Dominican author, musician, and cultural advocate Ian Jackson has achieved a remarkable literary milestone with the simultaneous release of three new books, marking the first-ever triple publication by a single author in Dominica. This historic event underscores Jackson’s enduring contributions to the island’s cultural and literary heritage. Jackson’s artistic journey began at the age of nine with the Kiddie’s Corner Show at the Parish Hall, and he has since emerged as a versatile figure in the performing arts, excelling as a musician, songwriter, actor, and writer. He is a founding member and former president of the Dominica Writers Guild, a former leader of the RSB band, and served as president of the Dominica Calypso Association from 2000 to 2004. Despite his diverse artistic endeavors, Jackson has always prioritized writing, a passion that blossomed during his school years. As Deputy Head Boy and editor of the Clarion magazine at Dominica Grammar School, he gained recognition for his poetry, winning numerous national and regional competitions. Inspired by historian Lennox Honychurch, Jackson committed in 1980 to documenting Dominica’s cultural arts. His journalistic career includes a weekly column in the Sun newspaper, work at the Chronicle, and ongoing contributions to Vibes Radio, where he critiques and celebrates local performing arts. Jackson credits cultural icon Alwin Bully for recognizing his talent early and facilitating his participation in a fine arts program at CARIMAC in Jamaica. He also studied under Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott at the University of Miami. Jackson’s accolades include the Golden Drum Award in 2013 and the Meritorious Service Award in 2022. The three newly launched books include a biography of the late Fitzroy Williams, a prominent cultural figure who played steel pan with Jackson’s father, Ulric Jackson, Dominica’s first three-time Calypso King. The second book, *In the Still of Night*, is a collection of 69 articles celebrating and critiquing Dominican arts and culture. The third book blends poetry, short stories, and essays rooted in Dominican myths and beliefs. During the launch, Jackson urged the Ministry of Education and Culture to incorporate Dominican literary works into school curricula and proposed renaming the Arawak House of Culture in honor of the late Alwin Bully. He also paid tribute to his late mother, his daughter Janae, and the late educator Josephine Joseph, whose influence ignited his love for literature. The books are available at Jay’s Bookstore and on Amazon in English and French.
分类: entertainment
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Cuban poster exhibition opens at Cineteca in Mexico
The National Film Archive in Mexico City recently launched a captivating exhibition featuring 15 meticulously curated posters from the Cuban Embassy’s collection. Marina Stavenhagen, the Director General of the National Film Archive, inaugurated the event, highlighting the significance of the showcased works. These posters, created between 1964 and 1993, bear the artistic signatures of renowned Cuban visual artists Raul Martinez and Rene Portocarrero, as well as designers Eduardo Munoz and Antonio Fernandez. The exhibition drew a crowd of enthusiasts who marveled at the iconic designs for films like ‘Lucia’ and ‘Memories of Underdevelopment.’ Stavenhagen revealed that this display is the first installment of a larger exhibition slated for January at the National Film Archive in Chapultepec. She emphasized the honor of presenting a segment of the archive’s iconographic collection, which celebrates the creativity and diversity of Cuban film posters, a globally recognized art form. Following the opening, attendees were treated to a screening of the Cuban cinema classic ‘Strawberry and Chocolate’ (1993), offering a glimpse into the upcoming Cuban film series scheduled for January 2026.
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Flamenco comes alive in “Viva Flamenco” performance at Fine Arts Palace
The Leslie Ricardo School of Dance is set to commemorate International Flamenco Day with an electrifying performance titled ‘Viva Flamenco.’ The event will take place on Sunday, November 16, at 7:00 p.m. in the Máximo Avilés Blonda Hall of the Palace of Fine Arts in Santo Domingo. This celebration promises to immerse the audience in a dynamic fusion of rhythm, color, and emotion, underscoring the timeless allure of flamenco as a profound artistic expression. Over 80 aspiring dancers will grace the stage, presenting a diverse repertoire of flamenco styles, including the passionate ‘caña,’ the exuberant ‘sevillanas,’ and the lively ‘bulerías.’ Each performance will showcase the students’ artistic growth and technical prowess, enhanced by traditional Spanish dance elements such as shawls, fans, castanets, and the iconic flamenco attire. Leslie Ricardo, the school’s artistic director, described the event as ‘an experience to feel, learn, and celebrate,’ highlighting how flamenco serves as a medium for dancers to convey character, discipline, and freedom through movement. This initiative underscores the school’s dedication to promoting Spanish dance in the Dominican Republic, fostering cultural identity, community engagement, and artistic fervor. Tickets for this unforgettable evening are available for purchase at TIX.DO.
