分类: entertainment

  • Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Dwight Laviscount Named Instrumentalist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a celebration of musical excellence, Dwight Laviscount has been crowned Instrumentalist of the Year at Antigua and Barbuda’s prestigious National Music Awards. The honor recognizes his transformative impact on the nation’s instrumental music landscape through performance, education, and community development.

    Laviscount emerged victorious from a competitive field of finalists that included distinguished musicians Dalma ‘Boogie’ George and Javonte Chattel. The selection committee particularly highlighted his pioneering work in establishing Integral Music—an innovative initiative dedicated to fostering musical collaboration and nurturing emerging talent across the Caribbean nation.

    The award ceremony spotlighted Laviscount’s extensive educational outreach, including his organization of specialized clinics for young musicians at multiple schools nationwide. His commitment to professional development remains ongoing through advanced studies at the renowned Berklee College of Music, while his performance career demonstrates remarkable versatility through cross-genre collaborations that have enriched Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural tapestry.

    During his acceptance speech, Laviscount emphasized the collective nature of artistic achievement. ‘This recognition extends beyond personal accomplishment—it’s about stewardship and building pathways for those who follow,’ he reflected. ‘We bear responsibility not merely to excel individually, but to establish legacies that empower future generations of musicians.’

    The artist gratefully acknowledged both divine guidance and the steadfast support of his wife, who attended the ceremony. The Instrumentalist of the Year award constitutes a cornerstone of the National Music Awards, which annually celebrates the diverse contributors—from performers to producers—who shape the nation’s vibrant music industry.

  • PMS Serenaders Win School Steel Band of the Year at National Music Awards

    PMS Serenaders Win School Steel Band of the Year at National Music Awards

    Princess Margaret School’s musical ensemble, The PMS Serenaders, achieved top honors at the National Music Awards ceremony on Tuesday evening, securing the prestigious title of School Steel Band of the Year. The annual event celebrates exceptional talent across Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant music industry, honoring artists, musicians, and cultural contributors nationwide.

    The Serenaders triumphed over fellow finalist Irene B. Williams Secondary School in a category dedicated to recognizing outstanding scholastic steel band performances. During the acceptance ceremony, a band representative emphasized the collective effort behind their victory, acknowledging the dedication of all members who shared the stage.

    ‘Good evening everyone. While you witnessed numerous performers tonight, I cannot accept this recognition alone—every member of our ensemble has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and hard work,’ the representative stated in an emotional address.

    The group outlined ambitious future plans extending beyond academic boundaries, expressing aspirations to function as a year-round community musical institution. ‘Our mission extends beyond school performances. We aim to champion music education broadly and establish ourselves as a continuous community band presence,’ the representative added, highlighting their commitment to musical development outside traditional educational frameworks.

    The National Music Awards ceremony serves as a cornerstone event for Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural calendar, systematically acknowledging excellence across multiple dimensions of the nation’s music industry while inspiring future generations of performers.

  • Antigua Carnival 2026 Official Launch Event Set for April 11!

    Antigua Carnival 2026 Official Launch Event Set for April 11!

    The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has unveiled plans for the official launch ceremony of Antigua Carnival 2026, scheduled for Saturday, April 11th at the Rising Sun Grounds in St. John’s. This inaugural event marks the commencement of the Caribbean’s premier summer festival under the evocative theme “Feel the Rhythm.”

    Breaking from traditional announcement formats, the Commission has designed an immersive cultural experience that transforms the venue into a vibrant Carnival Rhythm Village. From 2:00 PM onward, attendees will encounter an authentic festival environment featuring artisan vendors, culinary delights, and dedicated children’s activities. The afternoon program includes dynamic demonstrations of cultural drumming, steelband performances, and traditional iron band showcases accompanied by rhythmic DJ sets.

    As daylight fades, the celebration evolves into an elaborate stage production at 7:00 PM highlighting Antigua’s rich musical heritage. A special tribute segment will honor calypso legends King Short Shirt, Calypso Joe, King Obstinate, and King Swallow, recognizing their enduring influence on the festival’s identity. The evening will also showcase emerging talent including Junior Calypso Monarch Ruez Titre and Junior Soca Monarchs Ava Magloire and Jontae Francis.

    The presentation of the 2026 Queen of Carnival delegates alongside reigning queen Kia Kirwan will add pageantry to the festivities. Current champions including Calypso Monarch G’Eve, Road March Champion Soca Villan, and Party Monarch Tian Winter will deliver performances capturing the infectious energy of Antigua’s soca and calypso traditions.

