during the Carnival season we were allowed to go to the panyard until 9 pm. That was very exciting. 

“The first time I played mas on a Tuesday in a costume was in 1960. I was 13. In those days we made our own costumes and I portrayed an American Indian—bolero and long pants in white corduroy with red fringe on the sides of the pants. The front and back of the bolero was decorated with mirrors, with rhinestones and swansdown all over. My father told me not to cut my hair and he made a very simple pair of wool plaits coming down to my chest. This he sewed on to the red headband which was decorated with diamond-shaped mirrors and rhinestones. It was natural looking and very comfortable. 

“My father also made me an axe which was painted black and red. My brother Bryan gave me a pair of moccasins that were painted white and also decorated. The shoes were too tight and became most uncomfortable, but I would not stop. When I got home and removed the shoes, there were two giant blisters at the top of my feet—it worked for me as I could not go to school for the rest of the week.” 

Already a dedicated masquerader, Davis added: “I never allowed any of the guys in the Boulevard to see any part of the making of the costume, so when I came onto the street, the compliments just started from them, and it continued for the whole day.

“I was on top of the world—photographs for days from people while on the streets and especially going through the (Queen’s Park) Savannah. Everyone was so friendly and happy, both masqueraders and people in the streets, smiling faces everywhere, it was like a dream.” 

Davis kept that dream alive from 1960 to 1967 when he began playing with Harts. “Last Carnival was 50 years I have played mas with Harts, the last family Carnival band,” said Davis. 

“Basically, Harts is still a family band. People come and go, but over 90 per cent of the masqueraders are loyal Harts. I know exactly where I am going to see who. The band is a family, and as in all families, there is always a little disagreement. You should hear Luis and Gerard (Hart) argue, you think it will come to blows, then ten minutes later they are hugging and speaking civil to each other.” 

“Edmund (Hart) is retired and with Lil’s passing it created a great void and an era certainly came to an end; but fortunately the children have accepted the mantle and we still have the band today. I have played a section leader for a little over 30 years and while Carnival has changed, I still get a thrill to meet all the fabulous people who play mas with and consider themselves part of the great family band—Harts.” 

Davis is quite cynical when comparing Carnival of yore to that of today. He said: “I almost said: What Carnival of today? But that would be unfair, for there may be a Carnival, but there is no mas. The Carnival of yesterday was disciplined and had meaning, both of which are lacking today in the mas and in the society. 

“Carnival of yesterday masqueraders had pride in the mas and wore their costumes with respect. Today the bandleaders give the people what they want. One may say basic marketing, but to what end. It is sort of a two-edged sword. If I am spending my money, give me what I want. So almost all of the men’s costumes—in what is considered the big bands—is a pair of short pants. Then the girls, especially in what is called the ‘front line’, basically they compete with each other on who can be more daring, all with their lovely feathers and plumes. And for what?  

“There is practically no one in the Grand Stand, less in the North Stand and not as much in the streets as before. Why should they come out—to see what? Almost every band is the same thing. When you think of bands of yesterday—bleachers east and west of the Grand and North Stands were overflowing with people applauding, and children were allowed on the side of the bands as the masqueraders passed by, taking a little jump up. (Compared to that), it is certainly a dead era.”

Actor Glenn Davis has mixed feelings about local theatre. He said: “The theatre, like every other industry, has its ups and downs. Right now the audiences are diminishing. Why? The economy, the types of shows, not giving new actors a chance, producers playing safe and using who they know. 

“Mounting a play is quite expensive—the price for renting theatre space, advertising in the media makes the producers charge an admission fee to compensate. The better known production houses use a lot of the same faces and same sort of script. So it is like Carnival. You leave with nothing substantial. 

“Last year I had a beautiful experience of being invited to do a part in Moon on a Rainbow Shawl in which Cecilia Salazar and myself were the only two experienced actors. The young people were excellent, most of them coming from UWI. The whole cast worked so hard and the audiences showed their appreciation giving them tremendous rounds of applause. These young people gave me a good feeling for the future. Incidentally, the play was directed by Mervyn de Goeas.

“I would like to believe that the State accepts the importance of culture, but culture is an expression of a society, and there are so many different expressions in our multi-ethnic country, that I would certainly not want to be an employee at the Ministry of Culture. As Chalkdust mentioned recently, ‘education and culture should go together’, but too many young people are ‘functional illiterates’. We should ask ourselves: why?

“Recently, Gerry Besson was asked to comment on how he sees our country after 54 years of Independence and it was a very interesting interview. Mr Besson’s account should be read by everyone who has serious interest in our country. I think it should be mandatory readings for students in Forms 5 and 6.

“Not all, but most of the professions today, I mean it’s not about law or medicine, it seems to be all about money. It’s all business. In what is called ‘first world’ countries, I understand most theatre shows are subsidised. For example, when you buy a ticket for US$100 the State pays about $35. Of course checks and balances are put in place to ensure no one abuses the system.” 

About the proliferation of farce-type plays as opposed to “serious” plays, Davis said:

“Serious plays are done, but by the less known theatre companies, and most of them are quite good, but they do not attract ‘sell-out’ audiences.

“We are not doing too many farces these days. It is a type of comedy that numerous people do not enjoy. I met someone recently who saw a show and her party of five left. I did not see the play but the person was telling me that they spoke about a sensitive part of a woman’s anatomy for eight minutes. Some people are not prepared to accept that type of show; she says she will never go back to a show by that production house again. So you see there are so many different people to entertain and satisfy.

“With regard to serious shows, they were very popular in the 70s to the mid to late 90s. I remember a friend of mine who had a very important and demanding job telling me he does not go to see any serious plays with people dying, etc, because when he comes to a show he wants to relax, he wants to laugh—as his life is serious enough. So you see.”

A wealth of acting mentors 

Aside from US actors Meryl Streep, Al Pacino and Denzil Washington, Davis has a number of mentors in local theatre. He said: “My first mentor is Lennox Lake. Lennox, Barry Edghill and myself did numerous plays at the Country Club and that propelled us onto the Queen’s Hall stage where we had successful shows for about four years, to always sold-out audiences. We were known as ‘the three fools’. Lennox showed me the fundamentals of stagecraft and the importance of speaking to the audience whereby the people at the back can hear your delivery without you shouting.  

“But, oh my God, there are so many mentors. There are people like Raymond Choo Kong. Novices should pay Raymond to direct them. ‘Attack the stage’! he would say. Or if, during a rehearsal, you tried something, he would not get upset but would say, ‘What’s that, Glenn, let me see it again,’ and you will know what he thinks when he says, ‘Glenn, me eh like that yuh know’? And that would be it.

“Wendell Manwarren on the other hand is such a mature director, really different but excellent. Then there is Mervyn De Goeas; some people say he is terrible to work with but I say ‘au contraire’. Mervyn is compassionate, gentle and kind off the stage, however, you will get it if you are playing the fool.  

“One can learn so much from just listening to Cecilia Salazar give you her experiences with the various characters she has done; too many to mention. And one cannot forget ‘the three sisters’—Penelope Spencer, Nicky Crosby and Mairoon Ali (who played my wife on so many occasions)—all fabulous actors. And then there is Richard Ragoobarsingh. Sharing a stage with Richard is total enjoyment. He is such a great actor and easy to work with.  

“When you come down to it, we all learn from each other, and as such, one can say we are all mentors to each other. It is great. Theatre people are such beautiful people, sensitive and courageous.”

Work at the St Dominics Pastoral Centre

So, whither goes Glenn Davis in the future? He replied: “Well, I am now threescore and ten and I work for the Dominican Fathers and I can be found daily on the compound of St Finbar’s Church. I enjoy it immensely, but like every other job, you have some not-so-good days. I hope to continue teaching at my alma mater.”

Davis currently manages the St Dominic’s Pastoral Centre, where he has been working for the past two years and nine months. The Centre was built under the auspices of the Dominican Friars of T&T, and is located on the grounds of the St Finbars RC Church on Morne Coco Road, Diego Martin.

The centre is a separate building from the church—Davis quips: “The Church is a hospital for sinners, not a club for saints.” So, while he’s happy to direct passers-by to the Church, he himself manages the Centre’s work, which includes a free medical clinic every week, open to everyone of any faith. The centre also runs a 400-seat auditorium in constant demand for a wide range of entertainment and fundraising church activities; Davis books all the acts there.

Davis says that it is never too late to change yourself for the better, sometimes in unexpected but necessary ways. He himself shares that he was visited by the adult son of a good colleague while working at the centre early this year. 

The son’s advice and programme of lifestyle change eventually led to a very healthy transformation for Davis, who shared that in the past year, he has lost 70 pounds—so much so, he says, that some people no longer recognise him.

It’s all a part of the circle of healing, sharing and help at the centre, in which Davis plays a part. He says: “I also speak to young people, especially couples, some married and some not, with all their various problems in our society today. I do not consider myself a counsellor, just an adviser. So I advise a lot of young people, especially in marriage, but I also help those not married—getting them to face their problems in a positive way. So far it has been quite rewarding to all.”

Earlier this week, organisers of Miami Broward Carnival (MBC) were keeping fingers and toes crossed that Hurricane Matthew would not negatively impact the US East Coast this weekend and affect celebrations. 

However, it seems the storm will affect the US panhandle, so much so that on Wednesday, Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez declared schools in that area would be closed that day—Miami-Dade must have painful memories of the devastation caused in 1992 by Hurricane Andrew. MBC is the last of the T&T-style global carnivals for the year, and Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee is its producer.

Because of the hurricane, the stoic organising committee has moved around engagements, and events scheduled for today will be held tomorrow. 

Following last Saturday’s successful children’s carnival parade, held at Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida, today’s Fantastic Friday Duck Work Lunch Time Bacchanal & Food Truck Invasion has been cancelled, and the  King, Queen and individuals competitions and the Panorama finals have been postponed to tomorrow at 3 pm at the same venue.

The eight steelbands in the final are defending champion Pantastik Steel Orchestra, Lauderhill Steel Ensemble Inc, Karibbean Knights, Melo Grove, Resurrection, New Generation Branches, Sticks ’n Tones Steel and Tamboo Bamboo Steel.

Celebrities Stacy Ann Rose, Third World’s Stephen Cat Coore and R City are MBC’s Celebrity Grand Marshals this year.

