分类: entertainment

  • Ce’Cile looks to Europe

    Ce’Cile looks to Europe

    Jamaican dancehall artist and producer Ce’Cile continues to maintain remarkable international momentum, with Germany standing as one of her most devoted markets. Since the late 2000s, she has cultivated an exceptionally strong fanbase across Europe, performing in Germany annually with consistently enthusiastic reception.

    In a recent interview, Ce’Cile confirmed her return to Europe for the 2026 summer festival season, with German dates already secured and additional European stops being finalized. Beyond her touring schedule, the artist revealed plans for an upcoming EP project that will potentially include cover versions of songs that have personally resonated with her throughout her career.

    The musical force behind mainstream chart successes in Germany including ‘When You’re Gone’ and ‘Hot Like We,’ Ce’Cile has simultaneously maintained her dancehall credibility through collaborations with artists like Sean Paul on ‘Can You Do Di Wuk’ and through solo releases such as ‘Cheaters Revenge.’

    While expanding her production work with emerging artists like Soun Bwoii and Tanzie, Ce’Cile clarified that she focuses exclusively on production rather than artist management. Additionally, she remains committed to humanitarian efforts, recently partnering with Olympic athlete Danielle Williams to provide hurricane relief to affected communities in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica.

    The artist’s commercial success was further highlighted by the recent triple platinum certification in the United Kingdom for her 2010 collaboration ‘Gold Dust’ with DJ Fresh, which has surpassed 1.8 million units in combined sales and streams.

  • Youth voices take centre stage at Bocas Spoken Word Intercol finals

    Youth voices take centre stage at Bocas Spoken Word Intercol finals

    Amaru Johnson, a 16-year-old student from Naparima Boys’ College, has claimed victory at the inaugural Bocas Spoken Word Intercol Finals with a provocative performance examining artificial intelligence’s impact on creative expression. His award-winning piece, ‘Are You Another Reporter,’ earned him the 2025 championship title along with a $5,000 cash prize and a library donation for his school.

    The December 10 finale, hosted by Bocas Lit Fest at San Fernando City Hall, showcased Trinidad and Tobago’s most promising young poetic talents after a six-week nationwide program. The competition culminated from the We Lit School Tour that engaged over 600 students across 11 schools through interactive workshops led by established spoken word artists.

    Kimani Vasconcellos of El Dorado East Secondary School secured second place with his work ‘Mediocrity is the Poison to Success,’ receiving $2,500 and a library donation. Megan Perry from Bishop’s High School in Tobago captured third place with ‘Tobacco Obstructed View,’ awarded $1,500 and a similar library contribution.

    The competition featured 15 finalists selected from 41 participants across nine schools, each delivering powerful performances exploring themes of identity, community, ambition, and national consciousness. Participants received coaching from renowned spoken word artists including First Citizens National Poetry Slam winners Camryn Bruno, Javaughn Forde, and Derron Sandy.

    Judging panel chief Seth Sylvester, alongside Ministry of Education representative Ambika Isaac and 2Cents Movement co-founder Jean-Claude Cournand, evaluated performances based on literary merit, delivery technique, and content substance. The program, supported by JB Fernandes Memorial Trust and endorsed by the Ministry of Education, represents a significant investment in developing youth literary arts and cultural leadership.

    Marielle Forbes, Bocas Lit Fest youth programming manager, emphasized the program’s broader significance: ‘Beyond performance, it nurtures personal confidence, critical thinking and early professional development, empowering the next generation of creative and cultural leaders.’ The event marks a new chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s growing youth spoken word movement.

  • Nicholas Huggins’ Tropical Dreams explores life, memories

    Nicholas Huggins’ Tropical Dreams explores life, memories

    PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – Award-winning Trinidadian artist Nicholas Huggins unveils his culminating artistic trilogy with “Tropical Dreams,” a landmark exhibition running December 16-20 at the Art Society of Trinidad and Tobago in Federation Park. The 35-year-old St. Ann’s resident presents 64 meticulously crafted pieces that serve as a visual chronicle of Caribbean life and memory, completing a thematic journey that began with “Up to Now” (2023) and “Field Trip” (2024).

