The National Parang Association of Trinidad and Tobago successfully hosted its third annual Parang Festival on October 25, 2025, at the San Raphael RC School. The event, themed *El Poder de La Parranda* (The Power of Parang), showcased the rich cultural heritage of parang music, a traditional genre deeply rooted in the country’s history. Thirteen talented bands graced the stage, including Los Sonidos, Herencia Venezolana, Voces de Promesa, Admonias Magníficas, Los Amigos Cantadores, Los Alumnos de San Juan, Voces Jóvenes, and Buenos Ayres Sancouche. Each group brought their unique flair to the festival, captivating the audience with lively performances. Newsday photographer Angelo Marcelle documented the event, capturing the essence of the vibrant celebrations. Highlights included the youthful energy of Admonias Cantadores, which underscored the promising future of parang, and the spirited performance by La Familia de Carmona y Amigos, representing Chaguanas. Jade Antoine of Los Sonidos also stood out, showcasing her skill on the maracas. The festival not only entertained but also reinforced the cultural significance of parang music in Trinidad and Tobago.
分类： entertainment
-
UK actress Prunella Scales, TV’s Sybil Fawlty, dies at 93
LONDON, United Kingdom — Prunella Scales, the celebrated British actress renowned for her iconic role as Sybil in the classic TV comedy “Fawlty Towers,” has passed away at the age of 93. Her family confirmed her peaceful passing at her London home on Monday. Scales, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2013, remained active in her career for several years, often collaborating with her husband, the esteemed actor Timothy West, who predeceased her in November 2024. The couple, married for 61 years, shared a profound bond, with West becoming her caregiver in later years. Together, they also filmed multiple series of the Channel 4 program “Great Canal Journeys.” Scales’ portrayal of Sybil, the sharp-witted wife of the bumbling hotelier Basil Fawlty, played by John Cleese, cemented her status as a beloved figure in British television. “Fawlty Towers,” created by Cleese and his then-wife Connie Booth, aired only 12 episodes between 1975 and 1979 but left an indelible mark on British culture. In 2019, the show was hailed as the greatest British sitcom of all time by “Radio Times.” Scales’ illustrious career spanned nearly seven decades, including her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the film “A Question of Attribution” and her one-woman show “An Evening With Queen Victoria.” She is survived by her two sons, a stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
-
Antiguans Flock to Dominica for Record-Breaking World Creole Music Festival
The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), held from October 24–26 at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica, has been celebrated as one of the most successful iterations since its inception. Under the theme ‘Pulsating Rhythms,’ the festival showcased the island’s rich musical heritage while attracting a record-breaking crowd, including an estimated 1,000 Antiguans and Dominicans residing in Antigua and Barbuda. Organizers reported one of the largest turnouts in recent years, with a significant surge in visitors from Antigua, many of whom traveled specifically to witness the electrifying Friday night performance by Antigua and Barbuda’s iconic soca band, Burning Flames. Prime Minister Gaston Browne graced the opening night, joining thousands of enthusiastic festivalgoers. The evening also featured stellar performances by Masicka, Steel Pulse, Romain Virgo, Triple Kay International, and Midnight Groovers. Burning Flames’ dynamic set, blending timeless hits with fresh rhythms, ignited a wave of national pride among Antiguans in attendance. Saturday’s lineup maintained the high energy with powerhouse acts like Vybz Kartel, Spice, Kes, WCK, Joé Dwèt Filé, Asa Bantan, and Ophelia, delivering a seamless fusion of reggae, bouyon, and soca. The festival concluded on Sunday with a star-studded finale, headlined by Kehlani, Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Tiwa Savage, and Kassav, alongside local favorites Signal Band and Michele Henderson. Patrons described the final night as ‘electric,’ cementing this year’s WCMF as the most memorable to date. Tour operators and ferry companies noted a significant uptick in travel from Antigua, with tickets selling out early and accommodations reaching full capacity. Festival officials attributed the record attendance and world-class performances to solidifying WCMF’s reputation as a premier Caribbean music festival and a symbol of Creole culture and regional unity.
