Punta Cana, DR – The Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino has once again redefined Halloween entertainment in the Caribbean with its tenth annual theatrical extravaganza, ‘Luna de Sangre’ (Moon of Blood). This year, the resort introduced a bold new opening act titled ‘Abracadabra,’ a genre-defying tribute to the iconic Lady Gaga, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of performance art. The ‘Abracadabra’ segment delves into themes of internal conflict, doubt, and ethereal glamour, blending opera and theater styles in a provocative homage to Gaga’s avant-garde artistry. Roxanna Román Báez, the show’s General Producer and Artistic Director, emphasized Gaga’s influence, noting her groundbreaking reinvention and unwavering support for the Drag Queen community, who are the stars of the production. The opening act featured 40 dancers, a massive cast-iron cage as a centerpiece, and a meticulously designed light show, setting the tone for the 60-minute spectacle. The full ‘Luna de Sangre’ show transported audiences through a series of elaborate scenes, including ‘Monarca del Infierno’ and ‘Encadenada en el Infierno,’ with dancers adorned in intricate period costumes and fantasy attire. The night concluded with the grand finale, ‘Somos Nosotros,’ a triumphant celebration of the production’s creative vision, led by Román Báez and supported by choreographer Jhoanna Román Báez and costume designers Cristian Adolfo de los Santos and Freddy Fernando Gutiérrez.
分类: entertainment
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From Morne Du Don to runways in Paris and Milan
Julzzallure, a brand synonymous with bold individuality and innovative fashion, has captured the attention of the global fashion scene. Founded by Julietta Raoul, a Saint Lucian native now residing in Canada, the brand made waves at Paris Fashion Week with its signature hats showcased during the ‘Flying Solo NYC’ production. Fashion Week Online praised Julzzallure for its daring fusion of creativity and sophistication, describing each piece as a celebration of personal empowerment. Raoul’s journey from her humble beginnings in Morne Du Don, Castries, to gracing international runways is a testament to her resilience and passion. Her love for fashion began with hair styling, a skill she honed from the age of eight. After migrating to Canada in 1992, Raoul expanded her expertise, becoming a licensed hair professional and eventually creating the first Afro-textured mannequins in Alberta. Her foray into hat design began in 2024, leading to her participation in Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Despite challenges, Raoul’s work received overwhelming acclaim, particularly in Paris. Now, she is developing a line of hair products and planning to showcase her talent in her homeland. Raoul’s advice to aspiring creatives is to embrace their unique ideas and persevere, as every individual has something distinct to offer.
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New documentary explores links between Grenadian estate and Scottish owners
The highly anticipated documentary ‘Echoes of Waltham,’ which explores the historical ties between Grenada’s Waltham Estate and Scotland’s Paxton House, is set to make its Grenada debut at the 1261 Film Festival this weekend. The film, produced by British-Grenadian journalist Zoe Smith and directed by Meschida Phillip, features students from Bonaire Government School, Waltham elders, and historian Dr. Angus Martin. It is part of the broader ‘Island Echoes’ project, which aims to redefine Grenada’s engagement with its colonial past while fostering heritage tourism and education. The documentary’s premiere marks the launch of the ‘Island Echoes Symposium,’ an international event scheduled for April 2026 in St. Mark, Grenada. The symposium will bring together scholars, artists, and tourism experts for panels, archaeological workshops, and community programs, timed to coincide with the annual St. Mark Organisation for Development celebrations. Smith envisions the initiative as a sustainable model for heritage-based economic development, transforming historical sites into sources of cultural pride and economic opportunity. The documentary also highlights the complex transatlantic connections between Grenada, Scotland, and England, tracing the legacy of Ninian Home, a Scottish merchant who built Paxton House using wealth generated from enslaved labor in the Caribbean. The film’s Grenada premiere follows its successful screening at CARIFESTA’s film festival in Barbados, where it resonated deeply with Caribbean audiences. Smith hopes the project will empower Grenadians to reclaim their narratives and inspire similar initiatives across the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.islandechoes.org.
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Public urged to support 50th anniversary restaging of Alwin Bully’s “Streak”; first show tonight is tonight
The 50th anniversary restaging of *Streak*, a groundbreaking play by the late Dominican playwright Alwin Bully, is set to captivate audiences on November 1st and 2nd at St. Gerard’s Hall. Organizers are rallying public support to breathe new life into Dominican theatre, emphasizing the cultural and educational significance of the production. Tickets, priced at EC$75, are available at Bullseye Pharmacy, Jay’s Bookstore, and through Lac Cour des Arts members. For those unable to attend in person, a pay-per-view livestream is accessible for US$25 via Multimedia Solutions and Dominica News Online. Mobile banking and delivery options are also available for ticket purchases.
