The Miss Universe pageant, set to take place on November 20, 2025, in Thailand, has been rocked by controversy following the resignation of two judges. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch, one of the departing judges, took to Instagram to announce his exit, alleging that an ‘impromptu jury’ had preselected 30 finalists without the official panel’s knowledge. Harfouch suggested that this group included individuals with personal ties to certain contestants, raising concerns about the fairness of the competition. The Miss Universe Organisation swiftly denied these allegations, stating that no unauthorized group had been involved in the selection process. They clarified that Harfouch might have confused the situation with Beyond the Crown, a separate social impact initiative with its own independent committee. On the same day, French football manager Claude Makélélé also stepped down, citing personal reasons but expressing respect for the pageant. These resignations come in the wake of another incident in Thailand, where several contestants walked out of a pre-pageant event after Thailand’s national director publicly criticized Miss Mexico for failing to post promotional content. Despite the turmoil, Miss Universe officials have assured the public that preparations for the finals remain on track.
分类： entertainment
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Grenadian Culinary Delegation at Festival de la Gastronomie 2025
Grenada is set to make a remarkable culinary statement at the grand finale of the 2025 Festival de la Gastronomie in Marigot, St Martin. Organized by the Grenada Office of Creative Affairs (GOCA), the event titled ‘From the Roots to the Horizon: A Journey of Grenadian History Through Flavours’ will take place on November 22. The Grenadian delegation, led by renowned chefs Anthony Johnson and Joachim Joseph, aims to highlight the island’s rich culinary traditions and innovative gastronomy. Johnson, President of the Grenada Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Association (GGCAA) Inc., expressed pride in representing Grenada and sharing its unique culinary narrative. The presentation will feature two signature dishes: Tri-Island Oil Down, presented in chicken/pork, seafood, and vegan variations, and Sweet Potato Pone with a Twist, incorporating passion fruit as a nod to the festival’s theme. This participation underscores GOCA’s commitment to developing gastronomy as a key sector within Grenada’s creative economy, with significant investments planned for 2026. Senator Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, emphasized the importance of supporting culinary creatives through advanced training and infrastructure. The 12-day festival, now in its fifth edition, celebrates Caribbean collaboration, bringing together chefs from Grenada, Dominica, Barbados, Haiti, and Curaçao to showcase the region’s diverse flavors and culinary artistry.
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Prentenboek Ida Does brengt ode aan Trefossa’s Srefidensi
The newly released picture book, ‘Luan and the Magical Fireflies,’ by filmmaker and writer Ida Does and illustrator Nazrina Rodjan, was unveiled in a festive ceremony at the Children’s Book Museum in The Hague. The book commemorates the 50th anniversary of Srefidensi, a term coined by the poet Trefossa, who authored Suriname’s national anthem. Bertram Mourits, Head of Collections at the Literature Museum/Children’s Book Museum, opened the event by highlighting the literary significance of Trefossa’s poetry. Ida Does read excerpts from her work, which follows Luan, a boy attuned to nature, as he poetically explores the meaning of Srefidensi. The story also addresses the environmental impact of gold mining and deforestation on rivers and forests. A pivotal moment occurs when Luan notices the creek’s water has turned murky, subtly teaching young readers about the tension between nature and human intervention. Illustrator Nazrina Rodjan, who has Surinamese roots, shared how her recent visit to Suriname inspired her artwork. The first copy of the book was joyfully received by actress Gerda Havertong, who entertained the audience with her warmth and stage presence. Additionally, Ida Does announced that 200 copies will be donated to Suriname, distributed through the Writers’ School Paramaribo to schools, libraries, and children’s homes. The book will also include an educational guide created by the Writers’ School.
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Pan, powder and mas in San Fernando on November 22
San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, is currently immersed in a month-long celebration of its rich cultural heritage, culminating in the highly anticipated Steelpan and Powder Parade. This vibrant event, now in its second year, is a collaboration between Pan Trinbago and the San Fernando City Corporation, marking the city’s 37th anniversary since gaining city status in 1988. The festivities kicked off with the Heritage Skiffle Steel Orchestra’s performance on November 16, 2024, setting the tone for a series of events that celebrate the national instrument—the steelpan. The J’Ouvert parade, scheduled for November 22, 2025, will begin at 2 am, winding through the city’s streets and culminating in a grand street party. Mayor Robert Parris emphasized the city’s commitment to responsible entertainment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The Steelpan and Powder Parade, a highlight of the celebrations, will feature performances by renowned steelbands such as Heritage Petroleum Skiffle, NLCB Fonclaire, and Trinidad All Stars, among others. Pan Trinbago President Beverly Ramsey-Moore described the event as a landmark cultural showcase, blending the infectious rhythms of steelpan with the vibrant tradition of powder festivities. The parade, which begins at 6 pm on Coffee Street and concludes at Skinner Park, promises an evening of color, rhythm, and unity. This celebration not only honors Trinidad and Tobago’s musical traditions but also aims to boost tourism and diversify the economy through the orange economy. Mayor Parris invited locals and tourists alike to experience the unique southern blend of steelbands and southern hospitality, making this event a must-attend for steelpan enthusiasts and cultural aficionados.
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Teen takes his love of music and Junkanoo to US college
The vibrant sounds of Junkanoo, a traditional Bahamian festival, recently echoed through Langston University, a historically Black university (HBCU) in Oklahoma, thanks to the efforts of 19-year-old Bahamian student Sharano Hanna. Hanna, a sophomore and member of the Saxons Superstars, composed a melody for the university’s marching band, introducing the distinctive rhythms of Junkanoo to his American peers. The performance, which took place during the university’s final football game on November 15th, captivated audiences and left Bahamians brimming with pride.