    Commission Chairperson Elizabeth Makhoul emphasized the event’s significance: “This launch initiates a season celebrating our cultural essence. ‘Feel the Rhythm’ embodies the heartbeat of our identity, connecting generations through musical expression. The Rhythm Village provides complete immersion in Carnival’s sights and sounds as we embark toward Antigua Carnival 2026.”

    The free public event represents a strategic initiative to foster cultural preservation, national pride, and creative industry development. Rather than merely hosting festivities, the 2026 Carnival aims to embody the rhythmic soul of Antiguan heritage through participatory celebration.

  • Haitian Chef Carline Irantus inducted into the Culinary Academy of France

    Haitian Chef Carline Irantus inducted into the Culinary Academy of France

    In a landmark achievement for Caribbean cuisine, Haitian culinary virtuoso Carline Irantus has been formally inducted into the esteemed Académie Culinaire de France during 2026 induction ceremonies. This historic recognition marks the second time Chef Irantus has received this distinguished honor, placing her among an exclusive cohort of twenty internationally renowned chefs selected for their exceptional contributions to gastronomic excellence.

    As a pioneering force in contemporary Haitian cuisine throughout Europe, Chef Irantus has established an unparalleled record of accomplishment, distinguished by an extraordinary collection of medals, awards, and international recognitions. Her culinary journey represents a remarkable narrative of cultural ambassadorship, technical mastery, and innovative interpretation of traditional Haitian flavors within global culinary contexts.

    The recent induction ceremony not only celebrated her inclusion among the Academy’s membership but also elevated her to the prestigious position of Auditor, acknowledging both her technical expertise and leadership within international culinary circles. This dual recognition underscores the profound impact of her work in elevating Haitian gastronomy to unprecedented global prominence.

    The Network of Haitian Women Role Models and Inspirers (REFEHMI) has celebrated Chef Irantus’s achievement as emblematic of Haitian excellence, noting her unique status as the only Haitian woman to attain such comprehensive international acclaim in the culinary arts. Her accomplishments serve as a powerful testament to the creative genius, resilience, and determination that characterize Haitian women’s contributions to global cultural landscapes.

    This recognition transcends individual achievement, representing a significant milestone for Haitian cultural diplomacy and the international appreciation of Caribbean culinary traditions. Through her work, Chef Irantus has effectively expanded the global understanding of Haitian cuisine while simultaneously honoring the nation’s rich culinary heritage and demonstrating its capacity for innovation and excellence on the world stage.

  • Charity Henry to represent Antigua and Barbuda at international pageant in St. Martin This Weekend

    Charity Henry to represent Antigua and Barbuda at international pageant in St. Martin This Weekend

    Charity Henry, an accomplished makeup artist and business owner from Antigua and Barbuda, has been officially selected as the national representative for the upcoming BTA 8th Annual Miss International Elegant Mothers Pageant. The prestigious event is scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026, in the dual-nation island of St. Maarten/St. Martin.

    Beyond the glamour of the competition, Henry brings a profound personal mission to the international stage. As a mother of two daughters, she aims to leverage this platform to demonstrate the powerful combination of maternal strength, professional confidence, and unwavering determination. Her participation transcends the pursuit of a crown, focusing instead on inspiring the next generation of young women to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

    Henry’s journey to the international pageant stage is rooted in a distinguished history of leadership and beauty industry expertise. A native Antiguan, she first exhibited her leadership capabilities as Head Girl at All Saints Secondary School. Her entrepreneurial spirit emerged early when she entered the beauty sector at just 13 years old, subsequently cultivating a thriving career that spans over a decade in both makeup artistry and business development.

    Her pageant pedigree includes significant prior achievements, having claimed the Miss Teenage 2017 title while representing her secondary school. She further solidified her pageant prowess by winning the Miss Labour Queen 2022 crown while representing Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the St. John’s City West constituency, demonstrating her deep connections to both community and national leadership.

  • 18 auditions for Carnival Queen as judges face toughest cut yet

    18 auditions for Carnival Queen as judges face toughest cut yet

    Saint Lucia’s National Carnival Queen Pageant has encountered an unprecedented challenge as organizers face the daunting task of selecting merely seven finalists from a record-breaking pool of 18 exceptionally qualified contestants. The auditions held at Castries’ Cultural Centre on March 8 showcased what officials described as one of the most impressive arrays of talent in recent memory, with participants demonstrating remarkable intelligence, cultural awareness, and stage presence that exceeded expectations.

