分类: entertainment

  • “Born females” invited to register for Miss Anguilla Pageant

    “Born females” invited to register for Miss Anguilla Pageant

    The search for Anguilla’s next cultural ambassador has officially commenced with the opening of registration for the 2026 ‘Once Upon a Queen’ pageant. Organizers have announced a nationwide call for aspiring contestants who embody the values of elegance, intelligence, and national pride.

    Prospective candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria to participate in the prestigious competition. Applicants must be born female between the ages of 18 and 27, never married, and without children. Additionally, requirements include Anguillian citizenship or legal residency, English fluency, and a minimum of four Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) passes including English language proficiency.

    The competition framework emphasizes personal development and cultural representation rather than conventional beauty standards. The thematic concept ‘Once Upon a Queen’ invites participants to envision their potential reign as a transformative journey of self-discovery and national service.

    Registration will remain open through January 31st, 2026, providing ample time for qualified individuals to complete the application process. The selected queen will assume responsibilities as a cultural representative and role model for Anguillian youth and women.

    This biennial event forms part of Anguilla’s broader efforts to promote cultural diplomacy and youth empowerment through traditional pageantry formats. The competition aims to showcase the island’s talent while maintaining international pageant standards aligned with contemporary values of education and social responsibility.

  • Dominica Music Awards 2025: A night of pride, legacy, and global vision

    Dominica Music Awards 2025: A night of pride, legacy, and global vision

    The InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa served as the magnificent backdrop for the 2025 Dominica Music Awards (DMA), an evening that brilliantly showcased the island nation’s rich musical heritage and contemporary creativity. Produced by Creole Heartbeat, this prestigious event united artists, producers, cultural ambassadors, industry specialists, and enthusiastic music aficionados in a grand celebration of Dominican music’s dynamic spirit and international influence.

    The ceremony distributed honors across 24 competitive categories while simultaneously presenting Lifetime Achievement Awards and Special Honours, highlighting the extraordinary depth and diversity of Dominica’s musical landscape. From promising emerging artists to established legendary figures, the DMA reaffirmed music’s dual role as both cultural bedrock and significant economic contributor to the island nation.

    Among the evening’s most celebrated winners were Shelly, who secured both Male Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year awards, while Bouyon Barbie Faithii earned Female Artist of the Year honors. The collaborative album ‘Electric Room’ by Shelly & Signal Band received Album of the Year recognition, with the same artists winning Music Video of the Year for ‘Bye to the Old Me.’ Signal Band themselves claimed Band of the Year honors.

    The awards spanned multiple genres including Soca, Bouyon, Reggae/Dancehall, Calypso, Cadence-Lypso, and Kompa/Zouk, demonstrating the remarkable variety within Dominican music. Additional category winners included Pudaz (Bouyon Artist), Colton T (Reggae/Dancehall Artist), Joy (Calypso Artist), and Extasy (Kompa/Zouk Artist).

    A particularly moving segment featured the Office of the Prime Minister Lifetime Achievement Awards, which paid homage to seven cultural pioneers whose contributions have fundamentally shaped Dominican music: Ophelia Olivacce-Marie and Fitzroy Williams (Cadence-Lypso), David Benjamin (Traditional Music), Nasio Fontaine (Reggae), Ian Jackson (Calypso & Songwriting), Jerry Lloyd (Gospel), and Keith Goddard (Bouyon).

    Special Honours included the Felix Henderson Award presented to Sonia Magloire Akpa and the Iconic Award bestowed upon Khrisna ‘Dada’ Lawrence. The event also recognized contemporary influencers including DJ MJ (DJ of the Year), Jael Joseph (Social Media Influencer of the Year), and Asa Bantan (Promoter/Event of the Year for Breakfast Fete).

    The successful execution of the DMA was made possible through substantial support from numerous sponsors including the Office of the Prime Minister, Republic Bank Limited, KFC Dominica, Dexia, Josephine Gabriel, NCCU, Q95, and many others, reflecting a collective dedication to advancing Dominican music on the world stage.

