GUYANA
Twelve years ago, Poetry Night at the Upscale Restaurant was more of an intimate affair; the programme took the form of intense readings by the likes of David Dabydeen, Al Creighton and Ruel Johnson; and the crowd consisted of a handful of likeminded souls who wished for nothing more than exposure to a dying art.
In 2008, Yaphet Jackman – a steady patron of the ongoing event – submitted his interest to the coordinators to undertake the venture and help it grow. As time went on, the crowd grew and came to include a diversified constituency of scholars, students and even curious onlookers. The range of performances expanded from traditional readings to the risqué and rhythmic forms of spoken word poetry.
Soon, Upscale Poetry Night became a highly anticipated monthly event. Today, Jackman –now the Special Projects Coordinator of the Upscale Restaurant – feels like a “proud father” having seen the evolution of the 12-year-old social event. Speaking with Guyana Times Entertainment, he expressed immense pride in having personally been involved in its growth: “I have seen Poetry Night grow from a handful of people to a room that is bursting at the seams; I have seen poets sought after for external performances after having performed on stage. Upscale Poetry Night has played an integral role in providing a forum and allowing the art form to grow.”
This forum has also provided for an upsurge in performances by phenomenal young writers, who before, would not have had the opportunity or the drive to come forth with their talent, Jackman said. He expressed joy in seeing the increase in free form poetry, stating that it allows for originality and contributes to the writers’ sense of identity. His joy contrasts with popular concerns from various schools of thought which purport that the overflow of free form poetry pays a lethal blow to traditional form, thereby contributing to the gradual decline of poetry altogether. Jackman strongly believes otherwise: “I refuse to say that traditional poetry is dying.
Free form is a form, people do not understand that. Even with the growth of new forms, writers are now tapping into the older forms and adding to it.” This innovation therefore creates a new window for writing, leading to poets seeking to learn the traditional aesthetics in order to package their work “in a more relevant and active way”.
Regardless of its immense growth over the years, Jackman believes that, as in all things, growth has not yet peaked for poetry in Guyana and this is due in part to several factors. “People have idiosyncrasies that hinder the growth process. What writers need to do is appreciate the rest of people who are in the fraternity,” he said. He stated that one of the major downfalls in the local writing community – especially among young writers – is the tendency to pay more attention to the works of writers abroad rather than locally. He added that local writers also need to be more receptive to constructive criticism about their work; a practice that is yet to be adopted within the writing community.
Support needed
Opportunities for growth are also lacking at an institutional level, Jackman believes, as there is much room for more ventures aimed at honing the craft of writing among Guyanese. “Apart from the Children’s National Dramatic Poetry Competition, there isn’t much else which is done to encourage students to keep writing or to further their talent. So in school –from nursery, right up – English and Literature have just been given a grade and not been glamourised as a career,” he said. This unfortunate state of things therefore leaves no room for students or teachers to be encouraged as they will see “no success story” in the area of English unless one looks for such success outside of Guyana.
“Our local writers are more recognised outside of Guyana because we do not have a cultural recognition of our own. So people who may be inspired to write Guyana’s story will not want to because no recognition is there,” he said.
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With more support, young talent like Khrista Christina of North Ruimveldt Multilateral School can make it big in dramatic poetry
uyanese fashion enthusiasts can expect to see much more from the local fashion line ShaSha Designs in the future. Since her last fashion show in 2012, designer and creator of ShaSha Designs, Keisha Edwards has been busy working on various projects and collaborating with clients on an individual and commercial scale. The fashionista has also been showcasing herself abroad: “In 2013 I was invited to display my designs at the Annual Caribbean Style and Culture Fashion Awards and Showcase. Me and five other designers were given the opportunity to display our pieces at the White House and the Barbadian embassy,” Edwards said.
Speaking on the state of things in the local fashion industry, the young entrepreneur expressed what a pleasure it is to see its overall development over the years but said that there needs to be more support from the local public. “Fashion designers in the industry also need to support each other. I have learnt that as designers, we need to pay keen interest in developing our skills,” she said. She stated that designers should also invest in research and practice in order to develop a unique style as regards their designs and the branding and pack-
Edwards believes, however, that the fashion industry – like most other areas in the arts – needs much
more attention, because Guyana is not where it should be compared to the fashion capitals of the world. “Our industry is not perfect and there is much room for improvement in all areas (from the making of the clothes to the production of fashion shows), however, I do believe that with support from the government and the private sector industry, we will be comparable to other fashion industries,” Edwards said.
But she believes that designers still need to continue to hone their craft so as to be able to always put their best foot forward when the time calls for them to do so. She advises that young designers ensure that they have a plan for themselves, set goals and know exactly what is needed to achieve these goals. She suggests that research is also a crucial factor. “It is a business and an investment that you are making in yourself, so do as much research as you can… study the designers that you admire and take from them the techniques or advice you will need to reach to their level,” she said. Among other advice given includes learning to sew, a skill which she possesses and believes is priceless for a designer, as it saves money and helps designers to understand and explain their designs to the people they work with and design for. Most importantly, however, Edwards believes that in order to be successful as a designer, one must believe in yourself: “This is your dream and your goal. Not everyone is going to support or understand the vision. But you need to believe in yourself and keep pushing forward, because anything worth having is never easy… you also need to put God first in all that you do because your talents and gifts are nothing without him.”
