Ebuzz News
Archived: Randy Glasgow Calls for Carnival 2022 Feasibility Study.
Even as NCC Chairman, Winston Gyspy Peters along with the Carnival Bands Association have hinted that they could be ready to pull off Carnival in February, 2022, promoter, Randy Glasgow is adamant that a feasibility study is needed before any kind of decision is made. Today, Glasgow called on Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley to refrain from taking the advice of National Carnival Commission Chairman, Winston ‘Gypsy’ Peters, to host any kind of carnival in February 2022, pointing to the increased COVID-19 cases and deaths in the country.
“We are suggesting that the NCC first do a feasibility study to stage a Hybrid version of Carnival in 2022, in August or September,” said Glasgow, noting that there would be no clashing of carnivals with New York or London, should they host their festivals, next year. “At this hybrid version, we must ensure that, once funding is coming from government, our soca artistes, steel pan players, calypsonians, the mas fraternity, chutney singers and other creatives be the main beneficiaries of any government financial contribution,” said Randy.
He suggested that the hybrid version of Carnival in 2022, be used strategically, as a marketing tool to effectively promote the return of Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival in 2023. “For instance, let’s use the entire roadway around the Queen’s Park Savannah as the stage for mas revellers to enjoy and display their mas, practising social distancing and observing other health and safety protocols set by the Ministry of Health and strictly enforced,” he said, adding that the same could be done across other safe zones in the country, using stadia perimeters and large recreation grounds. Glasgow endorsed the concept of carnival related entertainment events and shows across the country, using designated safe zones and facilities, but maintained that the NCC’s rationale for wanting to host some kind of carnival in 2022 “is not in the best interest of our country and the citizens at this time.”
Last week. in an interview with EBUZZTT, Mr. Peters said while the Miami Carnival model did in fact work effectively for them, this did not mean that Trinidad and Tobago could ultimately follow suit. He explained that the dynamics surrounding Miami’s culture, its people and its resources, were not the same for Trinidad and Tobago, and as such, while some elements of the festival’s execution could be emulated, he would not say this was a reason for T&T to go ahead with hosting the festival in 2022.
Glasgow, in quoting Peters via other forums as saying, “If Miami could stage a carnival, we could do it too,” said he does not agree. “First of all, Miami has the healthcare infrastructure and professional manpower to handle any COVID-19 outbreak if one did occur. T&T is not in any position presently to handle any massive outbreak if one occurred.
Glasgow further urged the NCC and its main stakeholders to work with the Ministry of Health in getting unvaccinated, creative stakeholders, vaccinated.
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.