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Stella Maris Dance Ensemble stages 32nd season this weekend
The Stella Maris Dance Ensemble (SMDE) is set to captivate audiences with its 32nd Season of Dance, taking place at The Little Theatre on Saturday, November 22 at 8 pm and Sunday, November 23 at 5 pm. This year’s production, under the esteemed patronage of Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, promises a rich tapestry of performances that blend cultural heritage with contemporary social commentary. The event will feature a diverse repertoire curated by acclaimed choreographers, including Abeldo Gonzales (Cuba), Tony Wilson, Renee McDonald, Andre Hinds, and Dr. MoniKa Lawrence. Their works delve into themes such as the resilience of Black communities, the global climate crisis, gender dynamics, and Jamaica’s folk traditions and revival spirituality. Highlights include Dr. Lawrence’s ‘Selah’ and Patsy Ricketts’ ‘Kingston 666,’ performed by senior SMDE dancers. In a nod to community engagement, the ensemble will host a free matinee on Friday, November 21, for 500 children from Homes of Safety and inner-city Kingston, offering an immersive cultural experience with refreshments and interactive activities. This year’s season also honors the legacy of Dr. Maria Smith, a dedicated patron of the arts, with a special tribute performance of ‘African Nite.’ Additionally, the ensemble will collect non-perishable items during the performances to aid victims of Hurricane Melissa, underscoring their commitment to combining art with social responsibility. Dr. Lawrence, the Artistic Director, emphasized the ensemble’s mission to use dance as a reflection of society, celebrating the past, confronting the present, and inspiring hope for the future.
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Lydians present De Chile Faddah on December 13 and 14
This December, The Lydian Singers, a renowned choir, will captivate audiences with their 2025 Christmas musical production, ‘De Chile Faddah – The Nativity: Joseph’s Story.’ Scheduled for December 13 and 14 at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, this production offers a bold and moving perspective on the birth of Christ, seen through the eyes of Joseph in a contemporary Trinidad and Tobago setting. Written by Bernard Shepherd SC, ‘De Chile Faddah’ breathes new life into the familiar nativity story with a uniquely Caribbean voice. It delves into Joseph’s emotional and spiritual journey as he embraces his role as the father of a child not biologically his. The production features original music, inspiring choral performances, and powerful storytelling, blending cultural authenticity with timeless themes of love, faith, and fatherhood. Directed by the acclaimed Davlin Thomas, the show boasts a stellar cast, including Kareem Forde as Joseph, Curtis Gross as Nick, Antonio Modeste as Gabriel, and Uchena Mayers as Mary, with cameo appearances by Jean, Dina, Rosita, and Clementina. Audiences can also look forward to stirring dance performances by the North West Laventille Cultural Movement. ‘De Chile Faddah’ is more than just a Christmas concert; it’s a heartfelt celebration of hope, responsibility, and divine purpose, brought to life through the music and drama that only The Lydians can deliver. Showtimes are 7 pm on December 13 and 6 pm on December 14. Tickets are available from Lydian Members, at the Queen’s Hall Box Office, online at IslandE tickets and Queen’s Hall online platform, or by reservation via messaging at 253-7464.
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Classics on show for Melissa
The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) marked a triumphant return to the spotlight with its first car show in seven years, held at the Jamaica Horticultural Society in Hope Pastures, St Andrew, on Sunday, November 16. The event, initially planned to support the club’s initiatives, took on a new purpose in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, redirecting its focus to hurricane relief efforts. Naresh Potopsingh, president of the JCCC, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout, estimating over 500 attendees based on ticket sales, though final numbers are still being audited. The show featured an impressive array of classic cars, ranging from modern exotics to rare local treasures, complemented by live music, a fashion show by Phusion Models International, and various prizes. Patrons reveled in the nostalgia and camaraderie, with many expressing delight at the variety and arrangement of vehicles. Potopsingh highlighted the seamless synergy between the cars, attendees, sponsors, and participants, including DJ Audley and the fashion models. Among the standout vehicles was Kevin Murray’s meticulously restored 1995 Toyota LandCruiser, a project that spanned several years and involved extensive bodywork, mechanical upgrades, and interior refurbishment. The event not only celebrated automotive history but also demonstrated the club’s commitment to community support, with proceeds set to aid those affected by the recent hurricane.
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Jamaica Strong promoters bank on strong turn out at concert to aid Hurricane Melissa recovery
The Jamaica Strong concert, set to take place at the UBS Arena in Long Island on December 12, is poised to be a major fundraising event for Jamaicans impacted by Hurricane Melissa. Organizers, including Jammins Entertainment, Irie Jam Radio, and RoadBlock Radio, are targeting a minimum of $1 million in donations, with hopes of exceeding this goal to provide immediate relief and support long-term recovery efforts. The star-studded lineup features renowned artists such as Shaggy, Sean Paul, Inner Circle, Marcia Griffiths, Kevin Downswell, and Richie Stephens, all united in their commitment to the cause. Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie Jam Radio, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, ‘The need is enormous, and every dollar matters. The more we raise, the stronger the foundation we can lay for rebuilding.’ George Crooks of Jammins Entertainment highlighted Shaggy’s pivotal role in rallying other artists, noting his deep personal investment in the initiative. The UBS Arena, with a capacity of 17,000, has previously hosted successful Jamaican events, including Buju Banton’s sold-out performance in July 2024 and Beenie Man’s well-attended show in May. Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, devastated Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread destruction in rural parishes and claiming 45 lives. The concert aims to bring hope and tangible support to those affected.
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Aiesha’s Jamaica Strong surpasses one million views
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa, Jamaican singer Aiesha channeled the collective pain and resilience of her nation into a powerful anthem titled ‘Jamaica Strong.’ Produced by Jjwizzle, the song has rapidly gained traction, amassing over one million combined views on Facebook and Instagram since its release.