Ebuzz News
Panorama in Miami Set to Bring Big Vibes and Excitement on October 6th.
Attendees will not only be in for an exciting music performance, but they’ll also get to witness fierce competition. “At this year’s event, we’re going to have seven bands competing for the trophy,” said Dexter Bleasdell, Panorama Manager for the Miami Carnival. “Aside from the competing local groups, we have bands from St. Thomas, New York City, and Trinidad and Tobago.”
“Carib Brewery USA is thrilled to be part of the vibrant celebration at Miami Carnival, where Carib Beer is proudly recognized as the official beer of Miami Carnival. Our commitment to quality and culture aligns perfectly with this event, and we’re excited to raise a toast to unity, diversity, and the spirit of Carnival in Miami. Join us from October 6 to 8 for an unforgettable weekend of fun and flavor as we make memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy responsibly,” said Malissa Sylvester, CEO of Carib Brewery USA.
The steelpan originated in Trinidad and Tobago and holds special significance as the only new instrument invented in the 20th century. T&T’s first Panorama event took place in 1963, and the event has been adopted in the Caribbean, the United States, and some European countries.
Miami Carnival’s Panorama kicks off a weekend of activities for Miami Carnival that include J’ouvert on Saturday and Sunday’s parade of bands and concert. In past years, the steelpan competition has attracted multigenerational audiences.
“At Panorama, people come out to celebrate the steel drum,” Bleasdell says. “You have grandparents who love the instrument, which debuted more or less around their time. The older generation is excited to see their kids and grandkids participate, so you could easily have three generations sitting in the stands.”
The judges for the competition hail from South Florida, Trinidad and Tobago, and other Caribbean islands and are well-versed in the musical tradition, some having been in a steelpan band themselves. During the competition, bands are judged on arrangement, performance, tone, and rhythm, and this year, the reigning Panoramaband winner, Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, is back to defend their title.
“This event is so special because of the number of pan players who come from all over the world,” says Lauderhill Steel Ensemble band frontline player Jeremy Phillips. “The Miami Carnival always pays tribute to steelpan music, and this is an event I look forward to every year.”
Preparation for the competition takes nearly a year, and the organizers of the Miami Carnival are committed to preserving the steel band tradition with the annual competition.
“One of the best parts of the Miami Carnival is the signature Panorama event,” Bleasdell said. “It’s an event that everyone can enjoy, and Miami’s Carnival attracts people who want to enjoy the rich Caribbean culture that they were either introduced to or born into.”
For more information about Miami Carnival, visit: https://miamicarnival.org/.
Ebuzz News
‘I Am Legend’ Concert Promoter, Glenroy Watson Has Passed Away.
Caribbean Buzz
Destra Delivers Powerfully at Reflections.
“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.
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.
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.