Ebuzz News
Sound Forge Delivering 7 Carnival Shows Over 7 Days as They ‘Defend We Culture.’
There’s now a buzz across Trinidad and Tobago as event promoters, inclusive of artistes who are bent on keeping the spirit of Carnival and Soca music, alive, are announcing events at venues dubbed, ‘safe zones’ for vaccinated patrons, across the country.
Beginning on February 22nd, the Sound Forge which stands at Lot 6, Christopher Samuel Drive, Mucurapo, will host something called, ‘Defend We Culture.’ It’s a bold statement being made by the team as they prepare to stage seven shows over a seven day period.
“We know that this is not an ideal situation, but we felt as though so much has been missed over the past two years as not just us, but the world has had to adapt to our ‘new normal’,” said Sound Forge’s Communications Consultant, Leisel Douglas. She explained that the team saw a unique opportunity to utilise the Sound Forge to ‘Defend the Culture’ and its magic during this time. It’s the most viable option against losing the essence of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and not proofing it for generations to come.
Partnering with various stakeholders, Sound Forge has put together an impressive calendar featuring many aspects of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. Douglas said the experience will feature traditional Carnival characters, soca artistes, calypsonians, and a Carnival Village. Shows start on February 22nd with Freetown Collective and run throughout Carnival week culminating with David Rudder’s High Mas on Carnival Monday, February 28th. Sound Forge will partner with the Port- of- Spain City Corporation for a fusion of pan and calypso carded for Carnival Friday, February 25th. Also headlining shows are Preedy and 3 Canal with the A-Team Band commanding Saturday’s offering.
“The venue is a verified safe zone and prep work is ongoing to facilitate the events,” Douglas explained. “We did Kes last year, so a lot of what we need is already in place. Seats will be socially distanced, sanitisation stations available throughout the venue, proof of vaccination for entry is a must, and we intend to go below even what is considered a safe capacity for the venue,” she said.
Tickets for show access both physically and virtually went on sale on Monday February, 7th. Tickets for the physical access are only available at the box office located at the venue. For additional details, follow @sound.forge on Instagram.
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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.