Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Cuba to host 2nd International Biennial of Political Humor

    Cuba to host 2nd International Biennial of Political Humor

    The National Council of Visual Arts (CNAP) of Cuba has officially launched its global call for entries for the 2nd International Biennial of Political Humor, inviting artists, illustrators, cartoonists, and humorists worldwide to submit works that critically examine globalization and its multifaceted impacts through satirical expression. The submission window remains open until March 31, offering a platform for creative commentary on contemporary global phenomena.

    Prospective participants must deliver their digital submissions in JPG format, meeting specific technical requirements of 300 dpi resolution with maximum side dimensions of 2400 pixels. All entries must be sent to the official biennial email address, bienalhumorpolitico2cuba@gmail.com, accompanied by comprehensive documentation including the creator’s full name, artistic pseudonym, country of origin, work title, complete residential address, email contact, and telephone number.

    An expert jury will evaluate all qualified entries to select three primary prize winners, with all decisions rendered as final. The most exceptional and representative pieces will receive prominent display in the main exhibition alongside complementary collateral shows throughout the event. Selected artworks may additionally feature in various promotional materials and official biennial publications, with full attribution to the originating artists and strict adherence to intellectual property protections.

    Organized through a collaborative effort between Cuba’s Ministry of Culture, the National Council of Visual Arts, and the cultural publication La Jiribilla, the biennial will incorporate both visual exhibitions and theoretical discussions. The programming will include specialized panels addressing pertinent issues within cartooning practice and the biennial’s thematic focus on globalization, creating a multidimensional dialogue between artistic expression and critical discourse.

  • Belize Flag Waved at Super Bowl: “Worth it 100%”

    Belize Flag Waved at Super Bowl: “Worth it 100%”

    In a striking display of cultural pride during one of America’s most-watched television events, an 18-year-old dancer captured international attention at Super Bowl LX. Nyah Davis, a recent high school graduate, prominently waved the Belizean flag during Bad Bunny’s electrifying halftime performance, creating an unforgettable moment of national representation before an estimated global audience of 135 million viewers.

    Positioned strategically at the forefront of the stage, Davis executed her carefully choreographed role with precision and passion. ‘Being right in front and center was very important to me,’ she recounted in a post-performance interview. ‘It was such an amazing moment to showcase my heritage on such a massive platform.’

    The path to the Super Bowl stage required rigorous dedication. Davis secured her position through a competitive audition process with a talent agency, followed by extensive rehearsals characterized by long hours and physical demands. She described the preparation as challenging but ultimately rewarding, emphasizing that every effort was ‘worth it 100%.’

    Despite her mixed Guatemalan and Belizean heritage, Davis made a conscious decision to honor her Belizean grandmother by carrying the Belizean flag. She credited her grandmother with maintaining her connection to cultural roots while growing up in the United States. ‘She made sure that I knew my culture,’ Davis explained. ‘I wanted to pay my respects to her and express gratitude that she didn’t let me forget my heritage.’

    Reflecting on her collaboration with the Puerto Rican superstar, Davis characterized Bad Bunny as remarkably humble and genuinely committed to creating a performance that celebrated the diversity and vibrancy of Latin American cultures. The experience, she noted, exceeded all expectations both professionally and personally.

  • Prize Giving Ceremony honours creativity at Walcott Expressions Competition

    Prize Giving Ceremony honours creativity at Walcott Expressions Competition

    Saint Lucia’s vibrant arts scene took center stage during the prestigious Walcott Expressions Competition Prize Giving Ceremony last Friday. The event, a cornerstone of the island’s annual Nobel Laureate Festival, honored exceptional creative works inspired by the legacy of Nobel laureate Sir Derek Walcott.

    Organized by the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), the ceremony showcased the remarkable talent emerging from Saint Lucia’s younger generation. CDF Executive Director Raymona Henry-Wynne emphasized the extraordinary diversity of submissions, noting that participants had “beautifully expressed their interpretation of Walcott’s work through numerous artistic forms.”