    Huggins, who leads the acclaimed Backyard Design Company, has achieved international recognition through prestigious accolades including multiple gold and silver Addy awards and the distinguished Charlie Award for his steelpan-themed Google Doodle. His large-scale installations grace prominent public spaces including C3 Centre, East Gates Mall, and the Phase 2 panyard, while his creative vision has extended to album artwork for Kes The Band.

    The exhibition emerges from an intensive daily practice Huggins initiated on January 1, 2025, producing over 300 artworks shared through his Instagram platform. “This collection functions as a visual journal of my year,” Huggins revealed, noting the inclusion of 12 still life compositions featuring quintessential Trinidadian household items – Angostura bitters, local fruits, vegetables, and Crix crackers – designed to evoke shared cultural experiences.

    In a significant artistic evolution, Huggins transitions from digital mastery to traditional mediums, showcasing paintings, ink drawings, watercolors, and pastels. A centerpiece installation features 25 small-format works arranged as a cohesive wall display, representing the artist’s diverse technical exploration throughout his daily creative challenge.

    Huggins describes the exhibition’s title as embodying “our memories of living in Trinidad and the broader Caribbean, and the hopes we have for the place we call home.” He aspires for viewers to recognize their own lives and surroundings within the artwork, capturing fleeting moments of Trinidadian existence through his distinctive visual language.

    The artist acknowledges the profound impact of international recognition while maintaining that client satisfaction remains his primary focus. “Projects like the Google Doodle expanded my audience significantly,” Huggins noted, “but awards simply indicate that jurors find the work noteworthy.”

    Following this exhibition, Huggins anticipates a professional pause as he prepares for fatherhood with his wife Alex Beadon Huggins, who provides crucial marketing support for his endeavors. The artist will temporarily shift focus toward his design agency, family priorities, and gallery management at 12 Mucurapo Road while maintaining creative exploration.

    Huggins offers aspiring creatives succinct advice: “Continue your practice with patience, follow your interests, and preserve your curiosity.” “Tropical Dreams” opens December 16 with a 5-6 PM reception and continues through December 20 during regular gallery hours.

  • Director Rob Reiner, wife found dead in Los Angeles

    Director Rob Reiner, wife found dead in Los Angeles

    The entertainment industry is reeling from a devastating loss following reports that esteemed American filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, were discovered deceased at their Southern California residence on Sunday. Initial media accounts from outlets including NBCLA indicate the couple was found inside their luxurious Brentwood mansion, a property confirmed by neighbors and public records.

    While the Los Angeles Police Department has refrained from officially confirming the identities, an ongoing investigation into the deaths is underway. Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stated that no individuals have been detained or are currently being interviewed as suspects, emphasizing that detectives are speaking with family members to establish the facts. A source close to the family, cited by NBC, suggested the apparent cause was stab wounds, though official confirmation from authorities is pending.

    The tragic news prompted an outpouring of grief from prominent figures. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed she was ‘heartbroken’ by the loss, praising Reiner not only for his artistic contributions but also for his dedicated political activism. ‘An acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and engaged political activist, he always used his gifts in service of others,’ Mayor Bass stated.

    According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the deceased were a man and a woman, approximately 78 and 68 years old, matching the ages of the Reiners. Rob Reiner, 78, first gained widespread fame for his role as Michael ‘Meathead’ Stivic on the seminal 1970s sitcom ‘All in the Family.’ He later transitioned into a highly successful directing career, creating iconic films such as the rock mockumentary ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ (1984), the beloved romantic comedy ‘When Harry Met Sally’ (1989), and the classic fantasy adventure ‘The Princess Bride’ (1987).