    Established with the mission to celebrate, honor, and professionalize Dominican music, the Dominica Music Awards continues to elevate local talent while strategically positioning the island’s music industry within global markets. Through its recognition of artistic excellence, cultural preservation, and industry innovation, the DMA plays a crucial role in strengthening Dominica’s creative economy and inspiring future generations of musical talent.

  • Boats, Goats & Dancing Ladies: A Caribbean Cacophony

    Boats, Goats & Dancing Ladies: A Caribbean Cacophony

    The Gallery of Caribbean Art is currently hosting “Boats, Goats & Dancing Ladies: A Caribbean Cacophony,” a spectacular solo exhibition featuring Grenadian artist Susan Mains. This presentation continues the artist’s longstanding relationship with the gallery, where she has consistently exhibited her work for nearly two decades since 2003.

    Mains masterfully transforms the Caribbean landscape into a dynamic visual symphony through her vibrant paintings. Her expressive brushwork captures boats gliding across turquoise waters, goats roaming sun-drenched hillsides, and dancing women moving rhythmically through fields bursting with color. The artist skillfully incorporates auditory elements—the flapping of sails in the breeze, the distinct bleating of goats, and the compelling beat of drums—creating an immersive multisensory experience that celebrates everyday island life.

    “In this time of world tension, art can give a respite, a moment away to remember the good things all around us,” Mains explained, highlighting the therapeutic value of her joyful artistic expressions.

    Beyond her studio practice, Mains has established herself as a significant cultural ambassador for Caribbean art. She recently played a pivotal role at Carifesta in Barbados this past August, where she championed Grenadian artists and facilitated broader regional dialogue about contemporary Caribbean art. Her global influence extends through her remarkable nine-time appointment as Commissioner of the Grenada Pavilion at the prestigious Venice Biennale, where she has consistently elevated Grenada’s presence on the international art stage.

    The exhibition serves as both a celebration of Mains’ artistic vitality and her enduring commitment to Caribbean cultural exchange. It offers viewers an invitation to experience the islands through a lens of color, memory, and movement. Those visiting Grenada can view her work permanently at the Susan Mains Gallery at Spiceland Mall or Art House 473 in Calliste.

    “Boats, Goats & Dancing Ladies: A Caribbean Cacophony” remains open to the public with free admission through February 5th, operating daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

  • KSA heritage queen captures runner-up title at national competition

    KSA heritage queen captures runner-up title at national competition

    In a celebration of youthful elegance and cultural pride, Annorah Brown from Kingston and St Andrew secured the position of second runner-up at the groundbreaking Mini Miss Jamaica Heritage Queen Pageant. The inaugural event unfolded on December 28, 2025, at a vibrant ceremony in Ocho Rios, St Ann, marking a significant new chapter in Jamaica’s pageantry landscape.

    Brown’s journey to the national stage was paved by her prior accolade as the Mini Miss Kingston and St Andrew Heritage Queen, a title she earned earlier in the year. According to her supporters, her successful progression was fueled by a combination of her prior experience in competitive pageants and the unwavering encouragement from her directors, family, and friends.

    The atmosphere in the venue was electric with anticipation as Brown was announced as one of the top five finalists, triggering an eruption of enthusiastic applause from the audience. While she did not clinch any specific sectional awards during the competition, her placement among the elite finalists highlighted her overall strong performance.

    The climax of the evening featured the finalists’ victory walk, culminating in the revelation of the winners. The historic first-ever Mini Miss Jamaica Heritage Queen title was awarded to Athena Whyte of St Mary, with Shayde Anderson of Portland being named the first runner-up. Brown’s achievement as second runner-up is celebrated as a moment of immense pride for the Kingston and St Andrew community. Her performance stands as a powerful testament to her grace, confidence, and the compelling national appeal she displayed on the heritage pageant stage, solidifying her status as a rising star.

