Renowned multi-award-winning artist Shaggy has announced his participation in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, fulfilling a long-held dream. The Jamaican superstar revealed the news on his official social media platforms on Monday, expressing his excitement and pride in representing his homeland during challenging times. The parade, a cherished American tradition since 1924, will celebrate its 99th anniversary on November 27. Shaggy, the sole Jamaican act in the lineup, will perform on the Jennie-O Big Turkey Spectacular float alongside other notable artists such as Ciara, Foreigner, and Busta Rhymes. In his announcement, Shaggy emphasized the significance of showcasing Jamaican culture through dancehall and reggae music, while also acknowledging the struggles faced by his country in the aftermath of a recent hurricane. Kim Anderson, senior brand manager of the JENNIE-O® brand, highlighted the collaboration with Shaggy as a special addition to this year’s festivities, promising an innovative and vibrant performance. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a globally recognized event, continues to symbolize the official commencement of the holiday season in the United States.
分类: entertainment
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Deh Yah Still!
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, particularly in Jamaica, celebrities are stepping up to contribute their time, influence, and resources to aid recovery efforts. Among the first to act is British actress Jodie Turner-Smith, who has launched a T-shirt campaign in collaboration with the global health and humanitarian organization Project HOPE. The campaign, which began this past weekend, features the ‘Deh Yah Still’ T-shirt, available in both adult and children’s sizes on https://everpress.com/. Turner-Smith, born in the UK to Jamaican immigrants, has always maintained a strong connection to her cultural roots, which inspired this initiative. The T-shirt design, inspired by a photo of Turner-Smith and her daughter in Jamaica, symbolizes hope, community, resilience, and reverence for the island. The phrase ‘deh yah still,’ written in the sand, serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of the Jamaican people. Turner-Smith urges everyone to support the cause by purchasing the T-shirt and sharing the campaign with friends and loved ones. American actress Jennifer Aniston has also shown her support by reposting the campaign on her Instagram. The T-shirts are available in a variety of colors, including Burgundy, Bottle Green, Ecru, Melange Grey, Navy Blue, Sweet Lilac, and White. This initiative highlights the importance of collective action in times of crisis and the significant role celebrities can play in mobilizing resources and awareness.
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Shaggy, Chris Martin, Nigy Boy, Masicka line up for I Love Jamaica concerts
A star-studded lineup of international and Jamaican artists, including Shaggy, Masicka, Christopher Martin, and Nigy Boy, will headline the ‘I Love Jamaica’ 5-concert fundraising series. The virtual events, organized by Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, aim to support the nation’s recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The series kicks off on November 16 with a virtual telethon broadcast from the Creative Production and Training Centre (CPTC) studios in Jamaica, featuring performances by Christopher Martin, Masicka, and Nigy Boy. The telethon will run from 3:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with additional acts to be announced. The concert series will also span global cities, including two shows in London at Wembley Arena on November 13 and December 18, headlined by British rapper Dizzee Rascal and David Rodigan. South Florida will host a concert on December 18 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with Shaggy as the main act, while another event will take place simultaneously at Miramar Regional Park. Further concerts are planned for New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC. Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange emphasized that the initiative aims to boost national morale, inspire volunteerism, and raise funds for Jamaica’s long-term recovery. All proceeds will be directed toward the national recovery program.
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Playwright Jeandon Bartholomew debuts play at Monthly Readers Theatre Series
Playwrights Workshop Trinbago (PWT) is set to host its Monthly Readers Theatre Series (MRTS) on November 5, featuring a cold reading of *Trigger Warning: Someone Dies*, a debut play by Jeandon Bartholomew. The event will take place at 7 pm at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, located at 6 Newbold Street, St Clair. Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend and participate in the post-reading discussion to provide valuable feedback for the playwright.
*Trigger Warning: Someone Dies* follows the story of Adewale and Adebimpe, two engaged detectives who, on their way to a Sunday dinner, are tasked with unraveling the mystery behind their aunt’s sudden death. Set against the backdrop of Port of Spain’s vibrant yet shadowy streets, the play explores themes of family, duty, and love as the couple navigates a web of secrets and suspects.
Jeandon Bartholomew, the playwright, is a multifaceted creative force with a master’s degree in human and social psychology. Beyond his writing, Bartholomew is an adult literacy teacher, a tenor in the Marionettes Chorale, and a former restaurant manager. With extensive experience in HR, customer service, and addiction therapy, he brings a unique perspective to his work. As secretary of the National Drama Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NDATT), Bartholomew is a passionate advocate for the arts and community development.
The MRTS serves as a critical platform for emerging playwrights, offering them an opportunity to refine their scripts through live readings and audience feedback. PWT invites actors, directors, producers, and the general public to attend and engage in the creative process. Attendees may even be called upon to participate as readers, making the event an interactive and collaborative experience.
For more information about PWT, script submissions, or upcoming events, contact playwrightsworkshoptt@gmail.com, call or WhatsApp 351-6293, or visit their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram: @playwrightsworkshoptt.
