Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Cabinet Says One Nation Festival Was Well Organized

    Cabinet Says One Nation Festival Was Well Organized

    The Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet has formally recognized the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival as an exemplary model of event organization, setting new standards for cultural productions within the nation. During Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, conveyed the government’s commendation of Festival Minister Daryll Matthew for the flawlessly executed two-day event.

    Merchant characterized the festival as “a shining example of excellence in planning, coordination, and execution,” with Cabinet members unanimously regarding it as among the most impeccably organized festivals ever hosted in Antigua and Barbuda. The government’s assessment highlighted how the event’s operational framework, audience turnout, and artistic presentations demonstrated clear strategic vision, effective leadership, and meticulous preparation.

    The festival’s success extended beyond logistical achievements, serving as a catalyst for national unity and cultural pride. According to official statements, the event showcased the nation’s capability to produce world-class cultural experiences while simultaneously strengthening community bonds and elevating the country’s profile as a premier destination for entertainment and cultural tourism.

    Cabinet members extended particular recognition to Festival Commission Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth McCool and her entire team, acknowledging their dedication and professionalism as instrumental components of the event’s triumph. The government also expressed gratitude to the thousands of attendees whose enthusiastic participation and strong turnout generated the festival’s vibrant atmosphere and contributed substantially to its overall success.

    Appreciation was further directed toward service providers, security personnel, vendors, technical crews, volunteers, and support staff whose collective efforts ensured a safe, well-managed, and enjoyable experience for all patrons. Regarding future developments, government officials confirmed there are presently no discussions about expanding the festival or relocating its venue, asserting that the current format possesses the ideal components for continued success.

  • Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant set for Feb. 7

    Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant set for Feb. 7

    The cultural landscape of St. John’s Rural West is set to be revitalized with the official return of its longstanding beauty pageant tradition. Scheduled for February 7, 2026, the Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant will make its celebrated comeback under the evocative theme “Rekindled,” signaling the renewal of a cherished constituency institution dedicated to cultural expression and community pride.

    The evening event will commence at 7 p.m. within the Multipurpose Cultural Centre, serving as both a talent showcase and cultural revival. According to event coordinators, the pageant’s reinstatement aims to honor local artistry and restore a significant platform for community representation after a period of absence.

    Ticket acquisition is available for $40 at designated community outlets including Cool & Smooth, Bridge Service Station, Mr. Garfield, and Roti King. Cool & Smooth has been announced as the title sponsor for the occasion.

    The production is organized in partnership with the Fire Phoenix Foundation and will operate under the patronage of Senator Michael Joseph. Organizers characterize the 2026 edition as a renaissance of constituency pageantry, emphasizing the dual celebration of tradition and civic engagement through this eagerly anticipated return.

  • Reigning Carnival Queen Kia Kirwan to Compete for Miss OECS Title in Dominica

    Reigning Carnival Queen Kia Kirwan to Compete for Miss OECS Title in Dominica

    Kia Kirwan, the reigning Carnival Queen of Antigua and Barbuda, is poised to represent her nation in the prestigious Miss OECS pageant. The regional competition is scheduled for January 30th in Dominica, where delegates from across the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States will convene at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium.

    Kirwan brings a formidable pedigree to the contest, having previously secured the Miss Antigua and Barbuda Labour Queen title in 2016. Her participation marks a significant moment as she endeavors to claim the regional crown currently held by Dominica’s Kyanna Dyer. The event symbolizes cultural celebration and diplomatic camaraderie among Eastern Caribbean nations, showcasing not only beauty but also intelligence and cultural awareness among its participants.

    The Miss OECS pageant serves as a platform for promoting regional integration and highlighting the diverse talents within the member states. Kirwan’s journey from national titleholder to regional contender underscores the interconnected nature of Caribbean cultural festivities and the importance of such events in fostering unity and shared identity across the islands.

  • Vote for Antigua and Barbuda’s Charity Henry at International Mothers Pageant

    Vote for Antigua and Barbuda’s Charity Henry at International Mothers Pageant

    The digital campaign for the 8th Annual Miss International Elegant Mothers Pageant has entered a crucial phase, with global supporters mobilizing behind national representatives. Charity Henry, the delegate from Antigua and Barbuda, has emerged as a focal point in the online voting process that will significantly influence the competition’s outcome.