  • Winston Dias releases cover of ‘Let’s Keep it That Way’

    Winston Dias releases cover of ‘Let’s Keep it That Way’

    After more than six decades in the music industry, Winston Dias continues to create meaningful art, now drawing inspiration from his closest family members. The veteran vocalist recently released a heartfelt cover of “Let’s Keep it That Way” following encouragement from his wife Kathleen and daughter Georgia, who recognized the song’s special resonance with his vocal style and personal story.

    Dias recorded the self-produced track at Willie Lindo’s Heavy Beat studio in South Florida, marking his first solo release in several years. The project represents a departure from his recent work as lead singer of the legendary rocksteady harmony trio The Melodians, returning to his roots as a solo performer.

    The musical journey to this release spans multiple genres and continents. Dias first established himself in the early 1960s with the ska hit “Cericy Tea” before migrating to Canada in 1968, where he became an integral part of Toronto’s reggae scene for a decade. His career also includes a tenure with the iconic soul group The Drifters before joining The Melodians alongside founder Trevor McNaughton and Taurus Alphonso.

    Dias’s connection to “Let’s Keep it That Way” runs deep, having admired the song since its original 1977 recording by American country singer Tanya Tucker. The ballad has since been interpreted by various artists including Mac Davis, Anne Murray, and reggae performer Boris Gardiner, but Dias brings his own distinctive interpretation to the timeless piece.

    The newly released recording, distributed by Tad’s International Record, stands as testament to Dias’s enduring musical passion and the supportive creative environment fostered by his family after 55 years of marriage.

  • Rishi Gayadeen celebrates 40 years in music

    Rishi Gayadeen celebrates 40 years in music

    As Carnival preparations reach fever pitch in Trinidad and Tobago, veteran musician Rishi Gayadeen stands at the helm of both studio productions and live performances, marking an extraordinary 40-year career that has shaped the nation’s soundscape. The 51-year-old musical director, currently leading preparations as bandleader for the Chutney Soca Monarch competition, has already completed approximately 35 productions this season while balancing numerous private engagements.

    Gayadeen’s musical journey represents more than professional achievement—it embodies a lifelong dedication rooted in childhood discipline. Growing up surrounded by his father’s orchestra, The Gayatones, he describes music as haunting his soul from birth. “Being around that band room and rehearsal was a calling for me,” he reflects. “It haunted my soul. Every opportunity I got, I watched them rehearse and I soaked in everything.”

    His formal training began at six years old under his father’s strict guidance: “We were taught to play original East Indian music by dad who told us ‘If you can’t play it close to the record, then don’t play it.’” This foundation in musical authenticity would later expand through exposure to soca, chutney, and reggae artists, sparking what he describes as a fascination with understanding the structure and swing of all genres.

    The pivotal moment arrived when young Gayadeen first entered a recording studio. Witnessing technology transform creative vision into recorded art, he knew music would define his path. By 12, he was performing professionally; by 15, he had entered studio production. This evolution from keyboardist to producer, musical director, and mentor now includes nurturing emerging artists like Avinash Maharaj and Divya Gocool—a responsibility he embraces as repayment for opportunities received.

    Gayadeen’s career highlights include winning the Mastana Bahar competition in 2011 as a solo keyboardist, claiming a $75,000 prize that fulfilled a childhood dream. He credits mentor Kenny Phillips of KMP Studios for crucial guidance, particularly when installing Logic Pro Digital Studio on his laptop with the instruction: “go home and study this until you get it right.”

    Now leading RG The Band—a rebranding effort after 33 years in the industry—Gayadeen emphasizes the importance of evolution while preserving authenticity. “Never forget where you started,” he advises. “Building a foundation and preserving it will always keep you going.”

    Despite four decades of performances, Gayadeen’s passion remains undiminished. With a new recording studio under construction, upcoming tours, and year-round bookings, he affirms: “The stage is my home and I’ll play music till my last breath.” His commitment will culminate on March 22 with “RG Musical Journey,” a live performance showcasing his evolution through Bollywood, chutney, soca, and parang genres.

    Reflecting on his legacy, Gayadeen hopes to be remembered for quality, humility, and helping others achieve their dreams. For aspiring musicians, he offers tempered advice: “Set goals, focus on what you want and work hard toward it. There will be obstacles in your path, but don’t allow it to break your focus.”

