Tito Adams’ Open Waters Theatre has once again proven its artistic prowess with the successful debut of ‘The Chillout’ at the National Cultural Centre over the weekend. This marks Adams’ fourth major production and is widely regarded as his finest work to date. The play masterfully blends drama, humor, and poignant messages, leaving audiences both entertained and deeply moved. Adams’ refined storytelling and nuanced direction have elevated the production to new heights. The narrative revolves around a family embroiled in a battle over the ownership of ‘The Chillout,’ a beloved community bed and breakfast and restaurant that serves as a local gathering spot. The story delves into the lives of its diverse characters, including a street hustler, a troubled husband seeking solace, and a community ‘bum’ who finds a sense of belonging at the establishment. The central conflict arises when the older Peters brother returns, intent on taking control of the business, threatening the community’s cherished hangout. Nicquan James delivers a standout performance as Johnathan Peters, the younger brother who strives to preserve the legacy of ‘The Chillout.’ The play’s second half transitions into a semi-musical, featuring captivating musical performances that enhance the emotional depth of the story. As the plot unfolds, relationships are mended, love blossoms, and the community’s beacon of hope remains intact. The production concludes with a heartfelt appeal to save ‘The Chillout,’ leaving audiences in rapturous applause. Adams, who secured significant sponsorship for this project, continues to showcase his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His work, deeply rooted in faith and family, resonates profoundly with viewers. ‘The Chillout’ is a must-see production that deserves a wider audience, including students of theatre arts. We eagerly anticipate Adams’ next creative endeavor.
分类： entertainment
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Do “Weak Passports” Keep Small Territories from Winning Miss Universe?
The Miss Universe organization is embroiled in a heated controversy following remarks by its president, Raul Rocha, regarding Cote d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yacé. Rocha suggested that Yacé’s ‘weak passport’ hindered her chances of winning the crown, sparking widespread accusations of racism and discrimination within the pageant community. Yacé, who finished as fourth runner-up to Mexico’s Fatima Bosch at the 74th Miss Universe in Thailand on November 21st, later renounced her continental title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania in a social media statement. In a live video, Rocha claimed that Yacé’s passport posed logistical challenges for the organization, citing visa requirements for 175 countries. Yacé has yet to respond to these comments. Meanwhile, Miss Guadeloupe Ophely Mezino condemned Rocha’s remarks, defending Yacé and revealing that she holds an American passport. Mezino questioned whether Afro-Caribbean contestants ever had a fair chance, accusing the organization of exploiting small territories and shattering the hopes of millions. Other contestants, including Miss Universe Portugal Camila Vitorino, have also criticized the organization for its treatment of married women and mothers, highlighting a moment when contestants were told the reigning queen’s commitment was solely to the community, not personal relationships.
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The Village of Vibes at Julees: Where Art Week Explodes in Color, Culture & Cuisine
Antigua & Barbuda Art Week 2025 is set to captivate audiences with the debut of the Art & Cultural Village at Julees Restaurant, a dynamic addition to this year’s national festivities. This innovative outdoor space will bring together color, culture, cuisine, and imagination, creating a vibrant hub of creativity unlike any other. The Village will spotlight artpreneurs—the creative entrepreneurs driving Antigua & Barbuda’s cultural economy—with over 25 local and regional artists showcasing their talents in mediums ranging from oil and acrylic paintings to handmade fashion, jewelry, and miniature architectural pieces. Photography exhibits will blend nostalgia with futuristic visions, while culinary artists offer Caribbean-inspired brunches, tasting flights, and homemade treats. The signature chARTcuterie workshop will allow participants to paint and sip, creating a full sensory experience. Opening Night on Thanksgiving evening, November 27, will feature a posthumous tribute to Vaughn Walter, MBE, a cultural architect and festival visionary, alongside a screening of the film “Once In An Island.” The week will also include Students’ Day on November 28, led by New Jersey–based Antiguan artist Odessa Whitlock, and a “Chalk the Village” competition for young artists. Saturday will host a Costume Building Workshop and Barbuda Eats, a special tapas menu by a Barbudan chef. The event concludes on Sunday with “Brunching with the Arts,” live music, fashion, dance, and the chARTcuterie Experience, where guests can sip, paint, and snack. Art Week 2025 promises to be an immersive celebration of creativity, community, and Caribbean culture.