J’Ouvert will still be held tomorrow morning at 7 am, also at the Regional Park, followed by a party. One of the headline attractions in this year’s carnival is the participation of T&T 2016 National Panorama champion Desperadoes as a guest artiste at the Miami Broward Panorama competition, J’Ouvert and in the parade of bands. Another headline act this weekend is Kees Dieffenthaller who is billed to perform on the Concert Mega Mainstage on Carnival Day.  

On Sunday, hopefully with improved weather, an estimated 15,000 masqueraders are expected to descend along 10901 SW E Street for the parade of bands, from its 11 am start until Las Lap at 11 pm. Carnival celebrations will actually culminate at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds.

Some of the bands and their portrayals are Bajan Fuh Evah (Evolution—Celebrating 50 Years of Independence); Euphoria Production (The Warrior Within); Generation X (Erotica); Revel Nation Carnival (Realm of Dragons); and Mascots International LLC (The Last 20—Do You Remember When).

Recognised once again by the Miami New Times as one of the Top 100 events in South Florida, MBC is highly anticipated by South Florida locals and the tens of thousands of visitors who breathe and live the Carnival culture, who travel annually every Columbus Day weekend to Miami to celebrate. 

This year, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc has partnered with the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbados’ Independence in Miami. The top soca stars of Barbados, including Alison Hinds, Edwin Yearwood and Lead Pipe & Saddis, have been flown to Miami for the occasion.

In a release this week, William D Talbert III, CDME, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), said: “The Miami Broward Carnival continues to be one of our most highly anticipated annual events, attracting residents and visitors from around the globe for this multi-day celebration.

It is one of the top events to highlight the great diversity and rich Caribbean culture woven throughout the Greater Miami area.  Each year the pageantry is more spectacular as the Caribbean community proudly displays its traditions of elaborate costumes, vibrant art, music, dance and spicy flavourful foods—a proven formula for continued growth and popularity.”

Locals radiate for Sunshine Awards
Veteran Trinidad Guardian journalist David Cuffy is in esteemed company as he has been selected to be the recipient of a 2016 Sunshine Award along with legendary West Indies crickets Sir Garfield Sobers and Lance Gibbs. Other nationals to be honoured are Earl Crosby (posthumous), Carnival icon Canute Spencer and Professor Ken Julien.

The Sunshine Awards Organization announced in New Jersey, USA the nominees for the 2016 Sunshine Award this week. The 28th annual gala ceremony, a black tie event, is scheduled for Saturday, October 15 at the AXA Equitable Center, 787 Seventh Avenue at 51st Street, in New York City. 

The Sunshine Awards was founded 28 years ago to recognise excellence in the performing arts, education, humanity, science, and sports of the various Caribbean countries. 

Over the years, the programme has expanded in depth and breadth with a global view, including countries from Africa, South America, Central America, Europe and India. Last year’s recipients included Prof Dr Gordon Rohlehr, Massy Trinidad All Stars arranger Leon “Smooth” Edwards, Charlie’s Roots musical director Pelham Goddard, playwright Rawle Gibbons, songwriter Winsford “Joker” Devine and Trinidad Guardian Entertainment Editor Peter Ray Blood.

Dr Hollis Chalkdust” Liverpool, co-founder of the Sunshine Awards Hall of Fame and chairman of the Nomination and Network Committee, said this week: “What an array of bright minds and thoughtful souls for this year’s Sunshine Awards event. Our institution and all the nominees are to be commended for making this world a better place, given the many atrocities we face daily.”

Gil Figaro, Sr, chairman and founder of the Sunshine Awards, said: “We are privileged to be able to recognise the accomplishments of these stalwarts and their contributions to our lives. Generations to come will embrace their legacy to accomplish their own goals and objectives. We must remember, without them life would be without excitement and purpose. They have enabled us to engage in dialog and debates and sometimes shape a point of view. My congratulations to them all.”

SUNSHINE AWARDS NOMINEES 2016
Father Richard Ho Lung—Jamaica
Father Ho Lung will receive the 2016 Nelson Mandela Human Rights Achievement Sunshine Award for his contribution and unselfish commitment to humanity. This will be the inaugural presentation of this Award.

Professor Ken Julien—T&T
Professor Julien will receive the 2016 Dom Basil Matthews Sunshine Award for his contribution to education, human and national development.

Canute Spencer—T&T
Mr Spencer will receive the 2016 Friend of the Arts Sunshine Awards for his contribution to the performing arts.

Earl Crosby—T&T (posthumously)
Mr Crosby will receive the 2016 Friend of the Arts Sunshine Awards for his contribution to the performing arts.

Eddy Bourjolly—Haiti
The world renowned jazz guitarist will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his over 40 years of contribution to the performing arts—creole music and jazz.

Jacouba Sissoko—Mali, Africa
A world renowned kora player/musician, Sissoko will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to African music.

Pascual & Gema Nieto-Forteza—Spain
A Spanish clarinetist (Pascual) and pianist (Gema) will receive the 2016 Sunshine Awards for their contribution to the performing arts, and in particular, Latin music. In 2001, Pascual became the first Spanish musician to become a member of the New York Philharmonic orchestra. Gema is a music consultant, a music promoter and artist manager. In 2003 she began performing with Pascual and made their New York debut, at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall. Nieto-Forteza has also played in chamber groups with other Philharmonic musicians.

Kirani James—Grenada
He will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to sports. He is a sprinter who specialises in the 200 and 400 metres. He won the 400 metres at the World Championships in 2011 and the 2012 London Olympics. He was Grenada's first Olympic medalist in any sport. He was also a silver medalist at the recently concluded Rio Olympics.

Caldwell Taylor—Grenada
Taylor will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to education and research. He is a teacher, trade unionist, diplomat, historian, journalist, lecturer and cultural commentator. He studies calypso and carnival in depth, two ways, he says, of seeing the world from street-level.   

Sir Garfield Sobers—Barbados
Sir Garfield will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to sports. His first class cricket debut was at the age of 16 and he played for the West Indies between 1954 and 1974 and is regarded as the greatest all-rounder in the game of cricket.

Lance Gibbs—Guyana
Gibbs will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to sports. He is a former West Indies cricketer and is regarded as one of the most successful spin bowlers in Test cricket history. He made his first-class debut at the age of 19.

David Cuffy—T&T
Cuffy will receive the 2016 Sunshine Award for his contribution to journalism. He spent more than 40 years working as a journalist. Along the way, he reported on politics, labour and entertainment. For the past 20-plus years, he has been working exclusively in the arts and entertainment sector, writing on all aspects of the nation’s cultural diversity. 

Samir Chatterjee—India
Chatterjee is a virtuoso tabla player from India. He travels widely across the world throughout the year performing in numerous festivals as a soloist or with other outstanding musicians from both Indian and non-Indian musical traditions. He is also the founder of Chhandayan—a non-profit, charitable organisation which promotes and preserves Indian music, dance and culture.

Death seems to be stalking the Carnival fraternity with a grap of stalwart personalities taken from us for 2016. Our last mas man to pass was veteran designer/artisan Stephen Derek who died last Friday afternoon. 

He was one of the last of the old school Woodbrook mas icons, in the ilk of George Bailey, Stephen Lee Heung and Lil Hart. Having learned his mas craft at the feet of legendary George Bailey, in 1978 Derek established his D Midas Associates as a formidable mas band, winning multiple Band of the Year titles in its category, as well as King and Queen of Carnival, and Individual titles.

The recipient of the Hummingbird (Silver) in 1972, Derek’s skills were sought annually by several local bandleaders, especially to craft African portrayals, as well as by mas bands across the region, New York, Miami, Boston, London and Canada.

The list of Carnival personalities to have left us this year includes Pal Joey Lewis, Keith Carrington (Mt Hope Connection); Austin Wilson (B.O.S.S.); Peter Greaves (Irvin McWilliams/CAL Invaders); Patrick Penco (bpTT Renegades); Earl Crosby (Jus’ Wee & Friends); King Austin; and Lance Lashley (Massy Trinidad All Stars/bpTT Renegades).

Dereck’s funeral is on Saturday at Trinity Cathedral, Hart Street, Port-of-Spain, at a time to be announced.

Celebrating a month of calypso
The 2016 edition of Calypso History Month is in full swing nationwide. Premiering with the first preliminary of the National Kaisoca Karaoke Competition at Apex in St James, the East Zone of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (Tuco) staged Celebration of Awardees at De Nu Pub, Woodbrook. Held to honour Baron and Scrunter, recipients of national awards this year, the latter was a no-show.

However, the artistes that did appear treated a packed house to some enjoyable calypso ditties. Among those performing were Johnny King, Bally, Ninja, Eunice Peters, Kid Kalalloo, Carlton Louison, Sharon Fraser and Baron, to the musical accompaniment of Cummings & D’Wailers.

De Nu Pub was again the venue last Wednesday night when the Tuco North Zone staged The Show 1.2.3. Humour in Yuh Pweffen. Headlining this show were two-time Humour Calypso Monarch Bro Ebony, Crazy, Funny, Trinidad Rio, Typher, Mr Nature and Mechanic. Cummings & D’Wailers again provided musical accompaniment and the show was hosted by Shirlaine Hendrickson.

Yesterday morning, the North Zone also held a Children’s Calypso Workshop at the AV Room, Nalis, Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain, and last evening, the South Zone staged another preliminary of the National Kaisoca Karaoke Competition at Wilkies, Cocoyea Village, San Fernando.

Tomorrow, it’s the turn of the National Action Cultural Committee (NACC) to host its gala 2016 Top 20 Stars of Gold and Calypso of the Year Ceremony, at Central Bank Auditorium, Lower St Vincent Street, Port-of-Spain, at 7 pm.

The Tobago Zone of Tuco will have its turn on Sunday morning to get into Calypso History Month action with the staging of the audition of the 2016 Vintage Calypso Competition, at Fairfield Complex, Tobago, at 10 am.

Anslem Douglas, whose Who Let the Dogs Out won a Grammy Award, has initiated The Calypso Series (Keeping Calypso Alive) at venues mainly in South Trinidad. Every Thursday, the show is held at C Phillips Pub in  Gasparillo. Other venues and dates are Epicurian Palace, Bobb Street, La Romaine (Fridays); at Cocoa Shed, La Brea (Saturdays); and, Artherly’s, Sutton Street, San Fernando (Sundays). 

Calypsonians who starred in The Calypso Series last weekend are Skatie, Explainer and Poser. At all venues, the lime begins at 7 pm with showtime starting two hours later.

Calypso History Month events are scheduled until November across the land.

One of the significant events in Calypso History Month is next week Saturday’s 14th AGM being staged at the NCC VIP Lounge in the Queen’s Park Savannah from 10 am. It goes without saying that all calypsonians are expected to attend.