    The pageant’s official social media channels have featured Henry in a maternal portrait alongside her daughter, formally initiating the digital voting mechanism. Each engagement with the official post translates into a direct vote, with these digital interactions carrying substantial competitive weight. The contestant accumulating the most online support will receive a decisive 10-point advantage ahead of the final coronation event.

    The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the ALEEZE Event Hall in Madame Estate. The evening will commence with an elegant red-carpet ceremony at 7:00 p.m., followed by the main presentation at 8:00 p.m. Ticket pricing structure offers advance general admission at US$30, while premium VIP access is available for US$50, including reserved seating and complimentary refreshments. Prospective attendees should note that door prices will reflect a surcharge compared to advance purchases.

    This international platform celebrates maternal elegance and cultural representation, with Henry carrying the aspirations of Antigua and Barbuda onto the global stage. Supporters continue to amplify their digital efforts as the voting deadline approaches.

  • Ivy 23

    Ivy 23

    Kingston’s dining scene has been electrified by the arrival of Ivy 23, a restaurant that masterfully combines atmospheric design with extraordinary culinary innovation. Located at 23 Lady Musgrave Road, this establishment from the Tamarind and Saffron restaurant group has quickly become a destination for discerning diners seeking both exceptional ambiance and groundbreaking cuisine.

    The moment guests cross the threshold, they encounter a vibrant Miami-inspired atmosphere pulsating with sophisticated energy. This carefully crafted setting provides the perfect backdrop for romantic evenings or memorable gatherings with friends, generating palpable anticipation even before the first course arrives.

    Where Ivy 23 truly distinguishes itself is through its revolutionary approach to fusion cuisine. The menu represents a bold international journey, seamlessly integrating robust Indian and Asian flavors into dishes that feel simultaneously familiar and daringly original. Each plate arrives as a visual masterpiece, with flavors that deliver spectacular complexity without overwhelming the palate.

    The culinary experience begins with expertly crafted cocktails like the perfectly balanced Amaretto Sour. Starters include succulent red curry shrimp dumplings that dissolve on the tongue, the multi-layered Wild One flatbread, and irresistibly flavorful charred corn tacos.

    Main courses continue the gastronomic excellence with Hakka noodles accompanied by tender chicken, silky house-made breadfruit gnocchi that redefines comfort food, and Sichuan chicken featuring that distinctive numbing spice that creates addictive eating. The chocolate dessert provides a final note of pure decadence—rich, velvety, and perfectly concluding the dining experience.

    Service matches the culinary excellence with warm, attentive, and sophisticated hospitality. The restaurant operates Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM, and Sundays from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. With dinner for four including drinks approximately $27,365, reservations are strongly recommended via phone (876-995-5101) or Instagram (@ivy23jamaica).

  • Gramps Morgan upbeat as Sunshine Girl goes gold

    Gramps Morgan upbeat as Sunshine Girl goes gold

    Roy ‘Gramps’ Morgan of the renowned Morgan Heritage collective has shared captivating insights into the spontaneous creation of J Boog’s hit single ‘Sunshine Girl,’ recently certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The certification recognizes the track’s remarkable achievement of exceeding 500,000 units in combined sales and streaming equivalents.

    In an exclusive interview with the Jamaica Observer, Gramps recounted the extraordinary night following an awards ceremony when the song came to life. ‘It was an incredible night after an award show,’ he recalled. ‘The owner of Washhouse Records, Jonas Teel, suggested going into the studio, and I immediately agreed.’

    The creative process unfolded during a spontaneous journey across Williamsburg Bridge en route to Manhattan’s recording facilities. Gramps collaborated with his late brother Peetah Morgan to compose the entire song during this transit. ‘By the time we arrived, the song was complete, and we taught the artist the composition upon reaching the studio,’ Gramps revealed, emphasizing the joyful cultural exchange between Polynesian and Jamaican influences evident in the lyrics.

    Recorded at Wyclef Jean’s New York studio, the track represents a significant milestone in Gramps’ production career. ‘This is an incredible achievement,’ he expressed. ‘When I produced the song, it centered on cultural blending and sharing Jamaica’s musical history. This is a ska track, not conventional reggae, and we aimed to educate the artist about musical roots.’

    The song appears on J Boog’s 2011 album ‘Backyard Boogie,’ which immediately topped Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart upon its October release. The album features notable collaborations including Tarrus Riley on ‘She Give Me Lovin’ and contains recordings from Jamaica’s Digital B and Big Yard studios. Another track, ‘Let’s Do It Again,’ achieved platinum certification in February 2024.