    The Foundation has strategically expanded its Nobel Laureate Month programming beyond the traditional Derek Walcott Lectures to embrace broader creative participation. Henry-Wynne encouraged all artists—including dancers, literary artists, and other creatives—to engage with this growing platform while urging parents to actively support their children’s artistic development and recognize the arts’ power to foster empathy.

    A particularly significant aspect of this year’s ceremony was the participation of inmates from Bordelais Correctional Facility. Minister for Crime Prevention and Conflict Resolution Jeremiah Norbert characterized the prison environment as “dynamic” and noted that while not all inmates are drawn to vocational programs, many possess strong artistic interests. He emphasized that artistic expression provides crucial emotional outlets and enables inmates to “see life differently.”

    Norbert commended the CDF for their courageous inclusion of the correctional facility in the program and expressed hope that this initiative would continue. The competition winners included Khadijah Halliday (first place), Ken Hardy (second), Nicole Monalisa Samuel (third), and Koffee Emanuel (People’s Choice Award), along with numerous other distinguished participants. Top winners received cash prizes of $500, $300, and $200 respectively.

  • “Shyne” Announces Return to Stage

    “Shyne” Announces Return to Stage

    In a surprising career pivot, Moses “Shyne” Barrow has declared his return to the music industry with a headline concert scheduled for May 2, 2026, in Brooklyn, New York. The event will commemorate the 25th anniversary of his debut album “Shyne,” marking a full-circle moment for the artist in the neighborhood where he first rose to prominence.

    Barrow’s journey has been anything but conventional. After achieving international fame in the late 1990s as a rapper, his career was interrupted by a conviction related to a 1999 nightclub shooting in New York. Following nearly nine years of incarceration, he faced deportation to his native Belize.

    In 2020, Barrow transitioned into politics, successfully capturing the Mesopotamia constituency and eventually ascending to the position of Leader of the Opposition. However, his political career encountered turbulence during the 2025 general election, where he lost his seat amid internal party leadership conflicts. This paved the way for Tracy Panton to make history as the first woman to lead a major political party and serve as Opposition Leader in Belize.

    Describing his musical return, Barrow characterized it as a “surreal return to the stage in the neighborhood where I grew up for a night of performances celebrating classic raw hip hop.” The concert promises to be both a nostalgic tribute to his musical roots and a symbolic rebirth following his recent political chapter.

  • Burning Flames to headline Love Fest this Valentine’s Day

    Burning Flames to headline Love Fest this Valentine’s Day

    Grenada’s premier Valentine’s Day celebration, Love Fest, is set to deliver an unforgettable musical experience on February 14, 2026, at the scenic Quarantine Point Recreational Park. The festival has confirmed legendary Antiguan Soca band Burning Flames as its headline act, alongside a diverse lineup of Caribbean talent that promises to transform the picturesque peninsula into a vibrant cultural hub.

    Adding significant star power to the event, Reggae artist and actor Matthew Malcolm—known for his appearance in the 2024 Bob Marley biopic ‘One Love’—joins the roster, enhancing the festival’s cross-cultural appeal. This strategic addition reflects Love Fest’s commitment to showcasing both established regional entertainers and Grenadian performers.

    Now firmly established on Grenada’s annual events calendar, the festival will feature five live acts spanning multiple genres including Soca, Reggae, Soul, Pop, R&B, and traditional steelpan performances. The complete lineup includes Sabrina Francis with the Treehouse Band, Rita & Ultimate Perfections Band, and the River Road Pan Wizards steel orchestra, complemented by DJ sets from Turbo, Graphix Sound, and Fearless Kevon.

    Festival Director Chrislyn Lashington emphasized the event’s evolving creative vision: ‘Love Fest continues to grow as a space where music, culture, and genuine connection converge. By welcoming regional entertainers alongside our Grenadian stars, we present a program that honors our rich Caribbean musical heritage while creating new cultural dialogues.’

    Beyond the musical performances, Love Fest 2026 will offer immersive lifestyle experiences including chocolate-making workshops, candle-making sessions, a curated food village, specialty cocktail bars, and thoughtfully designed décor that enhances the open-air waterfront setting. The event caters to individuals, couples, and groups seeking a distinctive Valentine’s celebration.