During November and December, Tuco will also be holding its zonal elections at various venues nationwide. 

In related news, tomorrow evening’s Marcia Miranda on Stage: The Concert has been postponed to November 5. The Parang Soca Queen is laid up with a very bad strep throat and has been advised by her doctor to rest her throat for a couple of weeks. Miranda’s guests will be Jason “Fridge” Seecharan, Black Sage, Kevon Carter, Los Canarios, The Ashley Arismandez Dancers and Overdrive.

Fund-raiser for Beulah
Well known actor, dramatist, teacher and local celebrity Shirley (Beulah) King has recently experienced some very unfortunate circumstances. As you may have seen and heard in this and other media, King was hospitalised in ICU with health complications. While she was there, her home was destroyed by fire, and since then she has suffered a stroke. She is out of the hospital and is now being temporarily housed at a family member’s home. Added to that, her husband has cancer, he is in a wheelchair and so is she. 

Tomorrow, at 8 pm, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (Sapa) at the corner of Todd Street and Rienzi Kirton Highway, San Fernando, some 50 comedians, actors and dramatists will all come together for a fund-raising event—For the Love of Beulah. Artistes include Tommy Joseph, Sprangalang, Peter Joseph, Princess Margaret, Bernard Brereton, the Caribbean Maccometre Group, and Brandon & Brandath Ramnath.

They are putting their talent towards raising funds to assist King rebuild her home, her health and to regain some form of respectable life for herself and her husband. 

Limited two-people-on-one tickets are on sale at $300 at Mohammed’s book store, Chaguanas; Valini’s Drug Mart; and the Wack Radio office, 129C Coffee Street, San Fernando. Tickets are also available from the committee members and the Cunupia Roman Catholic Church, and at the venue on the day of the show. 

“Carnival 2017 will be a success” is the assurance given this week by Minister of Community Development, the Arts and Culture Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly in the wake of the 2016-2017 Budget presented last week Friday by Finance Minister Colm Imbert, referring to expected reductions to the transfer of subsidies to statutory bodies, specifically as this pertains to culture.

With Carnival 2017 a mere five months away, the Culture Minister sounded upbeat when she added: “There are a couple of new initiatives we are currently discussing. We have been through recisions before and carnival has survived. There is no cause for concern, like everything else, we now have to count our costs and ensure that the money we spend is impactful.”

With reference to next year’s Carnival, the minister continued: “The allocation to the National Carnival Commission (NCC) has been reduced as the NCC no longer has a loan, which was a substantial amount to the allocation made in the 2015-2016 budget.”

An area of concern within the steelband fraternity for the past few months has been the non-payment of money by Pan Trinbago to pan musicians for performing at the 2016 National Panorama competition. The minister explained: “Pan Trinbago receives a sum of money from the NCC to manage Panorama. With regards to their internal affairs and finances, how they pay out money is strictly to the remit of Pan Trinbago.

“Pan Trinbago has to organise its finances based on the 2016-2017 subvention from the NCC and that has not been decided as yet. We intend doing that pretty early to ensure that they can then consider how they will service their outstanding debts and the arrangements they will make for Carnival 2017. I have been in constant communication with Pan Trinbago sensitising them to the fact that their allocation will most likely be reduced in keeping with the general reduction of expenditure that the government has embarked upon.”

David Lopez, chairman of the National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA), is concerned that no significant mention was made in the budget regarding culture and its myriad components. Stating that the Finance Minister did make mention of government stating its commitment to upgrading and refurbishing cultural institutions, and expanding music and cultural camps across all communities, the chairman said: “With respect to carnival and what is expected I have always said the money that is divested to the NCC for carnival does not redound to the benefit of the producers of the carnival. The people who benefit are the service providers; the people who provide the stages, tents, sanitation amenities, lighting and sound, and all the hospitalities pertaining to food and drink.

“In terms of the money that is allocated, the government continues to say we have to tighten our belts and come up with creative ways of generating revenue. If we look at the money that goes into carnival in recent budgets, of $344M that goes to the NCC to run the carnival, out of that the three interest groups that have the responsibility of producing carnival just get about $75M in all. In terms of money allocated to culture from this recent budget, which has not been mentioned, the minister indicated under the transfer of subsidies to statutory bodies might indicate exactly how much will be given to the NCC.

“If we are to go with what the prime minister is saying, on one hand he is calling for private participation in organising the country going forward and on the other hand you have the NCC saying that the government is not involved in running the carnival.

They have to decide what they should do in terms of realignment of the social programmes as if they want to run the NCC under the ambit of a social programmes I guess the NCC also should be realigned because the NCC has not fulfilled its mandate of making the carnival a viable financial venture. Instead, a lot of money has gone into the NCC to pay contractors who are aligned to political parties across the board.”

Keith Diaz, president of Pan Trinbago Inc, said on Tuesday: “I wish to state very clearly that the economic situation in the country is faced by all Trinbagonians; all of us. In the pan movement we will try and work with whatever allocation is given to us by government for the 2017 National Panorama competition.

“We would also like to state in other areas we will like to have continued dialogue with government in plans that Pan Trinbago has to carry the movement forward. We are a part of this nation and we would like to be heard as I think that we also have valuable suggestions that will redound beneficial to the entire national community. The pan factory is one of the projects that we know can boost business in our beloved country, creating employment for many.”

Diaz added: “I hope to meet with the Culture Minister soon to discuss when Pan Trinbago will get any outstanding moneys so that we will be able to facilitate the payment of outstanding stipends to pan people.”

On Wednesday, National Carnival Commission chairman Kenny de Silva said: “This year’s budget is reflective of what we got from the last budget, with a difference of about $12M-$15M less. For 2016, we got a revised estimate of $230,619,000 and for 2017 we are getting $168,500,000. Though we are working with less money, the SIGs will get exactly what they received for Carnival 2016.

“In terms of goods and services, the NCC received approx $15M. Our challenge is that we will have to negotiate with suppliers for goods and services for Carnival 2017 and hope to get their understanding that this is what we have. I am confident that they will assist us as most of them are long serving suppliers for carnival.

We will initiate an attractive marketing thrust to get the corporate community more on board in 2017 which will assist in any shortfall we receive. I don’t see it a major challenge.

“I wish to emphasise that the SIGs will receive the same money they received for 2016 Carnival.”

Larry Denalli, president of the National Parang Association of T&T (NPATT), having just released the 2016 National Parang Festival schedule, was blunt in his response about receiving any government subvention for his association. He said: “We haven't received any subvention or grants from the culture ministry. We have pledges from corporate sponsors for the 2016 parang season. We have applied to government for a grant and are expecting a subvention but don’t know when we will get it. The last year we received a subvention was in 2014 so now the government has two outstanding ones for NPATT.”

Lutalo Masimba (Bro Resistance), head of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) said last Monday: “Tuco is accustomed to cuts. We received cuts in our subvention for the past few years, so if we get cut for 2017 you can’t get blood.

“What we are very concerned about though is the framewok with which we operate. We are concerned about the long overdue acquisition of 50 per cent of local content on the national airwaves; have been lobbying for our broadcast license since 1999 and we have a serious concern about the scarcity of performance spaces nationwide. These things are more critical than cuts in a budget and allocations for carnival.

“Overall, Tuco finds it extremely sad that on one hand the government is talking diversification to boost the nation’s GDP and the development of the creative industries and on the other is cutting the funding. This will stifle the economic activity of the creative arts, and carnival in particular.”

Noble Douglas Dance Company Inc (NDDC) staged its 2016 season—Woman—last weekend at Queen’s Hall and what a spectacular presentation of dance it turned out to be. With packed houses in attendance each evening, the seven-item programme kept patrons riveted to their seats.

The programme opened appropriately with As the Sun Rises, a 2011 Noble Douglas piece which celebrated J’Ouvert, to the lively music of Etienne Charles’ J’Ouvert. The full company performed this item, which featured Dave Williams as Dame Lorraine and Charlene Rollock as Baby Doll. On Sunday night, Williams’ characterisation touched the funny bones of the children and young people in the house.

With one of its three principal dancers injured on opening night, the trio for 3 Women became a duet featuring Louanna Martin and Dominique Doyle. Choreographed by Kevin Jack, the dance featured the music of Kehembe Eichelberger and Gabriel Thorn.

The Megan Rose Navarro-choreographed Surge, performed to Heinali’s Sway, Sway, was also done by the company with a duet by Kwasi Romero and Mario Wilson.

Threshold, created by popular Zumba instructor Allan Belfour last year, was performed in three parts. With Mario Wilson and Ashelle Edwards as its principal dancers, Threshold was of the strongest pieces on the programme. Its costuming, by Ronald Guy, and lighting, by Celia Wells, were superb, while its choreography was intense and intricate.

After a 20-minute intermission, another intense piece was performed by an all-female cast. The title item, Woman, was choreographed by veteran dancer Heather Henderson-Gordon and portrayed the trials and tribulations women endure internationally. Energising this item was Hans Zimmer’s The Last Samurai soundtrack suite, an epic movie which starred Tom Cruise.

5 for 2, a nostalgic tribute to Douglas, with choreography by Balfour, was lively, performed by Charlene Harris and Balfour to the music of Dave Brubeck’s Take Five.

The programme’s finale Echoes of Lyfe was vibrant and pulsating. Choreographed last year by Delton Frank, this item was dedicated to the late Donald Junior Noel, one of this country’s foremost drummers who worked with the NDDC. With a quintet of drummers that included Everald “Redman” Watson and Wayne “Lion” Osouna providing musical accompaniment, this was one of the best choreographed dances I’ve seen since the passing of Astor Johnson. 

Though highlighting traditional African dance forms from Nigeria and Ghana, Echoes of Lyfe also incorporated interpretive modern dance inserts, assuring its overwhelming impact. The performers were washed in thunderous applause from an appreciative audience. This item was a fitting way to bring the curtain down on what was a beautiful evening of dance. For curtain call, Douglas and her choreographers, as well as the dancers, were presented with floral tributes.

Amongst the experts contributing to the success of Woman were Merylle Mahabir (designer); Todd Hill (stage manager); Franklyn Agarrat (sound design); and Yvonne Thomas (wardrobe).

Although it’s long overdue, living steelband icon Anthony Williams was bestowed an Honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt) from the University of the West Indies last Saturday, at the St Augustine Campus of the UWI.