    Gramps is currently promoting his new single ‘Where My Heart Belongs,’ a tribute to Jamaica intended to comfort listeners following Hurricane Melissa. The song will appear on his forthcoming untitled solo album, though no release date has been confirmed. Recent performances include shows in St. Croix with Morgan Heritage and a solo appearance in Antigua, continuing his musical journey despite the recent passing of his brother Peetah Morgan in February 2024.

  • Studio Joli launches new year with Canvas Caribbean

    Studio Joli launches new year with Canvas Caribbean

    Port of Spain, Trinidad – Studio Joli launches its 2026 programming with “Artistic Expressions,” a vibrant multidisciplinary exhibition showcasing the works of six distinguished artists from the Canvas Caribbean collective. The exhibition, running from January 21 to February 2, presents a diverse array of artistic mediums including silk florals, acrylic wildlife portraits, faceted copper sculptures, and watercolor depictions of everyday life.

    Founded in 2004 by University of the West Indies visual arts graduates, Canvas Caribbean brings together accomplished artists including Leona Fabien, Adele Bynoe, Raymond Alexander, Kathy Farabi, Tricia Ward, and Vejaya Mungal. Each artist contributes unique perspectives rooted in Caribbean culture and personal artistic journeys.

    Adele Bynoe draws inspiration from multiple art forms including dance, music, and drama, synthesizing these influences into her visual creations. Tricia Ward explores organic and man-made themes through semi-abstract interpretations inspired by Carnival’s vibrant colors and textures.

    Kathy Farabi, who relocated from England to Trinidad and Tobago in 1978, expresses her profound connection to her adopted homeland through paintings that reflect both her technical training and emotional attachment to Caribbean life.

    Raymond Alexander, an educator with over three decades of experience and dual degrees in English literature and visual arts, demonstrates mastery across acrylic and watercolor mediums, selecting styles that optimally communicate his intended emotional impact.

    Vejaya Mungal showcases remarkable versatility across acrylics, watercolors, textile design, and three-dimensional works, with her art deeply informed by cultural rhythms, historical layers, and personal narratives within her community.

    Leona Fabien presents wearable art through silk creations and mixed media paintings inspired by Caribbean flora and fauna, allowing viewers to literally embrace the islands’ delicate yet vibrant beauty.

    The collective maintains a shared mission to exhibit collaboratively while providing mutual encouragement and support throughout their artistic careers. The exhibition opens January 21 with a reception from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 21 Henry Pierre Street, St. James, continuing through February 2 during regular gallery hours.

  • Vybz Kartel, Masicka and Shenseea vie for MOBO Best Caribbean Act award

    Vybz Kartel, Masicka and Shenseea vie for MOBO Best Caribbean Act award

    The prestigious 2026 MOBO Awards has officially announced its nominees for the fiercely competitive Best Caribbean Music Act category, setting the stage for a grand celebration of Black musical excellence. The distinguished shortlist features an impressive array of talent, including dancehall titan Vybz Kartel, chart-topping artists Masicka and Shenseea, acclaimed singer Lila Ike, emerging sensation Ayetian, and Trinidad’s soca powerhouse Yung Bredda.

    Marking its monumental 30th anniversary, the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards continues its enduring legacy of honoring and elevating Black music and culture across a diverse spectrum of genres. The upcoming ceremony is scheduled to be held at Manchester’s state-of-the-art Co-op Live Arena in the United Kingdom on March 26.

    In a remarkable showcase of artistic prowess, British artists Olivia Dean and Little Simz, alongside Jim Legxacy and KWN, have emerged as this year’s frontrunners, each securing an impressive four nominations across various genre categories.

    The nomination holds particular significance for Vybz Kartel, who was the recipient of the esteemed MOBO Impact Award at last year’s ceremony. This marks his return to the MOBO nominations list after previous recognitions in the Best Reggae Act category in 2004, 2009, and 2010. Notably, the category itself underwent a significant rebranding in 2022, evolving from Best Reggae Act to its current designation as Best Caribbean Music Act, reflecting the awards’ commitment to broader regional representation.

    Adding to his accolades, Vybz Kartel has also garnered a nomination in the highly coveted Best International Act category.

    For dancehall superstar Shenseea, this nomination represents her fifth MOBO recognition, further cementing her status as a consistent force in the industry. Her previous triumphs include winning Best Reggae Act in 2021 and Best Caribbean Act in 2025, alongside a Best International Act nomination in 2020.