    Tamara Gibson, Chair of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee, expressed both excitement and sympathy for the judges’ predicament, noting: ‘We witnessed an unprecedented 18 participants, all remarkably strong, intelligent, and beautiful young Saint Lucians filled with hope for this carnival season. The selection process proves exceptionally challenging given their collective excellence.’

    Trevor King, Chair of the National Carnival Queen Pageant Committee, observed that many contestants displayed evident growth and refinement from previous auditions, indicating dedicated preparation. ‘They gave a good representation… I think we’re going to get a good crop of young ladies,’ King remarked, predicting an exceptionally competitive final round.

    The pageant, now in its 72nd consecutive year, represents one of Saint Lucia’s most enduring cultural institutions. What began as a traditional beauty competition has evolved into a comprehensive platform celebrating talent, intellect, and cultural expression. King emphasized the significance of this longevity: ‘Seventy-two years is a considerable duration for any pageant to sustain operations… its continuity stands as testament to our creative spirit.’

    Organizers have hinted at unexpected innovations for this year’s production, though specific details remain confidential. ‘This year we have a surprise element that I cannot disclose at this juncture,’ King revealed, generating anticipation for the upcoming event.

    Contestants undergo evaluation across multiple segments including interview techniques, talent demonstrations, swimwear, and evening wear presentations, allowing comprehensive assessment of their confidence, creativity, and awareness of national issues.

  • Shaneil Muir ready to excite at All Pisces Born party

    Shaneil Muir ready to excite at All Pisces Born party

    MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — The ninth edition of the acclaimed All Pisces Born celebration promises extraordinary entertainment this Saturday as dancehall sensation Shaneil Muir takes center stage at the sophisticated Da’Vue venue. The emerging superstar, renowned for her chart-dominating singles ‘Top Gyal,’ ‘Exclusive,’ and ‘Hype and Boasy,’ brings her dynamic performance energy to her hometown audience amidst the stunning 360-degree panoramas of Montego Bay’s Hip Strip.

    Muir expressed particular enthusiasm about her homecoming performance, noting: “The energy in Montego Bay carries a distinct vibration. I’m thrilled to reconnect with my supporters through both recent releases and established favorites—this night will be unforgettable.”

    Event organizers at Chic Entertainment have reimagined this year’s gathering with an elegant ‘All White’ dress code, targeting Jamaica’s western fashion-conscious crowd. Andre Dyer, Director of Chic Entertainment, emphasized their commitment to excellence: “Our patrons expect premium experiences. Da’Vue’s breathtaking setting, combined with superior culinary offerings, beverage services, and state-of-the-art production, ensures maximum comfort and enjoyment.”

    The entertainment lineup extends beyond Muir’s performance, featuring top local DJ ensembles including Jigga, YM Entertainment, and Trending Lifestyle. Previous editions have showcased major acts like Pablo YG and Agent Sasco, establishing the event as a staple in Jamaica’s entertainment calendar.

    Tickets are available for pre-purchase at $3,500 JMD from El Paso and 876 Beachwear outlets in Montego Bay, increasing to $5,000 JMD at the entrance. A portion of the proceeds will support the Andre Dyer Foundation, extending the event’s impact beyond musical celebration into community philanthropy.

  • Not abandoning MoBay

    Not abandoning MoBay

    Jamaica’s premier musical showcase, Reggae Sumfest, is undergoing a transformative evolution for its 2026 edition. The festival traditionally celebrated as ‘the greatest reggae show on earth’ will transition from its longstanding Montego Bay venue to Plantation Cove in St Ann, featuring a consolidated single-night format that has generated significant anticipation among global reggae enthusiasts.

    Downsound Entertainment CEO Joe Bogdanovich clarified this strategic relocation emphasizes enhancement rather than abandonment. ‘Montego Bay remains our spiritual home—the foundation where Sumfest began and thrived,’ Bogdanovich asserted. ‘This move responds to overwhelming demand. Our growth necessitated a venue capable of accommodating expanded audiences while elevating the fan experience.’

    The repositioning enables one of dancehall’s most monumental moments: the historic reunion of rival factions Gully and Gaza, represented by icons Vybz Kartel and Mavado. Bogdanovich characterized this booking as organic rather than forced: ‘The timing aligned perfectly. Our previous Freedom Street event demonstrated music’s power to unite, and this reunion will similarly resonate through the culture. We foster positive energy, not divisive narratives.’