  • ICCS Takes Home Talented Teen Crown

    ICCS Takes Home Talented Teen Crown

    In a spectacular showcase of youthful talent and poise, the Immaculate Conception Catholic School (ICCS) emerged triumphant at the Republic Bank Miss Talented Teen competition, securing the coveted crown during St. Kitts’ 2025 Carnival season opening festivities. The event, held in the early hours of Sunday morning at Warner Park Cricket Stadium, witnessed eight competing schools vying for the prestigious title before a capacity audience.

    Tatiyana Archer, representing ICCS, captivated both judges and spectators with her remarkable stage confidence and consistently outstanding performances throughout the evening’s proceedings. Despite challenging weather conditions, Archer’s compelling presentation ultimately earned her the championship title in one of the Carnival season’s most anticipated events.

    The competition rankings placed Cader Rawlins from Washington Archibald High School as First Runner-Up, followed by Celina Alwani of SKI Academy as Second Runner-Up. Verchild’s High School’s Camira Williams completed the top placements as Third Runner-Up.

    Archer’s dominance extended beyond the main title as she secured additional honors for Miss Photogenic and Miss Popularity/Social Media. Charles E. Mills Secondary School received the Miss Amity award, while SKI Academy earned dual recognition through the Chairperson’s Award and School Spirit Award.

    The pageant has evolved into a cornerstone event of the Carnival calendar, celebrated for its combination of competitive spirit and collegial atmosphere. This year’s edition maintained this tradition with enthusiastic supporters creating an electric environment throughout the proceedings.

    As the newly crowned winner, Archer is now designated to represent the Federation at the 2026/2027 Miss Haynes Smith Pageant. The National Carnival Committee expressed gratitude for the strong public turnout that contributed to the event’s success.

    The Carnival season continues with the Junior Calypso Competition scheduled for Sunday evening, maintaining the momentum of cultural celebrations across St. Kitts and Nevis.

  • Cuban Film Festival concludes with screenings of award-winning works

    Cuban Film Festival concludes with screenings of award-winning works

    The 46th Havana Film Festival culminated in a grand finale with special screenings of its most celebrated cinematic works across multiple venues. The festival’s closing events showcased an impressive array of international co-productions that had earned top honors in the prestigious Coral Awards competition.

    At the Charles Chaplin Cinema, audiences were treated to ‘A Poet,’ the festival’s most awarded feature film, followed by ‘The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo’ (Chile-France collaboration), which claimed the Best First Feature category, and the Colombian-Honduran co-production ‘Eva,’ recognized for its outstanding Artistic Contribution.

    Simultaneously, Yara Cinema presented a diverse program including Cuba’s ‘Raptus’ (Animated Short/Medium-Length Film winner), Brazil’s ‘Sappho’ (Special Jury Prize recipient), and the Franco-Brazilian production ‘Heart of Darkness’ (Animated Feature Film Award winner).

    La Rampa cinema featured the multinational documentary ‘The Prince of Nanawa’ (Argentina-Paraguay-Colombia-Germany), honored with the Best Documentary Feature Coral Award. Additional venues including Acapulco, Infanta, and Glauber Rocha Foundation theaters screened notable works such as Cuba’s ‘Nora,’ France’s ‘Case 137,’ the transnational production ‘The Reborn’ (Argentina-Chile-Spain), and ‘Oca’ (Mexico-Argentina collaboration).

    The festival’s final day included special presentations at 23 y 12 cinema of the Cuban-Italian project ‘Baracoa’ (Sumate Award winner with Honorable Mention from Havana’s Agrarian University) and ‘Son of Tiger and Mule’ (Panama-Colombia), recipient of the Special Coral Jury Prize for Best Documentary Feature. Multiple award-winning films including ‘Belen’ (Argentina), ‘Cuerpo Celeste’ (Chile-Italy), ‘Tierra enferma’ (Brazil), ‘El agente secreto’ (Brazil-France), and ‘Neurotica Anonima’ (Cuba) received encore presentations across Chaplin, Yara, and Acapulco theaters, bringing the cinematic celebration to a magnificent close.