    Having dedicated his life to music, Gayadeen concludes with profound certainty: “Music is who I am. I believe people were born to do certain things in this life. I feel blessed and grateful to be still on those stages…making our fans happy.”

  • Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Jamaica’s premier New Year’s Day celebration, Sunnation’s Sunrise breakfast party, successfully launched 2026 with an extraordinary fusion of luxury entertainment and authentic Caribbean atmosphere at its new Campion College venue. The exclusive all-inclusive event delivered premium experiences as revelers raised champagne glasses skyward in celebratory toasts to the promising year ahead.

    New York transplant Ronique Goodhall revealed to media that the Sunrise event has become her essential annual tradition since 2019. ‘The plane ticket is always worth it because there’s no party like a party at home,’ Goodhall expressed, highlighting the event’s exceptional value through gourmet dining experiences and performances by A-list DJs. ‘Sunrise always provides the perfect backdrop for spectacular photos and a food village that satisfies every craving.’

    Local attendee Antoine Livingston described the gathering as their designated annual reunion space, emphasizing how the January 1st timing creates ideal conditions for celebrating friendships, new beginnings, and previous accomplishments. ‘We consistently depart with the most incredible euphoria after sharing laughter, dance, and memory-making moments,’ Livingston noted.

    The musical atmosphere reached peak intensity through masterful sets by renowned selectors including Bloodline Franco, DJ Tyler, DJ Mac, Ricky Platinum, and DJ Quan. Their curated playlists generated such energetic response that female attendees strategically exchanged heels for comfortable sandals, preparing for extended morning dancing sessions.

    Dancehall anthems from icons Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw, and special guest Aidonia prompted spontaneous partner dancing throughout the venue. Particularly, Popcaan’s ‘Pretty Crew’ ignited enthusiastic reactions as women captured celebratory selfie videos celebrating friendship and beauty.

    Between musical engagements, patrons explored the extensive food court featuring succulent ribs, creamy pasta selections, and signature desserts from Devon House Ice Cream. Service staff remained consistently engaged throughout the afternoon as attendees fully utilized the unlimited dining offerings.

    The 2026 edition ultimately established Sunnation’s Sunrise Breakfast Party as Jamaica’s definitive New Year’s Day experience, combining gourmet catering, elite musical programming, and authentic cultural celebration in one prestigious package.

  • Sean Paul’s ‘Like Glue’ is platinum

    Sean Paul’s ‘Like Glue’ is platinum

    Music producer Tony ‘CD’ Kelly’s visionary 2001 ‘Buy Out’ rhythm project has achieved a monumental milestone with Sean Paul’s iconic track ‘Like Glue’ receiving platinum certification in the United Kingdom. The British Phonographic Industry officially certified the song last Friday after it surpassed 600,000 units in combined sales and streams.

    The certification marks an extraordinary journey for the rhythm track that Kelly originally created in 1996 but shelved for five years before its eventual release. ‘Like Glue’ emerged as the most successful single from the compilation, reaching #3 on the UK Singles Chart, #13 on the Billboard Hot 100, and achieving top-10 status across multiple international markets including Canada, Australia, and several European countries.

    Kelly revealed in an exclusive interview that the rhythm’s creation stemmed from his experimental approach with new equipment. ‘I love to experiment and go against the grain,’ Kelly explained. ‘When I get new equipment, I dive into the sounds to see what may stimulate me and give me a vibe.’

    The ‘Buy Out’ rhythm spawned numerous hits including TOK’s ‘Money to Burn’, Mr Easy’s ‘She Drives Me Crazy’ (the first song recorded on the beat), Beenie Man’s ‘Miss LAP’, and Notch’s ‘Nuttin Nuh Go Suh’. All tracks were recorded at Kelly’s Lounge studio and released through his K-Licious label.