Anita Bully, the playwright’s widow, highlighted the family-friendly nature of *Streak*, urging families to bring children to experience its rich portrayal of Dominica’s historical and social fabric. Organizers addressed concerns about ticket pricing, explaining the substantial costs of restoring St. Gerard’s Hall, which had previously served as a church. The production, in preparation since May, reflects a significant investment of time and resources.
Director Severin McKenzie underscored the historical importance of *Streak*, originally staged in 1975 as Bully’s first full-length play. It introduced Dominican audiences to calypso theatre and explored themes such as the Black Power movement, the rise of Rastafari, and youth identity struggles. The 2025 restaging features a diverse cast, blending seasoned actors with students from Dominica State College and members of local theatre groups. The production integrates drama, dance, music, poetry, and drumming, offering a multifaceted exploration of enduring themes like police brutality, cultural identity, and national independence.
McKenzie emphasized the educational value of reviving Dominican theatre, noting its importance for students studying the performing arts. The production also pays tribute to Alwin Bully, who designed Dominica’s national flag, and coincides with the country’s 47th Independence anniversary. Organizers urged the public to attend and support the arts, describing *Streak* as a powerful social commentary that encourages reflection on societal roles.
Gloria Augustus of Lac Cour des Arts, co-producer of the play, concluded with a call to action: ‘Next is now,’ she said, urging investment in the future of Dominican drama.
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Gillian Lucky unveils collection on Nov 9: One Day of Star Wars
In 1977, a ten-year-old girl named Gillian Lucky sat in a cinema, utterly captivated by the opening moments of *Star Wars: A New Hope*. The iconic theme by John Williams, the scrolling yellow text, and the epic starship battle ignited a lifelong passion for the franchise. Today, Justice Gillian Lucky, chairman of the Judicial Education Institute, credits that moment as a defining influence on her career and values. For her, *Star Wars* is more than a film series—it’s a moral compass that champions justice, integrity, and hope.
Justice Lucky’s connection to *Star Wars* runs deep. As a child, she was drawn to the story’s clear battle between good and evil, resonating with her innate sense of fairness. The characters’ triumphs, particularly the defeat of Darth Vader, mirrored her own aspirations to fight for justice. Over the years, she has amassed an impressive collection of *Star Wars* memorabilia, including a cherished Yoda figurine, which serves as a reminder of the franchise’s enduring lessons.
On November 9, Justice Lucky will share her collection with the public at Arnim’s Art Galleria in Port of Spain. The event, titled *One Day of Star Wars*, will feature giveaways, trivia, costume contests, and an exhibition of her memorabilia. A portion of the proceeds from sales will benefit primary schools in Trinidad and Tobago, emphasizing the values of honesty, respect, and justice that *Star Wars* embodies.
Justice Lucky’s favorite films include *The Empire Strikes Back*, which introduced her to the wise Master Yoda, and *Rogue One*, which highlights the sacrifices made for the greater good. She also admires the inclusivity of the *Star Wars* universe, where characters are defined by their actions rather than their appearance. This sense of inclusion aligns with her own beliefs and professional ethos.
For Justice Lucky, *Star Wars* is a source of inspiration and resilience. The franchise’s themes of perseverance and hope have guided her through personal and professional challenges. As she prepares to share her passion with the public, she hopes to inspire future generations to fight for what is right, reminding them that, no matter how dark the moment, there is always a path forward. May the Force be with you.
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More than just Monday wear: Asha Wadada embraces womanhood
Inspired by her personal evolution as a woman, mother, and creative, Asha Wadada, co-founder of House of Wadada, has unveiled her first solo Carnival collection, *alter HER*. The collection, launched in October, is a tribute to the diverse layers of womanhood, celebrating confidence, sensuality, power, and self-discovery. Wadada shared with WMN on October 29 that the collection emerged from her journey of embracing every facet of her identity, including the parts she once hid. “I wanted to express all of myself—the sensual, the confident, the grounded, the bold—without apology,” she explained. The collection’s name, *alter HER*, reflects the idea of a woman’s inner self, waiting to step into the spotlight. The designs, adorned with sequins and sheer mesh, are both glamorous and versatile, suitable for Carnival Monday and beyond. Wadada emphasized that the collection is not just about fashion but also about empowering women to embrace their complexity and express their true selves unapologetically. The response to *alter HER* has been overwhelmingly positive, with women connecting deeply with its message. Wadada, who also teaches yoga in Port of Spain, hopes the collection will inspire women to take risks and feel confident in their style. The line will debut at Carnival 2026 on February 16, marking a milestone in Wadada’s 15-year journey in the fashion industry. From her early days customizing clothes with her twin sister Ayanna Diaz to creating a lifestyle brand rooted in self-expression and feminine power, Wadada’s work continues to resonate with women across the Caribbean and beyond.