  • Recensie: Tomas Ross: Nacht over Paramaribo

    Recensie: Tomas Ross: Nacht over Paramaribo

    Dutch author Tomas Ross, pseudonym of Willem Hogendoorn, reaffirms his status as a master of the ‘faction’ genre with his latest novel ‘Night Over Paramaribo.’ This gripping 460-page thriller delivers both heart-pounding suspense and a penetrating examination of Suriname’s complex history and its intricate ties with the Netherlands.

    The narrative boldly incorporates real political figures including former Surinamese president Desi Bouterse and his wife Ingrid, current president Chan Santokhi and first lady Mellisa, alongside Dutch politicians such as Hans van Mierlo and even Prince Bernhard. Ross presents their achievements and flaws with unflinching candor.

    At the core of the plot lies a provocative question: Why did the Netherlands never attempt to arrest Bouterse despite multiple opportunities? The answer points toward potential Dutch involvement in the 1980 coup, referencing Colonel Valk and a secret document known as Operation Black Tulip. This document, allegedly held by Bouterse in a secure box obtained from a former Dutch embassy employee, becomes the story’s central MacGuffin—a potential tool for blackmailing the Dutch government.

    Following Bouterse’s death in late 2024, the box is stolen from his villa, triggering an international manhunt involving spies, secret agents, and rival factions. The action moves dynamically from Suriname to various European locations, featuring brutal confrontations across the Netherlands, France, and Spain.

    The final act returns to Suriname, where Bouterse’s loyalists, the Unity Council, prepare a new coup dubbed Operation Silver Arrow. Protagonists Lex Hansen and Suzy Ling find themselves in a desperate race against time as they hurry toward Paramaribo, coinciding with a multinational military exercise involving Suriname, the Netherlands, the United States, and France—which Ross ingeniously portrays as the coup’s actual execution.

    While grounded in historical fact, Ross skillfully incorporates fictional elements, including a car rental company in Snesi Kondre and the improbable rental of a motor yacht in an inland village for navigating the treacherous Marowijne River. This deliberate blending of fact and imagination enhances the story’s intrigue.

    Ross demonstrates exceptional narrative pace and precision throughout. His vivid depictions of Paramaribo’s atmosphere, the Surinamese jungle, and European urban landscapes create an immersive reading experience. The potent combination of political intrigue, espionage, and personal drama establishes ‘Night Over Paramaribo’ as a standout thriller that maintains relentless tension despite its complex cast of characters.

  • Colombian movie A Poet with 2 Coral Awards at Havana Film Festival

    Colombian movie A Poet with 2 Coral Awards at Havana Film Festival

    The Colombian cinematic production ‘A Poet’ has achieved remarkable international recognition, securing multiple prestigious awards at global film festivals. Directed by Simon Mesa, this dramatic feature earned both the Coral Award for Best Feature Film and the Coral Award for Best Actor for Ubeimar Rios’ compelling performance.

    The film’s acclaim extended beyond these honors to include the Don Quixote Award, presented by the International Federation of Film Societies, and the Signis Award from the World Catholic Association for Communication. This multi-national co-production between Colombia, Germany, and Sweden has demonstrated exceptional staying power in Colombian theaters, maintaining a three-month theatrical run—the longest of any Colombian film.

    At a press conference held at Hotel Nacional de Cuba in Havana, Professor Ubeimar Rios, who portrays the central character Oscar Restrepo, reflected on the film’s universal themes. He noted that while the narrative explores specific family dynamics in particular locations, the story resonates internationally as similar situations occur in numerous other communities worldwide.

    Rios revealed his personal connection to the role, explaining that much like his character, he shares a passion for poetry, works as a professor, and has experienced similar literary frustrations—a parallel he acknowledged with humorous self-awareness.