    Produced by Upstage, the festival is extending its impact through educational initiatives that facilitate cultural exchanges between visiting artists and Grenadian creatives and students. These programs encourage artistic development, cross-cultural understanding, and professional growth opportunities for emerging talents.

    The event enjoys support from multiple partners including the Lashington Agency, Grenada Office of Creative Affairs, Netherlands Insurance, Sunrise Airways, and the Grenada Tourism Authority, among others. Tickets are available through various physical outlets including Grenadian Optical, Esther’s Bar, and Kalico Supermarkets, as well as online via Eventbrite and Go2Fete.com.

  • Ladira Dyer is new Miss Teen Dominica

    Ladira Dyer is new Miss Teen Dominica

    In a dazzling display of talent and poise, Ladira Dyer from Isaiah Thomas Secondary School emerged victorious as the newly crowned Miss Teen Dominica 2026. The prestigious coronation ceremony unfolded on Sunday evening at the vibrant Windsor Park Sports Stadium, famously known as Carnival City, where five exceptional contestants competed for the coveted title.

    Dyer’s remarkable performance throughout the competition earned her multiple distinguished awards, including Best Speech, Best Spectacular Wear, and Best Talent, demonstrating her multifaceted excellence. Her triumph represents not only personal achievement but also brings honor to her educational institution.

    Marina Jno Baptiste of Operation Youth Quake claimed the first Runner-Up position, impressing judges with her elegance in evening wear and earning the Miss Amity award for her congenial spirit. Joyette Carbon from Portsmouth Secondary School secured the second Runner-Up recognition, rounding out the top three finalists.

    The competitive field also included Jeffrine Joseph representing Castle Bruce Secondary School and Janeece Williams of Goodwill Secondary School, both of whom delivered commendable performances throughout the event. The pageant showcased the extraordinary talents, intelligence, and cultural pride of Dominica’s youth, highlighting the promising future leadership of the Caribbean nation.

    This annual celebration of young women’s achievements continues to serve as a platform for personal development, cultural expression, and community engagement, reinforcing positive values among the island’s next generation.

  • Valentine morning Spice Isle Coffee & Canvas paint event

    Valentine morning Spice Isle Coffee & Canvas paint event

    Sans Souci Arts Studio artist Suelin Low Chew Tung has partnered with Spice Isle Coffee roasters to launch an innovative creative workshop series blending art education with coffee culture. The Coffee & Canvas sessions will run from February through April at Café Emporium in Grand Anse’s Galleria Mall, offering unique Thursday evening (4:30-6:30 PM) and Saturday morning (9:30-11:30 AM) experiences.

    Participants will enjoy a relaxed, pressure-free environment where no prior artistic experience is required. Each EC$95 workshop includes all necessary art supplies and a complimentary artisanal non-alcoholic beverage from Spice Isle Coffee. The sessions feature a brief educational component about coffee origins and processing, followed by guided mixed-media painting instruction accompanied by historical insights about Grenada.

    The series launches with a Valentine-themed event on February 14th, welcoming individuals, couples, friends, and family members (ages 18+). Subsequent workshops will feature seasonal themes including a Revolution remembrance event in March and Easter-themed sessions in April. Organizers emphasize the program’s dual purpose of fostering creativity while supporting local businesses, encouraging participants to patronize the coffee bar.

    With limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, interested participants must register in advance through the provided registration form. The initiative represents a growing trend of experiential entertainment combining culinary arts with creative expression in community settings.

  • Saint Lucian artistes unite for remix of ‘Praise Him to de Max

    Saint Lucian artistes unite for remix of ‘Praise Him to de Max

    The Saint Lucian gospel music landscape is witnessing a dynamic evolution with the launch of a revitalized remix of the acclaimed single “Praise Him to de Max.” Spearheaded by artist Berty James, professionally recognized as Humble Official, this new iteration represents a strategic fusion of established and emerging musical talent.

    This collaborative project unites James with gospel veteran Nintus Magre and promising newcomer Tally Boy, creating a multi-generational blend that underscores both artistic innovation and communal unity within the island’s gospel community. James characterizes the production as a significant milestone for his creative team, noting that the remix serves as an enhancement rather than a replacement of the original composition.