    Organizers promise exceptional value alongside the headline performance, with early ticket sales indicating robust demand. Beyond the main event, supplementary experiences include an All-White party at Pier One and additional festivities throughout festival season. Comprehensive logistics planning involves collaboration with police and fire departments to address traffic management and safety protocols. Gates will open at 4:00 PM, with officials encouraging early attendance for this landmark celebration of Jamaican music heritage.

  • Skippa and Top Banks to excite patrons at Jaii Frais and DJ Mac’s Bashment

    Skippa and Top Banks to excite patrons at Jaii Frais and DJ Mac’s Bashment

    Sabina Park is poised to transform into an epicenter of authentic Jamaican culture this Friday night as Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum presents its highly anticipated Bashment event. The celebratory gathering, orchestrated by renowned podcaster Jaii Frais and top producer DJ Mac, will feature electrifying performances from chart-topping dancehall artist Skippa and viral social media sensation turned recording artist Top Banks.

    The event signifies a strategic cultural investment by the long-established rum brand, which recently appointed DJ Mac as its official ambassador. Kerry Ann Bryan, Brand Manager for Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, emphasized the company’s deep commitment to authentic Jamaican expression. “Bashment represents an authentic celebration of the music, energy and people that shape our identity,” Bryan stated, highlighting the dual celebration of DJ Mac’s ambassadorship and Jaii Frais’s innovative contributions to entertainment.

    Patrons can anticipate a fully immersive brand experience featuring signature cocktail offerings alongside vibrant performances. The musical lineup promises to deliver high-energy entertainment with Skippa performing his popular hits including ‘WYFL,’ ‘Pizzaman,’ and ‘Duppy Man Style.’ Top Banks is expected to amplify the excitement with his trending tracks ‘Papers’ and ‘Yuh Think Ehh Tek Bwoy,’ both of which have garnered significant digital traction.

    The auditory landscape will be engineered by an ensemble of premier selectors including A-Team, DJ Banka, Kevi Di Kinetic, ZJ Romzi, and Bishop Escobar, ensuring a continuous flow of dancehall rhythms throughout the evening. This collaboration between corporate sponsorship and cultural creators exemplifies Wray & Nephew’s ongoing mission to champion the innovators who propel Jamaican culture forward on both local and international stages.

  • Shaggy praises Grammys as huge platform

    Shaggy praises Grammys as huge platform

    International recording artist Shaggy has emphatically defended the prestige of the Grammy Awards amidst ongoing debates within reggae music circles regarding its outcomes. The two-time Grammy winner, in a recent interview, dismissed claims that artists don’t value the recognition, stating that anyone who claims not to care about the Grammys is being dishonest.

    ‘It’s great to be recognized by the highest level of your peers. It is a fantastic feeling,’ Shaggy expressed, drawing from his personal experience of winning in 1996 for ‘Boombastic’ and again in 2019 for his collaborative album with Sting. He emphasized that while he previously downplayed the awards after numerous nominations, his recent victory proved exceptionally rewarding.

    The artist addressed the criticism surrounding selection processes, noting that many complain about results without participating in the voting system. ‘You have to be a registered voter and part of the process to influence outcomes,’ he advised, encouraging broader industry participation.

    Simultaneously, Shaggy announced the upcoming release of his new studio album ‘Lottery’ on May 15th, produced through a partnership between VP Records and his own Ranch Entertainment label. The project features collaborations with prominent artists including Anthony Hamilton, Jeremih, and Robin Thicke.

    The album’s title reflects the risk-taking mentality that propelled Shaggy from Kingston, Jamaica to global superstardom. Throughout his decades-long career, his creative gambles have resulted in extraordinary success: over 40 million albums sold, multiple Grammy awards, and a catalog that transcends generations.

    The lead single ‘Looking Lovely’ featuring Robin Thicke merges Shaggy’s distinctive Caribbean cadence with Thicke’s smooth R&B style, creating an infectious celebratory anthem. Largely self-produced with long-time collaborator Shane Hoosong, the album builds upon Shaggy’s established sonic blueprint under the management of Martin Kierszenbaum/Cherrytree Music Company.

    Shaggy currently maintains chart presence with ‘Boom Body’ featuring Akon and Aidonia, sitting at #31 on Billboard’s Rhythmic Airplay chart—his second Billboard charting single within the past year following last summer’s ‘Til A Mawnin’ with Sting.