    This platinum certification represents Sean Paul’s tenth in the United Kingdom, solidifying his status as the most certified Jamaican artist in UK history. Kelly attributes the enduring success to the timeless quality of the music, noting that ‘classics are just that, classics’ and that new generations continue discovering the rhythm through social media and its inherent feel-good quality.

  • Miss Teen Dominica 2026 to be officially launched this week

    Miss Teen Dominica 2026 to be officially launched this week

    Dominica’s cultural calendar marks a significant event as five aspiring young women prepare to compete for the prestigious Miss Teen Dominica 2026 crown. This year’s edition, embracing the empowering theme “Letting Our Youths Shine,” promises to showcase the talent and potential of the nation’s next generation.

    The official launch ceremony for the 47th annual pageant is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at the Alliance Francaise venue. Commencing at 5:30 PM, the event will set the stage for weeks of preparatory activities leading to the grand finale.

    Adding historical significance to the occasion, the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company will simultaneously reveal detailed plans for their landmark 55th anniversary celebrations during the launch event. This dual celebration emphasizes the interconnected nature of Dominica’s cultural institutions.

    A distinguished roster of speakers will address attendees, including the reigning Miss Teen Dominica 2025 Gabrielle Esprit, who will share her experiences and formally pass the torch to the new contestants. They will be joined by Raymond Lawrence, Artistic Director of the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company, alongside representatives from major sponsors AC Shillingford & Co Ltd and New India Assurance Co. The speaking roster also includes Jodie Jno Charles and Senior Education Officer Charlene White Christian, highlighting the pageant’s educational dimensions.

    The competition enjoys substantial community backing with an impressive portfolio of sponsors including national enterprises such as the National Bank of Dominica, Springfield Trading, Carlton Phillip & Co Ltd, and Argos Dominica Ltd. Retail and service sector support comes from Bulls Eye Pharmacy, Dragon Windows, PH Williams & Co Ltd, Francis Enterprises, Fine Foods Inc, Fresh Market, High Swag Life Store, Quins Jewelry, and Depex Color Lab, with financial services support from Big Edge Financial Express.

    The culmination of the competition will occur on February 8, 2026, at the Stadium, where the next Miss Teen Dominica will be crowned during a ceremony beginning at 5 PM.

    Parallel to the pageant, the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company’s 55th anniversary festivities will include a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Alphonsus Church on January 18, 2026. The celebrations will continue through the February pageant and conclude with a special dance production scheduled for May 30-31, 2026, creating an extended season of cultural recognition.

  • Antigua Carnival 2026 Registration is Now Open!

    Antigua Carnival 2026 Registration is Now Open!

    ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA – In a significant development for Caribbean cultural celebrations, the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission has formally inaugurated the registration process for Antigua Carnival 2026. The announcement, made on January 5th, 2026, marks the commencement of preparations for one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events.

    The comprehensive registration initiative encompasses eighteen distinct participation categories, reflecting the diverse artistic expressions that characterize the carnival. The categories include traditional competitive events such as Calypso Monarch, Party Monarch, and Road March competitions, alongside showcase categories including Queen of Carnival and Mr. & Miss Teenage Pageant. The registration further extends to Business Floats, Mas Bands, J’ouvert Tropes Bands, and various junior divisions including Junior Calypso Monarch and Junior Carnival School Mas. Additionally, opportunities exist for Individual Mas participants, Cheerleaders, Monday Wear designers, T-Shirt Mas groups, and Vendors seeking to operate during the festivities.

    Prospective participants may obtain registration documentation from two designated locations: the National Festivals Office situated on the first floor of the Cecil George-John Building at the intersection of Corn Alley and Redcliffe Street, and the Ministry of Creative Industries on Old Parham Road, located upstairs from the KFC/INET Building. These offices will maintain specific operating hours from Monday through Thursday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with Friday hours extending from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

    Completed registration forms must be returned to the National Festivals Office at the Cecil George-John Building address. This early registration launch provides ample preparation time for artists, performers, designers, and entrepreneurs to organize their contributions to what promises to be a spectacular celebration of Antiguan and Barbudan cultural heritage, artistic innovation, and community spirit.