    The remix introduces distinct auditory dimensions through Magre’s powerful and seasoned vocal contributions, which provide profound emotional depth to the track. Simultaneously, Tally Boy injects contemporary vitality and youthful exuberance, creating a balanced sonic experience that appeals to diverse audiences. James emphasized the intentionality behind these collaborations, reflecting his commitment to showcasing both experienced artisans and rising stars within Saint Lucia’s music industry.

    Produced under James’ artistic direction, the project exemplifies a dedication to continuous creative and professional development. “Our fundamental objective remains constant growth, elevation, and improvement across all our endeavors,” James affirmed during the release announcement.

    While the original recording already enjoyed substantial listener engagement, the creative team anticipates the remix will deliver heightened impact through enhanced vocal arrangements and modernized production techniques. James publicly expressed hope that audiences would embrace this version even more enthusiastically than its predecessor.

    Beyond its musical merits, James highlighted the track’s inspirational messaging, encouraging widespread sharing of its positive spiritual content. The remix is currently accessible globally through YouTube, providing listeners with immediate access to this cultural and artistic expression of Saint Lucian gospel music.

  • It’s Gonna Be…Jimbolee

    It’s Gonna Be…Jimbolee

    Jamaican recording artist Jimbolee has launched the new year with significant momentum following the January 23rd release of his latest single “It’s Gonna Be Me” through his independent label Jlee Records. The reggae performer, born Philip Wilmot, has received overwhelming public endorsement for the track, with fans consistently praising its distinctive qualities and chart-topping potential during his public appearances.

    The artist’s musical journey began at just eight years old, developing his vocal talents through regular participation in church services—a common foundation for many Jamaican musicians. Demonstrating remarkable versatility, Jimbolee has expanded his artistic repertoire to include Spanish-language performances alongside his native reggae compositions.

    The official music video for “It’s Gonna Be Me” has already achieved substantial traction, surpassing 112,000 views across digital platforms. This visual component complements the track’s thematic focus on positivity, which Jimbolee identifies as the central philosophy governing his creative output.

    Reflecting on his artistic influences, the musician expressed particular admiration for late reggae icons Garnett Silk and Dennis Brown, noting that he would have welcomed collaboration opportunities with these positive-message advocates. Jimbolee characterizes music as a form of ministry, emphasizing his selective approach to partnerships based on an artist’s commitment to uplifting content and constructive influence on contemporary youth culture. While maintaining these standards, he remains open to working with emerging talents who share his positive artistic vision.

    This latest release follows previous projects including the single “I Wish” and the full-length album “Spanish Love,” further establishing Jimbolee’s growing discography within the international reggae landscape.

  • Toots and the Maytals strike gold in New Zealand with 54-46

    Toots and the Maytals strike gold in New Zealand with 54-46

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The iconic reggae anthem ’54-46 (That’s My Number)’ by Toots and the Maytals has achieved a significant commercial milestone, securing gold certification in New Zealand. This recognition arrives three years after the track received an equivalent honor in the United Kingdom.

    The New Zealand Music Industry official certification was awarded after the song amassed over 15,000 units in combined sales and streaming equivalents within the country. Originally pressed on a Beverly’s label vinyl 45 rpm single in 1968 under the production of legendary producer Leslie Kong, the track saw a digital re-release in 2004, greatly expanding its accessibility to a new generation of listeners.

    A definitive hit for the group, ’54-46′ dominated local charts upon its initial release, securing the #1 position and solidifying its status as a signature track in their extensive catalog. The song’s enduring cultural relevance is further evidenced by its prominent placements in major film and television productions. It featured in the sci-fi thriller ‘Repo Men,’ the critically acclaimed series ‘Narcos: Mexico,’ and provided the powerful soundtrack for the opening titles of Shane Meadows’ 2006 British drama ‘This is England.’

    The award comes as a posthumous tribute to the band’s frontman, the revered Frederick ‘Toots’ Hibbert, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 77. A foundational figure in popularizing reggae music globally, Hibbert’s legacy includes two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album: one in 2005 for ‘True Love’ and another, awarded posthumously, in 2021 for ‘Got to Be Tough.’