By now everyone knows that Machel Montano has recruited a new troop of dancers to ensure that his 2014 stage show is nothing short of FRESH! The artiste who in 2013 signed on to European music label AZ in Paris, has, according to a recent article by Trinidad Express journalist Nigel Telesford, taken advantage of the expertise of fashion designer Susie Culini and creative director Doug Miller, who, together, commandeer, a company called Zen Arts. It was learnt that Machel’s been working with the company for the past three years and now, the company has incorporated international dancers and they’ll be aiding Machel with choreography and creating costumes for his events. The debut of the new lineup was seen at Fantasy Carnival’s Secret Saturday event last weekend. In T&T, some have seen the move as a negative one, claiming that Montano has ousted his ‘locals’ for foreign talent, however, regardless of how it may seem to some, the reality is, many are eager to see just what what Montano and his new troop of acrobatic ladies have in store.
Machel Montano is ready for the road with his new track, ‘Ministry of the Road’
In a recent YouTube post, Montano’s camp posted a behind the scenes look of the troop as they rehearsed. In the clip, Montano is seen and heard directing the ladies and the choreographer toward exactly what he wants.
To date, Machel has released just about nine tracks, among them, a power soca single called, ‘Ministry of the Road”- a track that’s already being touted as the anthem for the road among die hard masqueraders.
Separately, many await a Power Soca Monarch contender from Montano’s fellow Power Soca Monarch king, Super Blue. To date, the veteran entertainer has released two tracks, ‘Spankin’ and ‘Champion Daddy’- neither of which have lifted the hopes of his fans.
Well known event promoter, Glenroy Watson, has passed away. He died of natural causes on April 1st, in Port -of- Spain, Trinidad.
Watson’s legacy in the event landscape in Trinidad and Tobago stands as one rooted in the philosophy of delivering value to patrons, something that was the benchmark of every ‘I Am Legend’ concert in T&T and certainly countless other events hosted across the region and internationally.
Hands on and meticulous in his approach, Watson prided himself as a no nonsense promoter.
Most recently, in the aftermath of Carnival 2026, he hosted the Majah Hype comedy show, ‘Majah Issues’, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts, in Trinidad and was preparing for a major concert event in Trinidad, at the time of his passing.
At this time, the bereaved extends gratitude to well- wishers and asks for privacy and understanding as preparations for Watson’s home-going ceremony get underway.
All further details will be relayed at a later time.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Destra with King David Michael Rudder.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
Destra’s daughter, Xaiya on the piano.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.
error: This content is protected. if you wish to use this content in anyway please contact us.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.