The founder of North Stars Steel Orchestra of St James, the band to win the first Panorama championship back in 1963, and the inventor of the Spider Web pan, Williams has been revered by colleagues and the public for more than half century for his innovations in the national instrument and his unique arrangements on pan. 

In 1992, Williams received the Chaconia Medal (Gold) and in 2008, he received the Order of the Republic of T&T, the nation’s highest award. More recently he also received awards from the producers of the St James WeBeat Live and Woodbrook/St James Community Association.

In related news, the management of Caribbean Airlines Invaders Steel Orchestra held true to their word to deliver the Invaders 75th Anniversary Awards to two of the orchestra’s founding members: Elliot “Ellie” Mannette in Osage, West Virginia and Emmanuel “Cobojack” Riley in Brooklyn, New York.

Desiree Myers, music co-ordinator and Michael Dinchong, managing director, travelled to New York courtesy the band’s sponsor, Caribbean Airlines, to make these presentations.

Friends and students of the Mannette Music Instruments Workshop in West Virginia hosted a special reception, where Dinchong presented Mannette with the band’s award in recognition of his historical contribution towards the formation of the legendary Woodbrook steelband. Mannette also received a copy of the Invaders’ history book entitled Invaders Steel Orchestra: The history of a legendary T&T Steelband by Dr Jeannine Remy and Ray Funk.

In his presentation speech, Dinchong remarked that nine years ago the government of T&T declared 147 Tragarete Road, Woodbrook, a national heritage site, and that 147 Tragarete Road has been the untenured home of Invaders since its birth in 1940. 

“It was the home of Ellie Mannette and the sacred grounds where many of his inspirations bore fruit under the famous ‘breadfruit tree’,” said Dinchong. 

He added: “This declaration in essence immortalises Invaders Steel Orchestra. It also immortalises the name Ellie Mannette.” 

Mannette expressed his sentiments of appreciation and was moved by the management’s effort to deliver the award to him personally.

In Brooklyn, the reception for Riley was organised by the Invaders’ New York Elders. Upon receiving his award from Myers, Riley commended the band’s management for recognising his contribution at this milestone in  the band’s history and stated that it was an honour to receive the 75th Anniversary Award. 

Ronald Dennis and Terrance Hinds, two of Invaders’ Elders residing in New York, also received their 75th Anniversary Certificate of Appreciation from Myers. The band’s management has expressed thanks to Caribbean Airlines for its support in making these presentations a reality.

To end on a sad note, the steelband fraternity has lost another one of its stalwarts. Alfred “Sacks” Mayers departed this life at the age of 82 on Saturday.

He was a bamboo to pan veteran and was the first person to play a triple second tuned by Lincoln Delgado Noel, and is credited with leading the first steelband to Guyana in the late 40s. He was the leader of the Red Army Steelband in the 40s and the Merry Makers Steelband before starting Pandigenous, and had been playing with the band up to the time of his passing. 

Mayers’ pan-playing skills saw him visiting many countries, including Argentina. One of the first pan musicians to perform on a cruise ship, Mayers was a recipient of the Humming Bird Medal of Merit (Bronze) for his contribution to steelpan culture. He was also recognised by Pan Trinbago for his dedication and service to the instrument and movement.

Mayers will be laid to rest after a funeral service at Clark & Battoo Funeral Chapel, Tragerate Road, Port-of-Spain, tomorrow, at 8:30 am. Pan Trinbago Inc has extended its condolences to the family and friends of Mayers.

Calypso is also mourning a loss with the passing of calypsonian Gaston "Lord Smiley" Nunes on Monday at his home at Baird Street, Carenage. 

This Robin sings sweetly
Juliet Robin will be having her annual Christmas Concert at Kaiso Blues Cafe in Newtown on Saturday, November 5 and showtime is 8 pm. Robin’s last concert was her birthday gig at which she gave 17 gifts to people who had a birthday around the same time, and there was her huge birthday cake that everyone got to share.

This time Robin is not holding back and has indicated that it is Christmas, so you never know what can happen. She will be performing her new parang soca song—Happy Business. She composed the lyrics and melody, with music, arrangement, production and mastering by Brian Mitchell, owner of Black Spear Music Studio.

Robin has been very busy in the studio working on several new releases for Carnival 2017 along with Druce Jag Joseph at Black Spear Music Studio. She is also working on releases for summer and Christmas 2017. 

For her November 5 concert, Robin has the same lineup of musicians who will be performing with her, including Sean Friday (bass); Tamba Gwindi (percussion); Richard Joseph (drums); Derek Cadogan (keyboards). The newest addition will be guitarist James Jessy Joseph. There will also be exciting surprise guests. Robin insists that people walk with comfortable shoes to dance in. She says guests will be treated to some exciting popular covers of Christmas songs which she has re-arranged, and will also hear some of her original songs.

MORE INFO: Admission is $100 in advance and $120 at the door. For more information, call 723-8883. 

She is a happy wanderer
Leah Skeete, better known as DEZii, is a 28-year-old singer/songwriter who launched her first EP (Wanderer), a SupaYouth production (Joshua Salcedo), last Saturday night at Kaiso Blues Cafe.

This talented young lady has been singing for 17 years in everything from school to church choirs, and from recording studios to stages in Los Angeles and Nigeria. In 2007, she represented T&T at the World Championships Of Performing Arts in Burbank, California. In 2010, DEZii held her first concert and has held one every year since. 

DEZii’s The Wanderer Tour will be held at various venues across Trinidad with its first stop being at The Rush (formerly, Beveca) on November 2, followed by a performance on November 11 at Fiesta Plaza, Movietowne, Port-of-Spain. A date is yet to be confirmed for the finale of The Wanderer Tour at the Big Black Box in Woodbrook.

Artistes billed for The Wanderer Tour include Nailah Blackman; Aaron Ifill; LA Rose (Rosezanna Hernandez Winchester); Tehilla Jones; Mya Scott; Kyle Richardson; Nebula 868; Mark Hardy (Marcus Braveboy) and Yung Rudd (Isaac Rudder); John John (John Francis); and Greg B (Gregory Burris) and Jose Freedom, accompanied by Mikhail Salcedo (pan), Joshua Salcedo (drums) and Darion Dennis (bass).

Also signed to perform are Leigh Tang Wing (keyboards); Anna Roberts (violin); Kemi Ible (guitar); Charlton Alfonso (bass); D'Andre Wilson (bass); and, Adrian Kong (saxophone). 

Dezii is described as “versatile and has a mixed reperteroire of jazz-fusion, reggae, pop, EDM and R&B music.” 

Last Tuesday, Brian Mac Farlane hosted an online Facebook Heritage Talk to respond to detractors of his Carnival 2017 mas presentation Cazabon: The Art of Living and the furore one of its 14 sections has caused on social media. Mac Farlane announced the withdrawal of the offending section—La Belle Madame and Garcon de la Maison (The Pretty Lady and the Houseboy)—from the presentation.

Many of the commentators claim that the depiction, designed by Mac Farlane, is racist. This week, spoken word artiste/actor Muhammad Muwakil said: “If I felt there was great substance behind the concept and portrayal, then I would not have a problem with it. Mas has always been a provocative thing. But it has never been provocation for the sake of provocation. 

“There are instruments that we have created, such as double entendre and masking, that we use to get our revolutionary messages across. In my opinion, this in no way embodies any of that. 

“This seems to me to be a misrepresentation of the plantation experience of the African enslaved. If not that, then it is a glorification of the skewed relationship that would have developed through centuries of mental conditioning that would have been deployed specifically to bend the African psyche to the will of the oppressor.”

Cazabon: The Art of Living is supposed to be a tribute to 19th century artist Michel-Jean Cazabon and the fashion and architecture of the period, and La Belle Madame and Garcon de la Maison (The Pretty Lady and the Houseboy) portrayed a white woman of the late 1800s and a black house servant. 

About the section, Muwakil added: “It is an insult and an affront to the work of such as people as Eintou Springer, Leroi Clarke, Makandal Daaga, Ella Andall, and all of the elders who have laboured to bring our consciousness to the point that we find ourselves now, in which we should be able to properly and thoroughly interrogate our history in a manner designed to move us forward, and not retard us as a people.”

The leading authority on Michel-Jean Cazabon, architect Geoffrey MacLean, said: “Mac Farlane’s costumes are portrayed in the image of the Magnificent Seven, edifices that were constructed after Cazabon died, at least 20 years after his passing. So one looks at the costumes as displays in the context of the early 20th century.” He added: “The whiteness of the band, the use of the colour, is misleading in terms of the reference to Cazabon. His paintings were full of colour.”

MacLean continued: “Cazabon didn’t paint portraits of the social class in the context of that environment that seems to be portrayed by Mac Farlane’s band. He certainly did formal portraits of the estate owners and the everyday working- and middle-class Trinidadians. In his work you can see images of both the creole and East Indian citizenry, whom Cazabon portrayed with tremendous elegance.”

About the artist who died of a heart attack in 1888 as a disillusioned and depressed man, MacLean said: “There is a certain amount of criticism in Cazabon’s work that he didn’t portray Trinidad in perhaps its reality; he romanticised. This is arguable, remembering his whole philosophy came from the French landscape movement which was a romantic movement in the development of art in Europe at the time.

“It is unfortunate that this whole thing has backfired on Cazabon, regardless that he did more to portray Trinidad’s landscape and people of that era than any 19th century artist. Of course there’s going to be an argument where that is concerned, especially in comparison to Richard Bridgens. These two men were complete opposites, in that Bridgens portrayed slavery in a very negative way which may well have been true. Cazabon, on the other hand, portrayed the workers of Trinidad in a very positive light.”

At Tuesday’s online Facebook Heritage Talk, Mac Farlane said: “When I embarked on this production, I made an effort to invite designers of fashion and mas to share in the creative process that has been more than just a career to all of us.

“Similarly, the naming of the presentation, Cazabon: The Art of Living, is based on the amazing architecture of the late 1800s and early 1900s which exists up to this day in communities such as Belmont, East Port-of-Spain, Woodbrook, in the east of Trinidad, across the Central plains and parts of Tobago, in addition to the more recognised spaces such as the Magnificent 7.”

He added: “While I want to always ensure that I accurately reflect our incredibly multidimensional history, I understand that there is still a lot for me to explore, to unearth, to unlearn and to learn. My intention was never to offend anyone, or to come across as ignorant of our truth, or to idealise insensitivity. It was to depict the clothing of the time. 

“However, I understand how and why it hurt some of us. And it is with this realisation that I have made the decision to not move forward with this particular section from the 2017 presentation. I am deeply, deeply sorry for the pain that I have caused. 