-
Grenada Contemporary 2025 opens 30 October
The Grenada Contemporary Exhibition, a cornerstone of Caribbean visual art, is set to return for its 8th edition on Thursday, 30 October 2025, at Art House 473. The event, running from 6 pm to 7:30 pm, offers free admission to the public, inviting all to immerse themselves in one of the region’s most vibrant artistic platforms. Since its inception under the Susan Mains Gallery, the exhibition has grown into a critical and creative benchmark, showcasing the works of 91 artists across various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. This year’s theme, ‘Dreevay,’ a Caribbean term symbolizing wandering and movement, explores the idea that art thrives in motion, capturing the spontaneous and ever-evolving essence of Caribbean life. Curated by Asher Mains, the exhibition features over 25 artists whose works delve into themes of identity, ecology, migration, and belonging. The event will also include an artist talk on Saturday, 1 November, featuring Russell Watson from Barbados, who will share insights into his photography and video art practice. Grenada Contemporary continues to assert the Caribbean as a hub of artistic innovation, offering a space where visual, political, and poetic expressions converge. Parking is available at Lavo Lanes, with a shuttle service provided. For media inquiries, contact [email protected].
-
Applications Open for Inaugural Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant 2026
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The first-ever Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant is set to debut in 2026, offering young women from the constituency a platform to showcase their elegance, leadership, and community spirit. Organizers have officially opened applications for female residents aged 18 to 27, emphasizing that no prior pageant experience is required. Instead, they seek participants who demonstrate poise, authenticity, and a drive for personal growth. The competition aims to celebrate women who embody beauty, intelligence, and a deep commitment to their community. The winner will assume the role of a community ambassador, fostering civic engagement and inspiring others to pursue leadership roles. Applications can be submitted online at https://forms.gle/DtqkXTVSmj8RZaWc9. This groundbreaking event is hailed as a significant milestone, blending heritage, empowerment, and grace into a single celebration.
-
Kehlani’s performance at tonight’s WCMF show cancelled
International music sensation Kehlani has been forced to withdraw from the final night of the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica, as confirmed by the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). The Oakland-born artist was slated to headline the event but was unable to attend after her charter flight was canceled due to the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa. The DDA expressed deep regret over the cancellation, acknowledging the disappointment of fans eagerly anticipating Kehlani’s performance. However, the authority reassured attendees that the festival would continue as planned, with a lineup of regional and international artists ready to deliver exceptional and memorable performances. The festival, known for celebrating Creole culture and music, remains a highlight of the cultural calendar, and organizers are committed to ensuring a successful conclusion despite the unforeseen setback.
-
Derrick ‘Rah’ Peters on Bouyon roots: ‘I didn’t want to be a copycat’
Derrick ‘Rah’ Peters, a pivotal figure in the development of Bouyon music, recently shared insights into the genre’s African roots and its global ascent during an interview on the Mornin’ Barbados program. Peters, whose musical journey began at the age of two, recounted his early fascination with percussion instruments, even crafting homemade drums due to limited resources. Influenced by Caribbean and African sounds like kompa, reggae, kadans, soca, and calypso, Peters’ unique musical style began to take shape in his formative years. In the late 1980s, Peters joined forces with the Windward Caribbean Kulture (WCK) band, including keyboardist Cornell Phillips, marking the genesis of Bouyon. This genre, akin to a ‘soup’ or ‘stew,’ blends diverse rhythms while honoring traditional Dominican sounds and the cultural heritage of the Kalinago people. Peters emphasized the importance of originality, stating, ‘I didn’t want to be a copycat.’ Early hits like ‘Culture Clash’ and ‘Conch Shell’ showcased the genre’s distinctive fusion, with the latter introducing the lapo kabwit drum sound to a broader audience. Bouyon’s evolution continued with influences from salsa and hip-hop, always rooted in African traditions. The band’s 1995 album ‘To Chou To Flam,’ featuring the hit ‘Balance Batty,’ cemented Bouyon’s regional popularity. Peters also highlighted the genre’s enduring appeal, attributing it to its African heritage and the deliberate craftsmanship behind its creation. Looking to the future, Peters expressed pride in his son, Ajmal ‘Skyo’ Peters, who is carrying forward the musical legacy. Peters concluded with a call to preserve Bouyon’s roots while embracing innovation, ensuring the genre’s continued strength and relevance.