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Shaw Peters on show at Studio Joli
Studio Joli is proud to present Shawn Peters’ latest exhibition, ‘I Think in Line and in Colour,’ opening on November 13. Now in his 50s, Peters is widely regarded as an established and accomplished artist, with a career spanning over two decades. His works are prominently displayed in prestigious locations such as the Prime Minister’s Diplomatic Centre, various government departments, and major collections across Trinidad and Tobago, including Angostura, the Central Bank, and the National Museum. Peters has also showcased his art internationally, with exhibitions in the Caribbean, including Cuba, and around the globe.
Throughout his artistic journey, Peters has collaborated with and been influenced by renowned artists such as Emheyo Bahabba, Guy Beckles, the Boothman brothers, Edward Bowen, Holly Guyadeen, Shastri Maharaj, Gregory Williams, and Che Lovelace. He has also maintained friendships with artists from Barbados, Suriname, and other regions. Leroy Clarke, Carlisle Harris, Ken Crichlow, and Makemba Kunle are among his key mentors, shaping his unique artistic voice.
Peters’ work is characterized by distorted figures and cubist tendencies, a signature style that has earned him recognition and acclaim. As Kunle once noted, ‘He is meticulous in his rendering of line, colour, and texture, often achieving a sleek appearance. For those who know him, slickness is his dress code.’
When asked for his artist statement for this collection, Peters offered a profound reflection: ‘I would not wish myself on anyone else, and yet, I would not wish to be anyone else but myself.’ This sentiment encapsulates the individuality and authenticity that define his art.
The exhibition will run from November 13 to November 27 at Studio Joli, located at 21 Henry Pierre Street, St James. Opening hours are 10 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays. For more information, contact 705-7907 or 705-7909, email studiojoli.tt@gmail.com, or visit their website at www.studiojoli.net.
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Orlando Griffith’s journey back to purpose
After a 20-year hiatus from the art world, Orlando Griffith, known professionally as ‘Morpheus,’ is making a triumphant return with his debut solo exhibition, ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep.’ The exhibition, set to open on November 21 at Arnim’s Art Gallery in Port of Spain, delves into themes of memory, grief, and the profound power of presence. Griffith’s journey back to art was sparked by the loss of his father in January 2022, who, in his final days, affirmed Griffith’s artistic vision. This blessing reignited a dormant passion, transforming art into a medium for healing and rediscovery. Griffith’s creative process is deeply rooted in reflection and gratitude, with each piece serving as a tribute to the time shared with his father. The exhibition features 60 works, including 30 paintings and 30 fine-art photographs, each capturing moments of stillness and presence in Caribbean nature. Griffith’s unique approach to art, which seamlessly blends painting and photography, invites viewers to slow down and observe the often-overlooked beauty of the world around them. The title ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ reflects Griffith’s belief that dreams, both literal and symbolic, continue to live within us even when we’re awake. The exhibition is not just a return to art for Griffith but a lifelong conversation with presence, evolving into a series that explores different aspects of stillness and observation. Griffith’s work is a testament to the quiet, reflective side of Trinidad and Tobago, offering a counterpoint to the high-energy Carnival culture. His advice to emerging Caribbean artists is to build from what feels honest to them, trusting that small beginnings can carry global weight. ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ runs until December 5, with extended viewing hours on Mondays and Wednesdays.
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Kairi People hosts Runaway all-inclusive fete on November 12
Kairi People, a renowned event management and promotion company, has unveiled its latest venture, ‘Beats,’ located at the intersection of Tragarete Road and White Street in Woodbrook. This vibrant new venue combines food, drinks, and entertainment under one roof, offering a convenient and accessible hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, ‘Beats’ will function as a ticket outlet for all Kairi People events, further enhancing its utility and appeal. The launch of ‘Beats’ follows the official commencement of Carnival 2026, which was celebrated last Friday at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain.
In preparation for Carnival 2026, Kairi People is set to host its highly anticipated ‘Runaway’ event on November 12 at the Southern Ranch in Debe. The event promises an impressive lineup of soca stars and entertainers, including Voice, Patrice Roberts, D All Starz band, College Boy Jesse, Viking Ding Dong, Mical Teja, The Freetown Collective, Blaka Dan, Sackie, Anika Berry, Sekon Sta, and Yung Bredda. Notably, the top-rated A Team Band will make its debut performance at ‘Runaway,’ with its all-new frontline cast officially launching on November 13 at The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge in St Clair.
These developments underscore Kairi People’s commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences and solidifying its reputation as a leading force in Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant cultural scene.