“In my heart, I feel that the production of Cazabon: The Art of Living holds power for us as a nation and as a people free to learn, discuss and prosper. 

“I welcome the healthy debate, because it can lead to a deeper understanding of our growth as a connected people. Certainly, I have learned a lot from this experience, for which I am thankful. 

“I can only hope these conversations build us up to listen to each other, journey with our fellow citizen, act as messengers of change and educate future generations as to the richness and diverse nature of our identity and heritage.”

Hosted by Wendell Constantine, Friday night’s unveiling of the band’s costumes, held at The Courtyard of Queen’s Royal College in St Clair, was preceded by brief addresses by Citizens for Conservation president Rudylynn Roberts, National Trust of T&T deputy chairman Margaret McDowall and Art Society of T&T president Clayton De Freitas. The trio complimented Mac Farlane for drawing attention to the need for restoring and maintaining heritage buildings and sites nationwide.

Cazabon—The Art of Living at The Courtyard will now comprise 13 sections, designed by several of T&T’s top designers including Heather Jones, Sonia Mack, Diane Hunt, Peter Elias, Claudia Pegus and Dhisha Veenu Moorjani of House of Jaipur. Also on the design team are UTT graduates Adrian Foster, Harvey Robertson and Kaleen Sanois.

Dannilian Motilal is on a winning streak having captured not just the Miss Divali Canada title but also the NCIC Miss Divali Nagar 2016 crown on October 27.

Motilal, 19, born and raised in Canada of Trinidadian heritage, is a pharmaceutical chemistry student at the University of Ontario, Institute of Technology. The daughter of Dianne and Rolan Motilal of Gopie Trace, Penal, also copped the Miss Photogenic title, chosen online and by judges, as well as the People’s Choice Award, determined by a ballot voting system at the venue. 

Not only did thousands of deyas light up the Nagar site in Chaguanas all of last week but the queen entrants from across the globe, including Canada, United States, Jamaica, Belize and Suriname, radiated the venue, led by Leanne Diane Dookie. Several dignitaries and prominent public figures attended the nine-day event, including President Carmona and his wife Reema, PM Dr Keith Rowley, Opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Olympic medallist Keshorn Walcott, boxing champion Ria Ramnarine and cricketer Daren Ganga. 

Motilal was selected by promoter Vashtie Doorga, CEO of Doorga Entertainment, as she was appointed by NCIC PRO Surujdeo Mangaroo, to select a delegate to represent Canada. Doorga, before returning to Canada, extended special thanks to all who assisted her including Rajmani Ram of Epic Entertainment, South Team Construction Company Ltd, Mohammed Book Store, B and M Construction, Links Electrical, G Boochoon and Sons and Maytec Electrical Ltd.

Contestants were judged based on three categories; sari, talent and an interview. Parading in a sari made of pure georgette and pure varanasi chiffon, Motilal’s outfit was completed with embroidery, put together by artisans from the villages of Farrukhabad, India. The embroidery was a mixture of zardosi (light and antique gold metallic thread) and kundans (flat silver beads). 

Motilal, who has been dancing since the age of four, performed a classical dance item titled Mere Dholna. She recently opened her own dance school (DevDan Dance Academy) and has performed at many functions in Canada including the 2015 Pan Am Games, and for the T&T Consulate General of T&T. 

Motilal is trained in classical, Bollywood, and Bharatanatyam styles of dance and is also a musician, versatile in playing the harmonium, and is training in mastering the tabla. For the past four years, Motilal has been modelling and auditioning with her agency—Peace Management. She also has her own makeup business (Vanity Makeup Artistry) where she teaches techniques about makeup.

Carnival brand The Lost Tribe continues its series of Front Yard Film screenings with The Calypso Rose Effect showcasing Pascale Obolo’s Calypso Rose: The Lioness of the Jungle this evening, from 7 pm at Siegert Square, Woodbrook.

In a realse, Lost Tribe stated: "Calypso Rose is an ambassador of Caribbean music, a living legend, a charismatic character, the uncontested diva of calypso music.  Paris, New York, Trinidad, Tobago, back to Africa, in each place we learn a little more about the many faces and facets of her life. It is a film not only about memory, the exchange and discovery of world cultures, but also the journey of a militant and authentic woman, an Afro-Caribbean soul, an exemplary artise, far from the glitz and glitter, at the dawn of her life."

The cultural evening also features performances by The National Steel Symphony Orchestra (NSSO), conducted by Akua Leith. The NSSO boasts a compliment of 23 of T&T’s finest, music-literate pan musicians.

The evening will end with the dynamic musical force that is Tiefhead, a collaborative effort with musicians and producers to expand the view of global dance music to the local listener. The mantra of one vibe-many dancefloors rings true with chief curators, AndyHimself & Channel 13.

AndyHimself is a producer/DJ with local roots who's produced and DJed for international record labels out of the UK and Mediterranean.  Channel 13 wears many hats and is a sound curator/DJ with experience in different creative and promotional fields.

Traffikliters to host Parang Luncheon
Traffikliters Association will hold its 2016 fund-raiser, a Parang Luncheon, at Green Meadows, Santa Cruz on Sunday November 6. 

“We want to try something different this time,” said the group’s president Ian Corbie, “We have had dinners for the past eight years, it’s time for something new and it’s close to the Christmas season, hence a Parang Luncheon.” 

Appearing will be at least two parang bands -  Amandes de Paranda and Country Mile. There will be, as well, music supplied by a deejay and lots of food and the MC would be Brian Reyes. Several door prizes will be up for grabs. Tickets cost $300 each.

Recently, the Association held its Annual General Meeting at the home of secretary Joan Khelawan on St John Road, St Augustine and re-elected Corbie to serve his second term at the helm. Also elected were Donna Francis (vice president); Joan Khelawan (secretary); Clarence Homer (treasurer); and, Mona Akal (PRO). Trustees are Carlos Landeau and Ruby Kueng Fatt, with Peter Dash and Andrew Dukhie being directors.

The group, which consists of ex-workers of the traffic department of the defunct BWIA, was formed in 2008, and is known for its charity work in many areas.

Traffikliters continues to live up to its motto, Keeping the Light Burning, doing charity work with its annual pre-Mothers’ Day function which features modelling and Karaoke. Previous donations have also been made to the Cancer Society, Amica House, and Servol.

Joey Lewis remembered
Hardly a day goes by that the music of the late “Pal” Joey Lewis is not heard on the airwaves. For more than six decades Lewis gave T&T and the world beautiful music, until his passing on Carnival Sunday 2016, on February 8. He will be remembered on Sunday, when his widow Julia, members of his orchestra and Gonzales United Youth Movement (GUYM)—which comprises his neighbours and residents of the community—host Pal Joey Lewis Celebration: de Birthplace, de Man and his Music at Escallier AC Primary School, Gonzales, from 10.30 am.

This week, Lewis’ widow told Pulse: “The purpose of this event is to bring our community together to highlight the positive contribution that Joey Lewis has made. It will be used as a catalyst to bring the residents together for a day of fun and entertainment. Moreso, it will highlight the wealth of talent within the community and environs as most of the entertainers are either residents or affiliated with the community.”

The day’s activities include a street parade through the Gonzales community, the Joey Lewis round robin football competition and live entertainment. The cast of performers includes the Pal Joey Lewis Orch, bpTT Renegades, Sapophonics and Sheikers steel orchestras, Chris “Tambu” Herbert, Duane O’Connor, Denise Belfon, Dance Gulston, Tommy Joseph and others.

Any proceeds from this event will go towards the Joey and Judy Lewis Foundation, where some of the main objectives include the provision of partial scholarships to individuals pursuing music/performing arts, shelter and counselling service for displaced victims of domestic violence and their children.

“We are celebrating the life and contribution of our very own Joey Lewis while keeping alive his dream that our community must be united and used as a beacon for other communities nationwide.”

For more information call  Julia “Judy” Lewis (366 3242/623 7572) or Marlon Small (704 9783).

A packed Little Carib Theatre in Woodbrook participated fully last Saturday night when parang soca queen Marcia Miranda staged her much anticipated On Stage concert. Beside getting stout support from her mother and sister Marguerite, Marcia was also supported in this venture by her former colleagues, including stewardesses and pilots at BWIA.

On Stage, which was postponed from an earlier date because Miranda was struck down with a strep throat, began promptly at its advertised start time: 8 pm. Patrons were welcomed to the venue by live parang music by Los Canarios and complimentary Meukow cognac shots. The actual programme was opened by radio personality Mark Anthony Phillips, and Miranda’s mother, Angela, doing an invocation.

Attired in her BWIA uniform, Miranda performed Fly Girl Horrors, one of the calypsoes she won a BWIA calypso competition with in the 80s. As she exited the stage for a quick change, she was replaced by Kevon Carter. The handsome vocalist had the women in house swooning as he rendered Love’s for Real, Who’s Holding Donna Now, All This Love and Give Love at Christmas, and winning tumultuous applause.

Miranda made her second appearance, this time looking like she was emerging from the pages of Vogue, all sexy in a stunning, close-fitting, white floor-length gown. Her set included Bill Withers’ Aint No Sunshine, Leo Sayer’s When I Need You and a cover of Bob Marley’s reggae hit Stir It Up. It was at this juncture that it became obvious of how well prepared and rehearsed was the accompanying band Overdrive under the direction of keyboardist Jason Dasent. They simply aced the night’s music.

For another wardrobe change, enter former H2O Phlo vocalist Jason “Fridge” Seecharan, and he sang Lennox Gray’s ’Round my Christmas Tree and Laureston Special’s What Love Should Be. He was then joined by Miranda to sing Never Knew Love Like This Before, made popular in 1980 by Stephanie Mills. 

Miranda went solo for Tina Turner’s Private Dancer and What’s Love Gotta Do With It. She was then joined by Ashley Arismandez & The Sliders for one of the night’s audience participatory items as she invited patrons to join them on stage to perform The Electric Slide, a routine made popular since 1976.

Excitement had risen to such a high that intermission was called, a break which lasted over half hour as past BWIA colleagues mingled and chatted in the Little Carib foyer. Upon resumption, the show again took off at high altitude with Miranda doing a parang soca segment that included her hits like Gimme Love, Bring Out the Ham, Thiefing Parang Band, Letter to Mama and Cocoa Panyol.