-
Love Divine strikes the perfect note
The third edition of Love Divine, held at the Frank Collymore Hall in Barbados, was a mesmerizing blend of music, faith, and community spirit. Originally conceived as a tribute to the late Sylvian Moore, the event has evolved into one of the island’s most cherished musical fundraisers. Hosted by the charismatic Antwone Holder, the evening was a rich tapestry of hymns, gospel, reggae, and Caribbean soul, performed by the Love Divine Band under the expert direction of Kevin Moore. The band’s precision and passion, coupled with modern arrangements by Roger Gittens and Mark Husbands, breathed new life into timeless classics like ‘Will Your Anchor Hold’ and ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus.’ Trumpeter Kweku Jelani delivered a standout performance, blending reverence with reggae rhythms in ‘Lamb of God/By the Rivers of Babylon.’ The second half of the concert was a celebration of joy and unity, featuring powerful vocals from Skyy Dowridge and electrifying performances of ‘Big God’ and ‘Shackles.’ The audience, moved by heartfelt moments like the Gilkes brothers’ tribute to their late parents, joined in clapping, stomping, and singing, creating an atmosphere of togetherness. The event, produced by Trumpetboy Entertainment, raised over $27,000 for Cancer Support Services, a cause close to the hearts of co-producers Kevin and Kelita Moore. The night concluded with Stedson RPB Wiltshire’s stirring rendition of ‘I’m Alive,’ a fitting anthem of resilience and hope. Love Divine 3 proved once again that music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite.
-
Pioneer of British Lovers Rock Reggae, Vivian Jones, passes at 68
Vivian Jones, a trailblazer in the British lovers rock reggae scene, passed away on October 27 at the age of 68. His death was announced via social media and the German reggae platform, reggaeville.com. Born in Trelawny, Jamaica, Jones moved to the United Kingdom in 1968, where he became a prominent figure in the 1970s sound system culture. His career soared in 1979 with the release of his hit single *Good Morning*, which was followed by other notable tracks like *Sugar Love* and *Strong Love* in the 1980s. In a 2014 interview with the *Jamaica Observer*, Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the revival of lovers rock, citing documentaries and the success of artist Bitty McLean as key factors. ‘People want the real reggae, and lovers rock is real reggae,’ he remarked. Raised in Willesden, a London neighborhood with a significant Caribbean community, Jones began his career as a deejay and later performed with bands such as The Spartans, The Mighty Vibes, The Pieces, and Ruff Cutt. His UK hits during the late 1970s included *Black Gold and Green* and *Who’s Going to Get Caught (In Babylon Trap)*. Alongside artists like Maxi Priest, Peter Hunnigale, Janet Kay, and Carroll Thompson, Jones played a pivotal role in popularizing lovers rock. His collaborations extended to Jamaica, where he worked with legendary producers Bobby Digital and Sly and Robbie during a visit 11 years ago.
-
Kenderson Noray presents Rhythm of My Heart at Horizons Art Gallery
Horizons Art Gallery in Trinidad and Tobago is set to unveil ‘Rhythm of My Heart,’ a captivating solo exhibition by Kenderson Noray, one of the nation’s most celebrated contemporary artists. The exhibition, which opens on October 28, promises to showcase the rhythm and emotional depth of Noray’s creative journey. Born and raised in Paramin, a village renowned for its steep hills, fertile lands, and vibrant Parang music, Noray’s art is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. His paintings vividly depict the serene charm of his people and the stunning landscapes of his homeland. Noray, a graduate of the University of the West Indies with a degree in visual arts, has honed his craft over the years, excelling in both painting and filmmaking. His works, characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant color palettes, pulsate with life and movement, reflecting his technical prowess and profound connection to his subjects. The exhibition draws inspiration from Rod Stewart’s song ‘Rhythm of My Heart,’ with Noray emphasizing the emotional intensity of the creative process. ‘Rhythm of My Heart’ continues Noray’s exploration of identity and spirit through vivid oil compositions featuring poui trees, the female form, and narrative scenes that resonate with cultural identity and shared human emotion. Noray’s art has garnered international acclaim, with his works featured in private collections across the US, UK, Canada, Germany, China, and the Caribbean. The exhibition will run until November 8, with free admission to all visitors. For more information, contact Horizons Art Gallery at 628-9769 or visit www.horizonsartgallery.com.