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Pope Leo reels off four favourite films
In a surprising and heartfelt revelation, Pope Leo XIV has disclosed his four favorite films just days before a unique gathering with Hollywood luminaries and acclaimed directors at the Vatican. The first American pope, known for his deep connection to art and culture, selected a mix of timeless classics that resonate with themes of hope, family, and resilience. His choices include Frank Capra’s 1946 masterpiece ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ starring James Stewart, a poignant tale of an angel aiding a despairing family man. The pontiff also highlighted Robert Wise’s 1965 musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ Robert Redford’s 1980 family drama ‘Ordinary People,’ and Roberto Benigni’s 1997 Holocaust-inspired film ‘Life Is Beautiful,’ which portrays a father’s efforts to protect his son from the atrocities of a WWII concentration camp. The Vatican emphasized that these films hold profound personal significance for Pope Leo. The event, scheduled for Saturday at the Apostolic Palace, will feature stars such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Dave Franco, and Monica Bellucci, alongside directors like Spike Lee, Judd Apatow, George Miller, and Giuseppe Tornatore. This initiative, part of the Catholic Church’s Holy Year celebrations, aims to foster dialogue between the Church and the cinematic world, exploring how artistic creativity can enhance the Church’s mission and promote universal human values.
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NWAC calypso queen registration opens
The National Women’s Action Committee (NWAC) has announced significant updates to the 2026 National Calypso Queen competition, aiming to foster greater artistic development and inclusivity. In a press release issued on November 12, NWAC revealed that the competition will introduce a semi-final round and welcome back past winners, thanks to a revision of the entry rules. Previously, winners were barred from re-entering the competition, but this restriction has now been lifted. Starting in 2026, a winner can participate again until she secures a second title, effectively allowing her to exit the competition only after two victories. This rule change has been made retroactive, enabling any past winner to re-enter, provided she has not won titles in other major competitions such as the calypso monarch, road march, soca monarch, or chutney monarch. The final is scheduled for January 25 at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, while auditions will commence on December 13 at Scarborough Secondary School in Tobago. These updates aim to enhance the competition’s dynamism and provide more opportunities for female calypsonians to showcase their talent.
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DJ Russ Buss gives his life to the Lord
Russell Gordon, widely recognized in the entertainment industry as DJ Russ Buss and formerly associated with the Coppershot Sound, has recently embraced born-again Christianity. The 27-year-old artist announced this significant personal milestone in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday. In his message, Russ Buss reflected on his spiritual journey, acknowledging the struggles he faced with his faith. He emphasized that perfection is not a prerequisite for embracing God’s call, stating, ‘God doesn’t call us to be perfect…he says come as we are.’ The post concluded with gratitude to God and Jesus for their guidance, quoting a biblical verse that encourages seeking the Kingdom of God above all else. The announcement garnered an outpouring of support from prominent figures in the entertainment world, including Silent Addy, Fyahman, ZJ Ice, and Miss Universe Jamaica 2023 Jordanne Lauren Levy, who all expressed their congratulations and well-wishes. Russ Buss, who finished as the runner-up in the 2017 SunCity High School competition, has a diverse background in music and education. He is currently pursuing a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications with a minor in Entertainment and Cultural Enterprise Management at CARIMAC, showcasing his multifaceted talents and ambitions.
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Lovers’ Leap concert series repurposed for aid
The much-anticipated Lovers’ Leap Lighthouse Series show, initially set for October 25, has been postponed and transformed into a charity event aimed at supporting the reconstruction of the iconic attraction and assisting communities in need. The rescheduled benefit concert will still showcase performances by renowned artists Marcia Griffiths and Tanya Stephens. Jason Ricketts, the marketing and communications director of Lovers’ Leap, shared with the Jamaica Observer that the venue for the event remains undecided, though the attraction’s own property is under consideration as cleanup efforts are underway. Ricketts expressed confidence in the overwhelming support from the Jamaican community, emphasizing the event’s purpose of giving back to the people. St Elizabeth, one of the parishes most severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa on October 28, saw Lovers’ Leap suffer significant infrastructural damage, compounding the destruction caused by Hurricane Beryl earlier in 2024. Despite these challenges, Ricketts highlighted the resilience of the St Elizabeth community and the ongoing efforts by entertainment stakeholders to provide aid, including distributing care packages and hot meals to affected areas. The event’s organizers are conducting thorough assessments to ensure a well-planned execution, with proceeds from the concert dedicated to rebuilding Lovers’ Leap and supporting local communities. Tickets purchased for the original date remain valid, and promoters have offered refund options for patrons who prefer to redirect their contributions to charity. Ricketts extended gratitude to the Sandz team and Romeich Entertainment for their assistance in these relief efforts.