Given a cameo as Miranda did another wardrobe change, Overdrive proved why the aggregation is so aptly named playing It’s Christmas. Dasent was ably supported by guitarist Ian Joseph, drummer Richard Millien and percussionist Odilia Garcia.

Miranda returned in a floral ensemble to do a 13-song retro calypso finale which included popular tunes like Jean & Dinah, Last Train to San Fernando, My Pussin, Fire Fire, Mas in May, The Road, Mathilda, Miss Tourist and The Lizard. As expected the entire audience was of full voice as patrons joined Miranda with every refrain. 

She brought the curtain down on a night of euphoric entertainment by singing Explainer’s Lorraine, bringing patrons to their feet to dance and sing the calypso’s catchy refrain.

As patrons exited the venue they were unanimous in endorsing On Stage as one of the most entertaining productions they had attended. Full credit goes to Audrey Perreira, Miranda’s manager and the show’s co-ordinator, and her sister Marguerite who not only assisted in its planning but joined Garcia providing percussion assistance in Overdrive.

One departing patron was overheard saying: “The musicality was outstanding,” while Josephine Torrel concurred and said: “Thank you for the experience and a job well done. The band was great and the dancers appropriately enhanced your product with their lively, pleasant and varied contribution.”

Desmond Fernando also commented: “It was a well thought out and professionally presented programme which ran as a well-oiled machine, keeping everyone educated, informed and inspired. You are the best; definitely international material.”

Brent Gerard Joel said: “Seeing her past videos made me wax nostalgic and I was really moved by her effort. I must have been the only one wearing pink as a subtle reminder that she overcame cancer and looks amazing today. When I saw her in the old Bwee uniform I could have sent her on a plane right now.”

But, Lisa Ghany summed up the night’s emotions best when she said: “Please give us a repeat Marcia Miranda.”

Clive “Zanda” Alexander, pioneer of extempo/kaiso jazz music is largely a self-taught composer/improvisor, pianist who has gained recognition at home, in the Caribbean and internationally. Zanda, as he is known internationally, recently returned from a visit to South Africa primarily to see his sons (Tshipi and Zolani) and four grandchildren, spending almost four months there. “It was a spiritual and phenomenal experience,” said Zanda. 

“In terms of reuniting with where we came from as a people and to see what South Africa has achieved coming out of apartheid. In 25 years, what they have accomplished and the opportunities of what they were denied are astounding. As a people they are aggressive and in positive pursuit of their aspirations.”

Zanda’s elder son Tshipi is married to the daughter of a Zulu tribal chief (Chief Musa) and he was able to have the rare opportunity of meeting the village elders. He observed the tribal structure first hand and was impressed by how they mitigate problems. 

Said Zanda: “I was astounded by the music and dance. I have always wanted to return to my Motherland and meet the Zulu elders fully clothed. The elders instructed me to remove my shoes and be barefoot—only then would I be truly connected to ‘the Motherland,’” said Zanda.

Zanda, now 77, was also blown away by the culture and his interest in music was fuelled by the experience.

He said: “My expectation was to see how the music of South Africa had evolved from their culture of Zulu and Xhosa music. I was surprised to see that there was a great influence of Hip Hop, R&B and music from West Africa. When I reflected I realised that Kaiso Jazz, which the late Schofield Pilgrim, Michael Boothman and myself pioneered, was the right direction in terms of developing our music emerging from the roots of extempore calypso. This demonstrates the power of Western music and shows how influential it is globally.”

Aside from meeting internationally renowned South African musician Hugh Masekela, Zanda also met a number of highly acclaimed musicians. “I didn’t meet or see many wind instrumentalists there,” said Zanda. “This is a problem that we also have in Trinidad. UWI and UTT would be well advised to have courses to attract more young people who wish to become proficient playing wind instruments.”

During his stay, Zanda was interviewed on South African radio and when he played his two CDs (Clive Zanda is Here with Dat Kinda Ting and Pantastic Visions Revisited), people were very eager and thirsty for this type of music.

Zanda said: “Our music is loved in South Africa and the people were asking how come more of T&T’s music is not marketed there. Olatunji Yearwood’s hit song Ola is very popular in South Africa. Interestingly, the South Africans said that the word ‘Ola’ is not African but Brazilian. They were also very impressed by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe’s music and described his music as ‘a monster’.”

As a child of Siparia, Zanda can be considered a music prodigy, always creating something or the other as well. He started making music on self-made cardboard, miniature bongos at age ten beating out calypso rhythms, scatting and composing lines on top of the rhythms. At age 15, Zanda began classical piano lessons with Sybil Joseph in Siparia. After a couple of lessons, up to grade one, he started extemporising on the piano, incorporating some of what was learnt with his own tunes. Joseph gave up on him and left him alone to do so. 

At a young age, Zanda began hanging out with several local combos and dance bands in jam sessions. Not long after Zanda got an opportunity to sit-in with some top local combos mainly playing bongos and singing some of his compositions. 

However, it was not until the age of 20 he migrated to England primarily to pursue studies in architecture because the future in music was considered not lucrative. But music was always in his head and because of the nature of architecture, being considered “frozen music,” he was able to study and combine both disciplines successfully.

It was during his stay in England that Zanda had his earliest encounters with live and direct Jazz music. Impressed by how much music a jazz trio could generate, he seriously immersed himself into the genre of jazz and subsequently commenced intense private lessons with well known British Composer Michael Grant. 

Soon after this he formed his own combo experimenting with fusing calypso elements with Jazz which in Zanda’s perception were musical siblings. Successfully pursuing his academics as an architect and playing music at nights. 

The Dez Alex Combo, as his group was called, performed regularly at the London Pigalle night club doing curtain calls for such acts as Shirley Bassey, Matt Monroe and Sammy Davis Jnr.

On his return to Trinidad, the Zanda Gayap Extempo/Kaiso Jazz Workshop was established, in association with the Queen’s Royal College (QRC) Jazz workshop under the direction of school teacher, musician Schofield Pilgrim, researching and experimenting with the concept of Extempo/Kaiso Jazz which he continued to pioneer up to this day.

This marriage was the nucleus for this unique genre of music spawning outstanding musicians like Michael Georges, Michael “Toby” Tobas, Beverly “Muthadi” Thomas, Luther Francois, Michael Boothman, Rafael Robertson, Ron Reid, Etienne Charles and Wayne “Barney” Bonaparte.

Zanda said: “I was saddened not just by Schofield’s death but also when he died there was no music created by him to be played either on the radio or at his funeral. At the time, I thought we must begin to document the music we create. It is why I decided to document all my music for the benefit of future generations.”

It has been some years that Zanda has been away from the mainstream music stage locally. He explained: “I have been documenting my Kaiso Jazz compositions  for the purpose of leaving behind a legacy for my children and the community at large. When I pass on I hope to also control the music from my grave. The classical composers did this and that is why they are still alive through their music.” 

In 1975, Zanda visited the USA and attended lecture demonstrations in jazz improvisations at Rutgers University under the direction of Professor Chris White (a bassist of Trinidadian descent). He was awarded a Certificate in Jazz improvisation from Rutgers. While in the States he formed a combo which included well known New York-based musicians such as Dunmore Louis Haynes known for his drumming with the Oscar Peterson Trio; soprano saxophonist Charlie Davis; trumpeter Tex Allen; and, Trinidadian born bassist David “Happy” Williams.

Zanda’s group performed a series of concerts at the East Harlem Cultural Center playing original calypso jazz compositions and sharing the bill with another of his well loved, the Archie Shepp Quintet. Zanda has also appeared at all major Caribbean Jazz festivals, the last being St Lucia in 1994, De Mora Theatre in Toronto Pan Jazz Festival and the T&T Jazz festivals to name a few. Having established himself as composer, improviser, pianist, his fans expects nothing short of his innovative interpretations of calypso and jazz standards.

There is no question that Zanda is a national treasure and musical ambassador for the Caribbean who believes that music is the intercessor for peace in the world. He is also committed passing on knowledge to the youth, who are the future and is in the process of producing videos and documenting literature as part of the holistic commitment to the development of the art of Extempo/Kaiso Jazz.

Zanda’s last major performance was a fund-raiser at Central Bank Auditorium for young Berklee College freshman Joshua Joseph. He said: “I believing in mentoring the young musicians. Another important collaboration I did was with Louis Nurse at his concert.” 

In closing, asked what exactly is Kaiso Jazz, Zanda replied: “for me Kaiso Jazz is the creative hybrid product deep rooted in our ancestral consciousness of the drum, the riddim of life, and our multi cultural heritage.”

INFO

Clive “Zanda” Alexander will be back on stage on November 18 when Ethnic Jazz Club stages KaiSocA@theJazzStudio at The Jazz Studio, 51 Cornelio Street, Woodbrook. Zanda will be performing with Richard Joseph (drums), Russell Durity (bass) and Natasha Joseph (pans). 

Advance tickets will be available for purchase at the studio on November 15 and 17 between 11 am and 5.30 pm at the Studio. Patrons are asked to note that Zanda has chosen to present his sets at 8pm and 10pm.

Former National Calypso Monarch Cro Cro has made it to the final of the 60th Anniversary Nation Building Calypso Monarch Competition being staged by the People’s National Movement (PNM) on November 19, at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain. 

Also included among the dozen finalists, revealed at a media conference, held last Monday at Balisier House, are other past national monarchs Duane O’Connor and Karene Asche, and former national queens Twiggy, Karen Eccles and Lady Wonder. 

The 12 finalists will be competing for over $200,000 worth of cash and prizes and of course bragging rights. According to People’s National Movement Deputy Political Leader, Joan Yuille-Williams: “It was like 60 for 60. We are extremely pleased by the response of the public in such a short space of time.” 

She added: “Imagine in just two weeks many of them wrote and recorded new music. It was overwhelming.” 

An exciting feature of the competition is the second song category where the finalists are required to perform a vintage Social/Political Commentary calypso. 

Cro Cro has been charged to perform Zandolee’s Man Family, while Asche chose Chalkdust’s Let the Jackass Bray. O’Connor picked Sparrow’s Pay as You Earn and De Mighty Trini got Bro Marvin’s Jahaji Bhai.

Over the past year the PNM has been celebrating its 60th anniversary with a number of activities including multireligious events, constituency conferences, the Heliconia Foundation’s 60 Years Through Art, a family day in Tobago, and an exhibition at Nalis.

Balisier House has also been refitted as a museum of sorts, with historical images depicting the contribution of the party to the framing and development of the country,  from Independence to today. 