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Stick Figure lands sixth Billboard-charting album with Free Flow Sessions
California-based reggae band Stick Figure has once again made waves in the music industry, securing its sixth title on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Their latest release, *Free Flow Sessions*, debuted at an impressive #2. The album, which dropped on November 14 via Ruffwood Records, features 12 tracks, including six brand-new compositions. These tracks, such as *Moon Palace*, *Walking in My Shoes*, and *Fools Gold*, showcase the band’s signature dub-style reggae beats, with many tracks being remixed, extended, and reimagined. Stick Figure’s journey to the top began in 2009 with *Smoke Stack*, which peaked at #8. Since then, their subsequent albums—*Burial Ground* (2012), *Set in Stone* (2015), *World On Fire* (2019), and *Wisdom* (2022)—have all claimed the #1 spot. Notably, *World On Fire*, *Set in Stone*, and *Wisdom* continue to hold positions on the latest chart at #5, #7, and #8, respectively. Meanwhile, Bob Marley and the Wailers maintain their legendary status with *Legend*, logging 306 non-consecutive weeks at #1. Other notable entries include Shaggy’s *Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection* at #3 and Sean Paul’s *Dutty Classics Collection* at #4. The reggae scene remains vibrant, with artists like Vybz Kartel making their mark on various Billboard charts, while regional charts highlight the enduring appeal of reggae across the U.S. and Canada.
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Captin CC says if you seek loyalty, better ‘Buy a Dog’
ST JAMES, Jamaica – Captin CC, a rising dancehall artist from Montego Bay, is making waves with his latest comedic yet thought-provoking single, ‘Buy a Dog.’ The track serves as the lead single from his highly anticipated EP, *Unresolved*, slated for release on February 3, 2026.
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Studio Joli presents a Merry Little Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, Studio Joli is once again captivating art enthusiasts with its beloved themed exhibition, ‘Merry Little Christmas.’ Opening on November 29, this showcase features an array of small-scale artworks, each measuring 10×10 inches or smaller, making them perfect as unique gifts or personal treasures. The exhibition highlights a diverse mix of emerging talents and established artists, including Shalini Seereeram, Denée Thomas, and others, offering a vibrant collection of paintings and sculptures at accessible prices. Beyond its artistic appeal, Studio Joli is also embracing the spirit of giving by collecting wrapped gifts for The Shelter, a refuge for victims of domestic abuse. Donations will be accepted until December 20. The grand opening on November 29 will feature extended hours from 10 am to 4 pm, with the exhibition running until December 24 during regular studio hours. Located at 21 Henry Pierre Street, St James, Studio Joli invites visitors to immerse themselves in this festive celebration of art and compassion. For more details, contact 705-7907, e-mail studiojoli.tt@gmail.com, or visit their website and social media platforms.
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UWI Arts Chorale & Steel present Glorious Voices on November 29
The Department of Creative and Festival Arts (DCFA) at The University of the West Indies (UWI) is set to host a spectacular seasonal concert titled ‘Glorious Voices and Steel’ at All Saint’s Anglican Church in Port of Spain on November 29, 2025, at 7 pm. This event, part of the DCFA Legacy Year productions for 2025-2026, will feature the UWI Arts Chorale and Steel performing timeless classical and festive pieces. The program includes Antonio Vivaldi’s renowned choral work ‘Gloria’ and Mozart’s ‘Regina Coeli,’ alongside beloved Christmas favorites. Jessel Murray, senior lecturer and deputy dean of distance and outreach at UWI, will conduct the combined forces of the UWI Arts Chorale and Orchestra, while Khion De Las, music instructor at DCFA, will lead the UWI Arts Steel. The concert promises an authentic experience, with the Chorale performing the masterworks in their original Latin, accompanied by a professional orchestra. Soloists from the Chorale, including soprano Stephanie Carrington, mezzo-soprano Gabrielle Tull, tenor Christopher Sookhoo, and baritone Anderson Hudlin, will add depth to the performance. The UWI Arts Steel will enchant the audience with Tchaikovsky’s ‘Nutcracker Suite,’ a Pentatonix arrangement of ‘Carol of the Bells,’ and other seasonal surprises. Over the years, the UWI Arts Chorale has garnered a loyal following in Trinidad and Tobago and has toured internationally to Massachusetts, New York, Belize, and Mexico. Tickets are available at the DCFA and from members of the participating ensembles. For more information, contact 272-3232 via WhatsApp or email uwi.arts.chorale@gmail.com, uwi.arts.steel@gmail.com, or dcfa@sta.uwi.edu.