    The film’s narrative centers on Oscar Restrepo, whose obsessive pursuit of poetic glory has yielded little success or recognition. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Yurlady, a talented teenager from humble circumstances. While guiding her artistic development brings newfound purpose to his existence, the film thoughtfully examines whether introducing her to the demanding world of poetry represents the most appropriate mentorship approach.

    ‘A Poet’ stands as a significant achievement in international cinema, blending authentic local storytelling with themes that transcend cultural boundaries, earning both critical acclaim and audience appreciation across multiple continents.

  • Argentine ballet star to perform In Cuba

    Argentine ballet star to perform In Cuba

    In a landmark cultural exchange, principal dancer Marianela Nunez of London’s Royal Ballet will perform alongside Cuban-Australian star Patricio Reve at Havana’s Teatro Nacional de Cuba on December 28 and 30. The performances form part of the Cuban National Ballet’s special production of Don Quixote honoring legendary Cuban prima ballerina assoluta Alicia Alonso on what would have been her 105th birthday.

    Nunez, celebrated by critics for her extraordinary technical mastery and captivating stage presence that has enthralled audiences at the world’s most prestigious venues, will share the stage with Reve—a product of Cuba’s National Ballet School who has risen to international prominence through his refined artistry and impeccable technique. Reve currently serves as guest artist with The Royal Ballet while maintaining his principal position with Queensland Ballet in Australia.

    The commemorative season will feature nine performances total, with the National Ballet Company (declared a National Cultural Heritage institution) showcasing both established stars and emerging talent. Company members Anette Delgado, Dani Hernandez, Yanquiel Vazquez, Anyelo Montero, Gabriela Druyet, Nadila Estrada, Laura Kamila, and Alejandro Alderete will make their debuts in leading roles during the production.

    This collaboration represents a significant moment of artistic diplomacy, bringing together Cuban-trained talent with international ballet stars in a celebration of Cuba’s rich ballet heritage and its global influence.

  • Minister Taf calls for unity on latest single Nice Again

    Minister Taf calls for unity on latest single Nice Again

    Jamaican-born gospel reggae artist Minister Taf, despite having resided in the United Kingdom for sixteen years, has demonstrated profound commitment to his homeland following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. The storm, which struck Jamaica on October 28, caused extensive damage to the musician’s childhood community of Duanvale in Trelawny, including his former elementary school and local churches.

    In response to the devastation, the award-winning artist has released a new single titled ‘Nice Again,’ serving as both a symbol of hope and a call to unity. Produced by Jvmmie Jae and released on November 28, the track embodies the resilient Jamaican spirit while acknowledging the profound challenges facing the island nation.

    Minister Taf, born Tafari Henry, explained his inspiration: “The song reflects my unwavering belief that Jamaica will emerge stronger from this crisis, echoing the biblical promise from Haggai 2:9 that ‘the latter house shall be greater than the former.’ Rather than focusing on the tragedy, I wanted to capture our people’s innate ability to maintain hope and joy even during hardship.”

    The artist has established a GoFundMe campaign to support reconstruction efforts at Duanvale Elementary School, where the entire roof was destroyed and interior spaces severely damaged. He has pledged twenty percent of the song’s proceeds to Jamaica Relief Support, emphasizing that “the children are the future” and expressing his determination to contribute meaningfully to recovery efforts.

    Minister Taf’s musical journey began in 2012 as a rapper before undergoing a significant transformation in 2016 when he transitioned to gospel reggae. He openly discusses his personal struggles with addiction, anger management, and employment challenges, credoring his Christian faith and supportive wife for helping him overcome these obstacles. His artistic evolution reflects both personal redemption and professional perseverance within the music industry.

    The single specifically acknowledges and thanks both local and international supporters participating in Jamaica’s recovery, celebrating the collective generosity and strength that defines the nation’s response to adversity. Minister Taf concludes with characteristic optimism: “We’re a God-fearing nation. Now more than ever, we must put our trust in Him. I strongly believe Jamaica will be nice again.”