The 12 finalists were chosen from a pool of 68 submissions—artistes who submitted songs for consideration by an independent panel of judges. On the night of the competition, each contestant will sing two songs—a nation building song which some of them may have written for the event, and a vintage social-political commentary song only made known to them when they drew for positions. 

There was much excitement at the live draw for the vintage social-political commentary song, as some of the calypsonians would not have even been born when these songs were hits on the local airwaves. 

While some calypsonians expressed glee, others stated that they were anxious to get started on learning the words and preparing their interpretation of their selected song. 

There was a collective sigh of relief when the competitors learned that they would be presented with the lyrics and a CD with a copy of their selected vintage Social/Political Commentary song. 

Yuille-Williams, in thanking the 68 calypsonians and songwriters who entered, indicated that each of them will receive a souvenir of the 60th anniversary in recognition of their contribution to the art form. She said she was delighted by the response and gained respect for the calypsonian when, as a teacher, she relied heavily on calypsoes to map the history of T&T for her students. 

Tickets for the PNM’s 60th Anniversary Calypso Competition are available at Cleve’s, Frederick Street; Crosby’s, St James; San Fernando East Constituency Office; and Balisier House. 

In other calypso news, on Sunday, Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (Tuco) will hold its 14th Annual General Meeting, at NUGFW Conference Hall, Upper Henry Street, Port-of-Spain, at 10 am

PNM 60th Anniversary Nation Building Calypso Monarch Competition – The Finalists:

• Lady Wonder (Dianne Hendrickson)
• Michelle Henry
• Skatie (Carlos James)
• De Might Trini (Robert Elias)
• Karen Eccles
• Cro Cro (Weston Rawlins)
• Sekon Alves
• Gary Cordner
• Duane O’Connor
• Karene Asche
• Twiggy (Ann Marie Parks Kojo)
• Tigress (Joanne Rowley)

QRC celebrates 
The Queen’s Royal College (QRC) Old Boys’ Association (OBA) will host its annual dinner at the college, Hayes Street, St Clair, tomorrow evening. The event will commence at 6 pm with a cocktail reception at the gymnasium, followed by dinner at 7 pm in the College’s courtyard. 

The OBA dinner is a celebration of the brotherhood that typifies QRC life and is an opportunity for all past students to celebrate the camaraderie which has been central to the ethos of QRC across generations. 

This year’s dinner will also mark the 82nd anniversary of the OBA as well as the 157th anniversary of Queen’s Royal College. The event includes the induction of Derek Faria as an honorary member of the OBA, in recognition of his contributions to the QRC community. 

In other news coming out of QRC, the OBA, PTA and management team of the college will be hosting the fourth edition of Fete Royal, on February 11, 2017 from 6 pm to 1 am. 

Lovin’ Carnival is the theme for 2017, and the Fete Committee promises a great event, with a wider array of food from the usual food providers. Organisers said that bar options will be unique and creative in keeping with the theme, and premium brands will be served throughout the night.

They added that the decor will ensure that patrons feel the love of Valentine’s Day. The organisers said the music from KI the Band, Destra Garcia and Bakanal, Kes the Band and Roy Cape All Stars featuring Blaxx and Ricardo Drue DJ Alicia D Duchess, will ensure the venue is filled with the vibrant new music of Carnival 2017. 

Security is also a priority for the organisers. There will be limited parking at secured parking lots around the venue. Tickets are on sale now with an early bird special of $750 each until December 31 or while stock last. Thereafter, tickets will be $850. 

All proceeds from the event go directly back to the institution, for the benefit of the students. 

For information about the annual dinner and the Carnival fete, call 472 4204; 387 2411; 620 1634; 795 0050; 620 6079. Those interested in Carnival fete tickets can also book by emailing feteroyaltickets@gmail.com. 

Parang in the City 2016 
Friends of Camsel will host the seventh edition of Parang in the City at Under the Trees, at The Normandie, St Ann’s tomorrow from 7 to 11 pm. Popular parang bands such as Los Alumnos de San Juan, Los Paranderos de UWI, Fuego del Caribeno, Los Tocadores, Sacred Heart Boys’ RC Choir and guest artiste saxophonist Francis Prime, will be the night’s main acts.

Corn soup, pastelles, hops and ham are among some of the menu items guests can enjoy. Drinks will be available from a cash bar. 

Camsel’s Marketing and Sales Officer Michael de Peaza said the annual event began because of the “church’s close affinity to parang” and it “provided an opportunity for people who can’t go to the regions of parang like Paramin and Lopinot to be entertained in the nation’s capital.” 

Since its inception, Parang in the City aims to offer an opportunity for young paranderos to showcase their talents as they develop in the art form. 

Tickets cost $250 and can be purchased at Camsel’s, 31 Independence Square, Port-of-Spain and a range of outlets. For ticketing and more information about the event, call Camsel’s office at 623 6093, or email marketing.camsel@rcpos.org.

When the North Zone of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation staged the 2016 edition of Extemporama recently at SWWTU Hall, Port-of-Spain there was standing room only at the Wrightson Road venue. 

The extempore aspect of calypso has captured the imagination and support of calypso fans as has been demontrated at Carnival when the extempore competition is held. 

The November 5 show wasn’t a competition in the true sense but Neil “Abelele” Baptiste was unanimously adjudged to be the most popular of the bards. He outwitted Black Sage, the latter even giving him an accolade in extempore fashion.

The 2013 South Extempore Monarch, Abebele is no stranger to calypso. The San Fernando resident has made himself quite popular with the public as he has performed nationwide at show venues for many years and could be regarded as the successor to the very popular Mystic Prowler who did gigs at pubs like The Mas Camp back in the day.

The zone honoured veteran calypsonian Wilfred Barker (Young Creole) and gave him a portrait of himself, painted by fellow calypsonian Dr Will B, and a cheque. Among the calypsonians in the fray and the zones they represented were Present were Black Sage, Contender, Brother B, Gary Ranks (North); Lingo, Myron B, Dion Diaz (East); and, Brian London, Short Pants, Abebele (South). Notably absent were past Extempore monarchs Gypsy, due to a death in his family, and Lady Africa. 

Guest performances also came from young artistes Kevan Calliste and junior extempore monarch Kishon Phillip, reigning Humour Monarch Brother Ebony and 1980 Calypso King Relator. 

It is not that Plummer has completely spurned the rhythm of calypso as some of her new compositions carry the calypso beat but her lyrics and song are dedicated to the glory of God.

Plummer doesn’t share a view widely held by many born again Christians that calypso is "devil music".

She said: “Calypso and soca are still the rhythms that I use. It is only the message that is different. It’s what you sing about and how you behave when you are performing that determines if it is acceptable to God.”

As a mainstream calypsonian, Plummer had mixed fortunes and experiences.

She had a brutal introduction to the competitive arena in 1986 when she made her debut at Calypso Fiesta, the National Calypso Monarch semi-finals at Skinner Park, San Fernando. The crowd at Calypso Fiesta is known for their ferocity towards performers it doesn't appreciate, and they were not welcoming to the former pop singer. They threw oranges and toilet paper rolls at her. Plummer's response was to take the toilet paper and wave it during her performance and for her bravery in the face of the onslaught, she won the approval of the rest of the nation.

That Carnival, she performed Phase II Pan Groove's Panorama selection, the now classic Pan Rising, by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe. Two years later, in 1988, singing another Sharpe composition—Woman is Boss—she was crowned the Calypso Queen, made it to the National Calypso Monarch final and Phase II Pan Groove won Panorama.

Plummer’s calypso career was definitely on the rise and in ensuing years she copped the Calypso Queen title on three more occasions and the World Calypso title three times. Plummer became the first woman to win the Young Kings title in 1990 and made it to the National Calypso Monarch final on three occasions. In 2001, she won the coveted title singing Heroes and Nah Leavin’.

Many of Plummer's fans are curious about her life change from calypsonian to lady of gospel and she responded: “To whom much is given, much is required. I have been truly blessed in my career and in my personal life and have decided it is time to give back to God for all he has done for me.”

Saying that there haven’t been major changes in her life, Plummer added: “It has affected my life positively in every way. My family and I are closer than ever, my social life is right where it needs to be and my career is booming. No complaints. No regrets."

Before she was a calypsonian, Denyse Plummer was a leading light in T&T's burgeoning pop scene. She was a regular at the Chaconia Inn and her hits include, You're What I've Waited For, Jambalaya, Natural and a cover of American singer Linda Ronstadt's signature 1977 hit Blue Bayou.

The former pop star continues to perform, perhaps more regularly than when she sang calypso. She said:“I perform at many churches throughout T&T and many gospel concerts. Not long ago I performed in Nigeria and I also recently returned from an amazing ministry in Israel.”

Affiliated to World Outreach Church Ministries, Petit Valley, headed by Pastor Carl Meade, Plummer continued: “My country and my culture have been extremely good to me and I treasure my national award, the Hummingbird Gold Medal.”

In a T&T Guardian interview last year, Meade said: “Few people have come out of the darkness in one piece,” he said. “But Denyse has survived the crossover from darkness to light.”

About her friends and fans, and their reaction to her new calling, Plummer said: “Some friends support me from a distance. My family, other friends and most of the people of my nation are very proud of the positive changes I’ve made in my life. I get tremendous encouragement.”

So, what lies ahead for Denyse Plummer? “I am writing another book,” she disclosed. “I have already written and released my autobiography titled The Crossover. I intend recording more gospel albums as well. Travelling is always in my plans. I plan to share my love, my time and the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. I am also looking forward to having grandchildren.”

"To whom much is given, much is required. I have been truly blessed in my career and in my personal life and have decided it is time to give back to God for all he has done for me."

Magnificent is the only word I can find to describe Constellations II, staged by Massy Trinidad All Stars at Queen’s Hall, last Saturday. A follow up to Constellations I, staged by the Duke Street street orchestra at Church of Our Lady of the Rosary last month, this edition featured a programme of mixed performances showcasing voice, pan and other conventional instruments.

Doing a wonderful job as show host by maintaining a seamless programme, Gerelle Forbes gave the packed venue snippets of All Stars’ illustrious history dating back to the band’s previous metamorphosis during an 80-year span.

All Stars opened the evening in a dramatic fanfare performing Strauss’ Sunrise Fanfare (Thus Spoke Zarathustra), conducted by Deryck Nurse. Its musicians resplendent in gray ensembles, the band then played a perfect interpretation of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Air on a G String. So excellent was the performance of this piece, one could only imagine had this been the final of a Steelband Music Festival, it would have taken something special to better All Stars.

