分类： entertainment

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.

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.

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.

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.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Gabrielle Henry, Jamaica’s representative at the 2025 Miss Universe pageant, continues to receive intensive care following a tragic accident during the evening gown preliminary competition. A week after her fall from the stage, medical professionals have confirmed that she will remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for at least seven more days, under close observation and specialized treatment. Her sister, Dr. Phylicia Henry-Samuels, who is currently in Thailand with their mother, Maureen Henry, provided updates on Gabrielle’s condition. ‘Gabby isn’t doing as well as we had hoped, but the hospital is providing the necessary care,’ Dr. Henry-Samuels stated. The Miss Universe Jamaica Organisation has expressed profound concern and urged both local and international communities to offer their prayers and support. In a heartfelt statement, the organisation called for compassion and sensitivity, requesting the public to refrain from sharing negative comments or misinformation that could exacerbate the family’s distress. ‘Our primary focus is on Gabrielle’s recovery and the well-being of her loved ones,’ the statement emphasized. Dr. Henry sustained a severe head injury during the incident, which led to her withdrawal from the competition and immediate medical attention.

The Armageddon Sound Clash, a premier international music competition, is set to return to Guyana on January 24, 2026, at the National Park Tarmac in Georgetown. This seventh edition of the event will feature six top-tier sound systems from Japan, Germany, Antigua, Guyana, and the United States, vying for the coveted title. The participating sound systems include Article Pride (Japan), Warrior Sound (Germany), Kanabis Sound (Antigua), FireFox Sound (Guyana/USA), Slingerz Family, and Rudeboy Sound (both from Guyana).

Since its inception in 2017, the Armageddon Sound Clash has evolved from a local Guyanese event to a globally recognized platform for sound clash and dancehall culture. Eusi Davis, CEO of Empire Media Inc., the event’s promoter, emphasized its mission to showcase top sound systems and DJs on an international stage. ‘The objective is to promote sound clash and dancehall culture globally while providing a launchpad for talented DJs,’ Davis stated. He highlighted the event’s growth, noting its ability to attract over 4,000 attendees and participants from diverse countries such as South Sudan, Jamaica, Japan, and Germany.

The competition has become a career-defining platform for many DJs and sound systems. Notable past winners include Notorious Sound, a Jamaican-Guyanese duo, and Japan’s Article Pride Sound, which claimed victory in the most recent edition. Davis underscored the event’s impact, stating, ‘Many participants have gained international visibility, expanded their fan bases, and secured additional bookings and endorsements after performing at Armageddon.’

Guyana Breweries, a major sponsor of the event, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local talent through its RockStone Tonic Wine brand. Seweon McGarrell, the company’s marketing manager, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s role in showcasing Guyanese talent and strengthening ties with the entertainment industry. ‘We are excited to continue our partnership with Empire Media Inc. and contribute to the growth of this globally recognized platform,’ McGarrell said.

As the countdown to the 2026 edition begins, the Armageddon Sound Clash continues to solidify its reputation as a must-attend event for music enthusiasts and a vital platform for emerging talent in the global sound clash and dancehall scene.