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Shakuhachi Concert celebrates 50 Years of Japan–Grenada Ties
Marking the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Grenada, the Embassy of Japan is hosting a captivating Shakuhachi Concert. This unique event will feature the celebrated Shakuhachi flautist Yosuke Irie, offering an evening of traditional Japanese bamboo flute music. The concert is scheduled for November 13, 2025, at the Grenada Boys’ Secondary School (GBSS) in Tanteen, St George’s, from 6 to 7 PM, with doors opening at 5 PM. Admission is free, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese bamboo flute, is renowned for its ethereal and emotionally resonant sound, deeply rooted in Japanese musical heritage. Attendees can anticipate a diverse program featuring original compositions, popular anime themes, and a special collaboration with the Grenada National School Orchestra. This event not only celebrates the enduring friendship between Japan and Grenada but also provides a rare opportunity for the Caribbean audience to experience Japanese traditional music.
The Embassy of Japan extends a warm invitation to the Grenadian public, including music lovers, students, and cultural organizations, to join this cultural celebration. The concert aims to foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the two nations. For further inquiries, please contact the Embassy of Japan at [email protected].
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Monday, November 3, 2025
New York City was abuzz with glamour and creativity on October 28 as notable figures from the worlds of fashion, beauty, and entertainment gathered for a series of high-profile events. Award-winning journalist and beauty expert Kayla Greaves made a striking appearance at Showgirl LIVE: A Modern Renaissance, an exclusive event hosted by Harlem Perfume Co. The evening featured a fireside chat with founder Teri Johnson, celebrating the brand’s latest fragrance, Showgirl, inspired by iconic figures Josephine Baker and Florence Mills. Meanwhile, actress Taylour Paige turned heads on The Jennifer Hudson Show, showcasing a chic fall ensemble that included the Diotima Medusa Skirt and Khaite S/S 2026 Bomber Jacket. Paige discussed her upcoming role in HBO Max’s horror series IT: Welcome to Derry and shared insights into how motherhood has influenced her personal and professional life. Jamaican-Canadian model Winnie Harlow also stole the spotlight, delivering a flawless Halloween-inspired look. Additionally, Harlow paid homage to Whitney Houston by recreating the cover artwork for the legendary singer’s hit I Wanna Dance With Somebody, with the help of makeup artist Adam Burrell and hairstylist Ashanti Lation. The week kicked off with a celebration of fashion and artistry, offering a refreshing blend of inspiration and style.
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Shenseea signed to Since ’93 and Columbia Records
Riki Bleau, the visionary founder and co-president of Since ’93, the UK’s premier black-owned record label, has described his collaboration with Jamaican dancehall sensation Shenseea as a “full circle moment.” This partnership marks a significant milestone in both their careers, as Shenseea’s debut single, *Boss Up*, was released under Since ’93 and Columbia Records on October 24. This release follows her departure from Interscope Records last year, signaling a new chapter in her musical journey.
Bleau, a seasoned music executive with deep Caribbean roots, first connected with Shenseea in 2017. Although initial plans to collaborate didn’t materialize, their paths crossed again this summer, leading to a long-term deal. Bleau emphasized the strategic importance of the UK and Europe as pivotal markets for Caribbean and African artists, citing the success of icons like Bob Marley and Shabba Ranks, as well as contemporary stars such as Wizkid and Burna Boy. He expressed confidence in Shenseea’s potential to achieve international acclaim, leveraging the combined expertise of Since ’93 and Columbia Records.
*Boss Up*, produced by Kristopher Riddick-Tynes and Alex Goldblatt, samples Blu Cantrell’s 2001 hit *Hit Em Up Style (Oops!)*. The track is the first step in a broader strategy to elevate Shenseea’s career, building on her established foundation in the US market. Bleau highlighted the collaborative efforts of his team, including Columbia’s marketing experts and Since ’93’s A&R division, to ensure Shenseea’s global success.
Since ’93, founded in 2016, has a proven track record of nurturing talent, having worked with chart-topping artists like Labrinth, Sam Smith, and Tems. Bleau’s Caribbean heritage and personal connections to Jamaican culture have also shaped his career. He has previously managed Popcaan and collaborated with Vybz Kartel, further cementing his reputation as a champion of Caribbean music.
Bleau’s journey in the music industry began at Channel U, a groundbreaking UK youth culture TV platform, where he honed his skills in talent discovery and promotion. His partnership with Shenseea represents not only a professional milestone but also a personal triumph, bridging his Caribbean heritage with his global ambitions.
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As cost of alcohol increases: Kinetic Mas invites people to bring their drinks
In a bold and unconventional move, Kinetic Mas, a prominent Carnival band, has decided to reduce the price of its costumes in response to increased alcohol prices. This decision comes after Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo announced higher excise duties on alcohol and tobacco during the 2025/26 budget presentation. Rather than passing the increased costs onto masqueraders, Kinetic Mas chose to embrace a nostalgic approach, reminiscent of the days when participants brought their own alcohol to Carnival celebrations. The band’s 2026 presentation, titled *You…The Masterpiece*, designed by artist Sheldon Warner, will proceed despite rising geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. Peter Samuel, the band’s leader, emphasized that their masqueraders are more focused on the artistry of the costumes than the alcohol experience. The band plans to maintain its medium size, hosting around 400 participants, and will offer discounts to early registrants. While the increased alcohol prices pose challenges, Samuel believes this could benefit local vendors and reshape the Carnival economy. However, geopolitical tensions, particularly between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela, cast uncertainty over Carnival 2026. Samuel remains hopeful, stating that dedicated masqueraders will still participate. If Carnival 2026 is canceled, Kinetic Mas plans to showcase its creations at other international Carnivals. The band’s decision reflects a commitment to preserving the cultural essence of Carnival while navigating economic and political complexities.