Memory was next, followed by In a Monastery Garden, delivered with bird calls and bells, and imbued by the remarkable vocals of Raymond Edwards and Nigel Floyd. The duo also sang This is the Moment, a piece immortalised in Frank Wildhorn and Steve Cuden’s musical Jekyll & Hyde.

The classical mood was maintained by young guest artiste 16-year-old Rasheed Guy’s interpretation of Flight of the Bumblebee, an orchestral interlude written by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.

The relatively newly formed Trinidad All Stars Youth Steel Orchestra showed its competence by performing The Prayer and This Christmas, under the baton of Kygel Benjamin. More youth followed as Caleb Hart, a young artiste who had only entered the All Stars “family” the previous Tuesday, accompanied himself on guitar to sing a ditty entitled Family. He was rewarded with tumultuous applause.

Young saxophonist Daniel Ryan, a Grade 8 musician, was accompanied by All Stars when he played John Lennon’s Imagine. The steel orchestra showed why it is a multiple Steelband Music Festival champion when Nurse led the band through Von Suppe’s Morning, Noon and Night. At the point, mainly because of the exhilarating music, patrons and musicians alike needed to take a breather and intermission was called.

Upon the resumption of the show, Dane Gulston and Friends, inclusive of Adrian Philbert and Clive Telemaque performed a few items, followed by Trinidad All Stars doing Ballet Switch, a medley of excerpts from Swan Lake, Waltz of the Flowers, Children’s March, Czardas, Dance of the Moorish Slave and Sabre Dance.

Ryan made a second appearance, joining All Stars for the popular Samba de Orfeu. Renowned guitarist Joey Rivers then joined the steelband for O Holly Night, played on acoustic guitar, and Christmas is Yours, for which he switched to electronic guitar.

Briefly departing from the music, All Stars busy body Staci-Ann Patrick administered the presentation of gifts to the night’s two conductors and introduced retiring All Stars leader Beresford “Berry” Hunte, under whose leadership the band hosted three editions of Classical Jewels, won Pan is Beautiful and National Panorama titles, and strengthened the band’s relationship with its sponsor. Hunte, also managed the band’s tours to several overseas destinations. Hunte was given his gift by incoming All Stars manager Nigel Williams.

On a light note, Patrick announced that All Stars would do another first as a steelband, and patrons seemed quite surprised, when its members did the very popular Mannequin Challenge.

For a finale, All Stars played Dance a Cachua, a piece which solicited total audience participation. And so, as it started, Constellations II ended with fanfare, something that is synonymous with all previous productions of this magnitude that All Stars has staged. Constellations II was not just an assemblage of magnificent music but it was a nova of sustained incandescent intensity.

Masimba resists challenge

Lutalo Masimba resisted a stout challenge on Sunday to retain the presidency of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (Tuco). Challenged by Winston Peters (Gypsy) and Morel Peters (Luta), Masimba, artistically known as Brother Resistance, will sit the leadership seat for the next three years.

Tuco national elections were held at the VIP Lounge of the National Carnival Commission (NCC), at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain and was held in a cordial manner, with calypsonians from across Trinidad converging all day at the venue, joined via Skype by their colleagues in Tobago.

Popular calypsonians also vying for posts included Explainer, Duane O’Connor, Abbi Blackman, Twiggy, Delamo, Ras Kommanda, de Mighty Trini and Lady Adana. Divas Cabaret International calypso tent owner Dr Rudolph Ottley was defeated by Lennox London in the race for Marketing Manager, while Ras Kommanda replaced Karega Mandela as Tuco’s PRO.

The new Tuco executive includes Ainsley King (vice president); Kassman (general secretary); Shirlaine Hendrickson (assistant general secretary); Lasana (treasurer); Anthony Johnson (assistant treasurer); Devon Seale (assistant PRO); Calypso Kerr (Welfare Officer); Meagan Sylvester (Education and Research Officer); and; Twiggy and Joseph Adams (Trustees).

Parang Down the Islands

You are invited, tomorrow, to take the Water Taxi on a journey to Ponche de Crème and Parang on Nelson Island in the spirit of the Christmas season. Hosted by The National Trust of T&T, patrons are invited to tour the island, see exhibitions and enjoy live performances by Los Alumnos de San Juan and Los Amigos Cantadores.

Los Alumnos de San Juan, the nine-time National Parang champion, features Parang Queen from 1997 to 2012 Alicia Jaggasar as its lead vocalist and cuatro player.

Los Amigos Cantadores keeps the tradition alive with their electrifying performances of traditional parang. They have represented T&T in Hartford Connecticut conducting a series of workshops on the traditions of parang in T&T.

Tickets are available at the office of the National Trust, Sterling Building, 68-70 Sackville Street, Port-of-Spain, and the Water Taxi Terminals North and South.

For further information, call 225-4750 or 277-6105.

It’s that time of the year when most of the music you hear is the music of Christmas, with our own parang and parang soca leading the way on the airwaves and at all seasonal events.

Maintaining its tradition of showcasing the music of the season is De Nu Pub, formerly The Mas Camp. Last Thursday, the popular Woodbrook showplace featured Alicia Jaggassar & Los Alumnos de San Juan and cuatrista Robert Munro as the star acts on its Parang Parang Parang series. The series continues next Wednesday at 8.30 pm and its headline acts will be Baron, Crazy, Kenny J, Myron B and Ninja.

Not to be left out, PCS Nitrogen Silver Stars Steel Orchestra is hosting its 26th annual edition of Parang & Steel at its panyard, located at 56 Tragarete Road, Newtown. The 2016 edition premieres on December 3 and will feature Voces Jovenes, Kenny J, Debbie Nahous, DJ Kern Crosby and the host band.

Parang & Steel continues on December 10 and will feature La Divina Pastora and Ancil Valley. The star acts for the December 17 finale are Fuego Caribeno and Rikki Jai.

With the National Parang Association of T&T (Npatt) paying special attention to the nation’s youth by successfully staging its junior parang festival, the young ones are grasping at the opportunity to shine. The association highlighted the essence of parang music last weekend when schools from across the nation participated in the festival, held over two days, at the Bishop Anstey Trinity College East facility in Trincity.

In the wake of a magnificent production staged by Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra last Saturday at Queen’s Hall, next Sunday is The Lydians’ turn to shine when this renowned outfit performs at Lydians on the Mount in A Season of Hope, at The Abbey, Mount St Benedict, St Augustine, at 6 pm.

On December 4, Lions Club of Diego Martin West will host its annual fund-raising Sunday Brunch at Lions Civic Centre, Port-of-Spain, from 11 am. Also on that day, Paragon Sports & Cultural Club will hold its Parang & Soca Luncheon at its club house, located next to Massy Stores, West Mall, WMR, Cocorite. Los Cantantes Festivos, Kenny J and DJ Cardo are the main attractions.

During her short stay back home to launch her album, Kelshall-Bynoe said: “This is actually my first solo album. It’s been an amazing process from beginning to end, and a huge learning curve as well. I’ve done everything...with no luck on the sponsorship side, I mean everything.

“I didn’t want to ask family to pitch in as this is all me. I’m making the money to fund it as I go, with my artwork and performances. It gets expensive with hidden costs for licences and marketing etc...hidden to me.”

Kelshall has been singing since childhood and is still fondly remembered as the first female vocalist in Second Imij, now Imij & Co. Leaving the band in 1994, Kelshall-Bynoe embarked on her own musical voyage and spiced it up with a bit of acting. Her first movie, Flight of the Ibis, was an action thriller filmed in Los Angeles, USA and Trinidad and was screened on several US movie channels. She also married Ralph Bynoe and had a daughter, Chloe Rose, who she describes as “an angel from heaven.”

Reflecting on her career, Kelshall-Bynoe said: “I don’t expect to be everyone’s cup of tea but, if you happen to like my flavour, I am genuinely grateful. Locally, I have also worked with some of our top artistes like David Rudder, Denyse Plummer, Shurwayne Winchester; actually too many to mention them all. I also used to do a TV show on TV6 with Machel Montano and Ronnie Mc Intosh. Mine has been an long career of amazing moments.”

For Kelshall-Bynoe, having her own solo album is a dream come true. She said: “I thought it was like magic before with record companies behind me over the years. This was one of the things on my bucket list to achieve; an album with my writing to do well.

Quite proud of her first solo album, Kelshall-Bynoe said: “My Christmas album is close to my heart because I am a Christmas person.

“This is as authentic Tricia Lee as it gets. It’s all well and good to have a major hit with someone else’s writing but I wanted to achieve a hit with my writing. So, I went after it.

“I have an amazing team in my corner making sure I stay on the right path. The team includes Walt Lovelace, Martin “Mice” Raymond, Lee Alyoung, Gary Jordan, Simon Baptiste and my family.”

She continued: “I produced Heart be Light at Studio J Recordings with Jason Dasent, a long-time friend.

“I included Kevon Carter on the first single—Call me Baby —as he was a great fit for my concept and talented as well as a vocalist and writer. I am so very happy to give something to my fans who are still there supporting me. It’s wonderful to have that kind of fuel in your engine.

“It forces you to live up to your potential. I am in Trinidad for the season and busy with corporate functions as well as supporting the single and the album. I can be easily found on FB,” she said.

Despite living in the UK and parts of the US for many years, the affable Kelshall-Bynoe remains “Trini to the bone,” still holding on to many of her childhood peeves and likes. For instance, she thinks ice cream should come in just two flavours—strawberry and coconut.

“I go into art shops just to smell the grey and white erasers,” she adds. “Again, it reminds me of my first new pencil box for ‘big school’. The smell of preserved pepper mango and preserved pepper plums makes me weak. I actually prefer to smell it than eat it.”

Kelshall continued: “Although I am based in the US I am always in Trinidad for performances. I actually think I live in Trinidad more than Florida. It’s a short ride home and airfare is inexpensive, which makes working constantly in Trinidad an option. I am in Trinidad for the entire Christmas season and will be there for Carnival as well. We are deep into the season and my performance schedule is heavy.”

Faced with the challenge of marketing and promoting her album, Kelshall-Bynoe keeps faith that her beautiful voice will take her over all obstacles in her career.

“I was telling daddy that this is where all the hard work falls through the cracks as I just don’t have that money to put an ad in the papers every day,” said Kelshall-Bynoe. “I love that he respects my need to do this on my own. He has always forced us to stand on our own feet. Next time, I will seek funding first and then attempt.

“However, I can’t complain. My song is doing well so I am grateful.”