    This year’s shortlist also highlights several pivotal career milestones: Masicka celebrates his inaugural MOBO nomination, while Grammy-nominated artist Lila Ike secures her third nomination following previous nods in 2020 and 2021. The nomination marks a significant breakthrough for newcomer Ayetian, who is poised to release a new EP in February. Similarly, Trinidad’s Yung Bredda earns his first MOBO recognition following the massive regional success of his hit soca single ‘The Greatest Bend Ova,’ which dominated airwaves throughout the past year.

  • Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Queen’s Hall Gardens in St. Ann’s transformed into a vibrant epicenter of Caribbean musical excellence on January 10 as 2024 Road March champion Mical Teja presented his highly anticipated “Mas The Experience” concert. The event showcased an extraordinary gathering of soca royalty that created an unforgettable night of cultural celebration.

    The stellar lineup featured legendary performers including Destra Garcia, whose powerful vocals energized the crowd, and Ronnie McIntosh, the 1995 Soca Monarch winner who demonstrated his enduring stage presence. Nadia Batson brought her distinctive singer-songwriter artistry to the stage while Patrice Roberts delivered a captivating performance that highlighted her status as a soca icon.

    International flavors enhanced the evening with Edwin Yearwood from Barbados representing the regional soca community alongside rising stars including Aaron “Voice” St Louis, Karene Asche, and GBM Nutron. The diverse musical offerings created a dynamic rhythm that kept attendees immersed in the celebration throughout the night.

    Photographer Faith Ayoung documented the spectacle, capturing both the artists’ electrifying performances and the audience’s enthusiastic participation. Images reveal veteran performer Ronnie McIntosh sharing the stage with Mical Teja, Destra Garcia commanding attention with her powerful presence, and patrons fully embracing the festive atmosphere.

    The event served as both a victory celebration for Teja’s Road March achievement and a testament to soca music’s enduring appeal. From Andre “Viking Ding Dong” Houlder’s energetic performance to Devon “Lyrikal” Martin’s interaction with fans, the concert exemplified the communal spirit that defines Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival culture.

    Audience members appeared thoroughly captivated by the productions, with photographs capturing moments of pure enjoyment as concert-goers danced and celebrated throughout the evening. The successful gathering reinforced Mical Teja’s position within the soca landscape while honoring the genre’s rich legacy through its multidisciplinary presentations.

  • Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    The vibrant sounds of youthful musical excellence will resonate through Port of Spain this weekend as 22 emerging steelbands compete in the National Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious event, scheduled for January 18 at Queen’s Park Savannah, features both the established Under 21 category and a newly introduced Under 19 division that resulted from recent educational disputes.

    The creation of the Under 19 category emerged as an innovative solution after northern Trinidad school steelbands withdrew from the Ministry of Education’s competition. These institutions protested the relocation of the Schools Panorama finals from Port of Spain to Skinner Park in San Fernando, citing prohibitive transportation costs that exceeded potential prize earnings. Recognizing the immense dedication of students who had been rehearsing since August 2025, Pan Trinbago intervened by establishing this complementary competition platform.

    Ten ensembles will contend in the Under 21 category, while twelve bands make their debut in the pioneering Under 19 classification. All finalists earned their positions through rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds conducted nationwide in local pan yards and community spaces.

    The performance order places BATCE Steel as the opening act for the Under 19 segment, followed by ensembles including Eldo East ‘Blue’ Steel Orchestra, East Port of Spain Stars Steel Orchestra, and BARS of Steel. The category concludes with San Juan North Stars Steel Orchestra, after which Katzenjammers Youths will initiate the Under 21 competition.

    Qualifying rounds revealed impressive musical prowess, with Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra leading the rankings at 281 points for their interpretation of Crazy’s ‘Band From Space’. BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra followed closely with 278 points for ‘Jamtown’, while T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra secured third position with 275 points for Baron’s ‘This Melody Sweet’.

    Pan Trinbago’s official statement celebrated the participants, noting: ‘Your talent, discipline, and passion continue to inspire the future of the steelband movement. We are proud of both categories of youth of steel, whose commitment and excellence strengthen the legacy of our national musical instrument.’

    The organization extended best wishes to all finalists, encouraging them to ‘shine on’ during this celebration of musical excellence that promises to showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage through its next generation of pannists.