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Dancehall dominates as Rhythmz on the Hill delivers
The vibrant beats of dancehall and soca reverberated through Farley Hill National Park on Sunday night, as thousands gathered for the rescheduled Rhythmz on the Hill event. Originally planned for November 9, the festival, organized by Zulu Entertainment and Caribbean Music Festival, made a triumphant return after being postponed due to Hurricane Melissa. The event not only celebrated music but also served as a rallying point for hurricane relief efforts, highlighting the resilience of the Jamaican community. The evening kicked off with a high-energy soca performance by veteran artist Lil Rick, setting the stage for a night dominated by dancehall. Top DJs, including the Legacy Team, Daddy Fabian, and Deejay Thorny, kept the crowd energized with a mix of reggae and dancehall hits. Aidonia, the penultimate act, delivered an electrifying performance, connecting deeply with the audience and sharing a heartfelt moment of gratitude for overcoming personal struggles. Alkaline closed the show with his signature flair, performing hits like ‘Boss’ and ‘Champion Boy’ to a diverse, enthusiastic crowd. The event also featured stellar performances by reggae legends Admiral Bailey and Flourgon, as well as Bajan artists Mastaa T and Chiief Diin. Throughout the night, hosts Astra and Salt encouraged donations for Hurricane Melissa relief, emphasizing Caribbean solidarity. With seamless organization, abundant food and drink options, and an incident-free atmosphere, Zulu Entertainment Inc. once again demonstrated the unifying power of Caribbean music.
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Tourism Week Begins with “Tourism Blast Off” and Service of Thanksgiving
The Winter Tourism Season in Antigua and Barbuda commenced with grandeur on Saturday, November 22nd, as the Tourism Blast Off event lit up the Rising Sun Grounds. This year’s celebration, hailed as the most vibrant and expansive to date, marked the official start of Tourism Week, drawing an enthusiastic crowd and setting a high bar for cultural festivities. The evening was a dazzling showcase of local talent, featuring performances that highlighted the rich artistic heritage of the nation. Among the standout acts were the Schools’ Panorama Champions, Villa Primary School and Christ the King High School, whose young pannists delivered electrifying renditions that captivated the audience. The Junior Soca and Calypso Monarchs further energized the crowd with their dynamic performances. The event also featured appearances by renowned groups such as Showtime Productions, Lyrical Redz, Pandemonium Steel Orchestra, and Xxplosive Band, alongside other celebrated artists like Soca Villian and Island Prince. The day was a testament to the creativity, culture, and community spirit that define Antigua and Barbuda. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Honourable Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, emphasized the inclusive nature of tourism, stating that the event aimed to showcase the nation’s finest talents and culinary delights. The festivities continued on Sunday with the annual Tourism Week Service of Thanksgiving at Kentish Pentecostal Church, where Apostle Dexter Laurence delivered an inspiring sermon and offered prayers for the sustained growth and prosperity of the tourism industry. The service underscored the unity and shared purpose that drive the sector. As Tourism Week progresses, the Ministry of Tourism expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all partners, performers, and attendees who continue to make these events a resounding success year after year.
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Antigua & Barbuda Showcases Signature Fungi Dishes at St. Martin Gastronomy Festival
Antigua and Barbuda made a remarkable culinary statement at the Festival de la Gastronomie in St. Martin, captivating an international audience with their rich and vibrant flavors. Renowned chefs Ronald Wilson and Maureen St. John took center stage, presenting the essence of the twin-island nation through innovative dishes. The highlight of their performance was the creative reinterpretation of the country’s signature staple, fungi. The chefs unveiled three distinct variations: Classic Fungi with Okra, Saltfish-Stuffed Fungi, and Curry Conch Fungi. Each dish was masterfully complemented by unique accompaniments, including a ginger–passionfruit drizzle, a roasted eggplant chim-chop-up, and a pineapple-infused tomato sauce. These pairings not only enhanced the flavors but also showcased the diversity and freshness of Antigua and Barbuda’s culinary heritage. The festival, which featured participation from 14 Caribbean islands, drew both locals and tourists who eagerly sampled the offerings. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with plates left clean and praise abundant. Antigua and Barbuda’s authentic and memorable food experience solidified their place as a standout participant, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.