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Andrea C Hoffer explores the House of Ambiences at Softbox Gallery
German-born, Tobago-based artist Andrea C Hoffer has unveiled her latest exhibition, ‘House of Ambiences,’ at the Soft Box Gallery in St Clair. This collection marks her first dedicated exploration of interior spaces, offering a deeply nostalgic portrayal of Trinidad and Tobago’s older homes. The exhibition, comprising 14 meticulously crafted paintings, captures the warmth, history, and quiet presence of these spaces, evoking a sense of timelessness and personal connection. Hoffer’s inspiration stemmed from a visit to a house on Cotton Hill Road, St Clair, where the interplay of shadows, lighting, and architectural elements left an indelible impression. This experience inspired the exhibition’s centerpiece, a large-scale painting that embodies the essence of ‘Trini at home sweet home.’ Hoffer’s works are rich with details familiar to Caribbean households—linoleum floors, circular ventilation bricks, well-worn furniture, and potted plants. Plants, a recurring motif in her art, reflect her personal affinity for greenery, as her Tobago studio is nestled within a lush garden. Hoffer employs the ancient egg tempera technique, mixing pigments with egg yolk and linseed oil to create a layered, earthy texture. Remarkably, she paints entirely from memory, eschewing sketches or photographs. Her process is intuitive, allowing the essence of each space to emerge organically. Many of her works incorporate historical elements, such as a door from her daughters’ great-grandfather’s home, which survived Hurricane Flora in 1963. These artifacts, imbued with personal and generational significance, add depth to her compositions. Hoffer’s artistic journey began in 1996 when she first visited Tobago, captivated by its natural beauty. Since then, she has exhibited her work internationally, blending European influences with Caribbean themes. Her unique style, which combines impressionism, abstraction, and realism, invites viewers to embark on their own imaginative journeys. ‘House of Ambiences’ runs until November 29, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring charm of Caribbean interiors.
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2026 Best Reggae Album Grammy predictions
As the 68th annual Grammy Awards draw near, the music industry is abuzz with excitement and speculation. The prestigious event, set to take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, aims to honor the finest recordings, compositions, and artists from August 31, 2024, to August 30, 2025. Nominations will be unveiled on November 7, 2025, and among the most anticipated categories is Best Reggae Album. Industry experts and fans alike are engaging in spirited discussions, particularly on social media, about which albums might secure a spot among the final five nominees. Here are some standout contenders: Vybz Kartel’s ‘Heart & Soul,’ released on August 29, 2025, features hits like ‘I Know’ and ‘Bad Bad Bad,’ showcasing his continued dominance in the dancehall scene. Mojo Morgan’s ‘Jamaica Love (EP)’ is another strong candidate, with its nine tracks, including the standout ‘Make It,’ featuring Popcaan and Chronic Law. Jesse Royal’s ‘No Place Like Home’ offers a modern and innovative sound, with collaborations from Grammy-winning producers and artists like Melanie Fiona and Kabaka Pyramid. Keznamdi’s ‘Blood & Fyah’ is a critically acclaimed sophomore release, featuring guest appearances from Marlon Asher and Mavado. Mr Vegas’s ‘Ghetto Reggae,’ an independently released project, highlights his enduring talent and dedication to the genre. Lila Ike’s ‘Treasure Self Love’ is a deeply personal project that showcases her vulnerability and songwriting prowess, with contributions from Protoje and H.E.R. Lastly, Black Pearl Livingston’s ‘Your Richness is Life,’ a debut album rooted in reality, romance, and Rastafari, marks a significant milestone in her career. As the countdown to the nominations begins, these albums stand out as potential frontrunners in the Best Reggae Album category.
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Hamidullah brings a night of kaiso, humour, drama to Kafe Blue
Renowned calypsonian Hamidullah Wahid, known simply as Hamidullah, is set to headline the much-anticipated Moods & Views calypso concert at Kafe Blues on Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, on November 8 at 7 pm. The event will showcase a stellar lineup of artists, including Ras Kommanda, Valentino, King Luta, Sexy Suzy, Kid Kallaloo (Julien Hunte), Pharoah, and Skero. The performers will be backed by the Michelle Henry Encore Band, with Errol Fabien and Damion Melville serving as the evening’s MCs. Born into a family deeply rooted in calypso and steelpan traditions, Hamidullah’s musical journey began in the Amboys Steel Orchestra in Belmont. Over the years, he has become a prominent figure in the calypso scene, performing in numerous tents and co-founding the Klassic Russo tent in Port of Spain. A founding member of the Trinbago Unified Calypso Organisation (TUCO), Hamidullah is celebrated for his humorous hits like ‘One Stick of Matches’ and ‘You Can’t Land.’ His collaboration with Ras Kommanda through the Kaiso Unit has produced annual calypso concerts, offering a platform for artists to showcase their talent beyond the Carnival season. Hamidullah expressed his excitement for the upcoming show, highlighting the diverse talents of the performers and urging fans to join in the celebration of calypso music.