Edwards has been involved in the fashion scene for quite some time, and above all else, she is impressed with how women in Guyana have transformed through fashion. “I find that more women are becoming fashion conscious, keeping up with current fashion trends from clothing to accessories. I think it is empowering and liberating at the same time,” she said.
Though her current projects will be kept under wraps for the moment, Edwards ensured that fashion fanatics will be amazed. She is also busy working on her summer collection which will be available in May of this year.
LLead singer of Kes the Band, Kees Dieffenthaller on Saturday evening in an exclusive interview said that he was impressed with the quality of soca music coming out of Guyana, while noting that the government and corporate Guyana need to invest in the existing talent.
Kees was the guest artiste at the recently concluded Carib Soca Monarch and had the opportunity to witness several artistes perform and said that he was left spellbound with the performance and more so, the hidden talent that Guyanese artistes possess.
The soca sensation explained that this is the first time he has been a part of Guyana’s Mash and it is clear to him that the celebration is taking the form of Carnival.
He compared Guyana to Trinidad where he explained that at one time Trinidadians were reserved in their support to their local music but with the emergence of great artistes, there was a shift in thinking and the way people see talent. “With new and consistent players in the game, it has help to change the way people view talent in their own country,” he added.
For the first time, Guyanese Jumo Primo represented Guyana in Trinidad and Tobago for the Power Soca Competition and Kees was there. He said that Jumo performed wonderfully and after that night’s performance, he wanted to see more
ink Show 30 will now be moving back to the National Cultural Centre tonight and will run until Sunday, March 2.
After a four-night run, held between February 20 and 24 at Parc Rayne, the producers have decided to move the show back to the NCC because Parc Rayne cannot seat large audiences.
When the decision was made to use Parc Rayne, the seating capacity was about 1150 but because of the relocation of the stage area, it reduced the seating capacity. The Link Show attracts over 20,000 persons on an annual basis.
The producers are working with the management of the NCC to get mobile cooling units and fans to cool the building. Additional sound equipment used at Parc Rayne will be added to the current system to ensure audibility.
The actors who are ready to entertain their fans are Henry Rodney, Rajan Tiwari, Michael Ignatius, Sonia Yarde, Sherry Ann Dyal, Leslyn Fraser, Mark LukeEdwards, Kijana Lewis, Tashandra Inniss, Nirmala Narine, Mark Kazim, Chris Gopaul, Sean Thompson and Nuriyyih Gerrard among others.
In addition to a belly of laughter nightly, there will be lots of prizes to be won. There will be nightly giveaways of small home appliances from Lucky Dollar, gemstones from Kings Jewellery World, gift vouchers and shopping bags from Bounty Supermarket and German’s Restaurant. Other prizes will be provided by Nigel’s Supermarket, Hurakabra River Resort, Arrowpoint Nature Resort, and Splashmins Resort.
Tickets are already on sale at Giftland OfficeMax, Nigel’s Supermarket, Ashmins Trading and the National Cultural Centre at a cost of $2000 and $1500.
but at the same time, he added that Guyana has to support their own. He thinks that Guyanese talent should be respected and given the recognition it deserves. He said that Guyana is a big place with a lot of potential, but again, before the artistes become famous, they need the push to get them there. He is optimistic in years to come that more Guyanese will be performing in Trinidad, Barbados, St Lucia, Jamaica and other Caribbean territories. Kees has been in Guyana on numerous occasions but being able to perform on the stage with 14 other soca artistes has definitely added to his experience here.
For him, he heads back to Trinidad and Tobago for Carnival Season and is ready for a number of concerts leading up to the big day. He will be promoting one big show and expects it to be grand, but when it comes to Carnival Monday and Tuesday; he is ready to “Bubble” on the roads.
He said that he was happy to be invited to Guyana to perform, especially around Mashramani and even though he had to put off a few gigs to be here, he feels his visit was worth the while. He said that it is always good to be away from home sometimes, claiming that it is a refreshing feeling.
The Trinidadian song writer and singer promises to be back as soon as possible.
Kees
Mark Kazim
Sean Thompson
Henry Rodney
Chris Gopaul
Keisha Edwards at her last fashion show “Fierce Expressions” in 2012
The Heatwave Band has proven to be one of the most versatile bands in Guyana and has been creating vibes at almost every event they perform at. Recently, the band has been backing the artistes in the Carib Soca Monarch and has done a fabulous job.
From mixing to stage settings to sound effects to the powerful voices and the extremely talented dancers, the band is aiming high. Its talented team include Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Johnson aka “Base” who plays the base guitar; Earl Bishop, keyboardist; Joshua Dennis, keyboardist; Devon Roberts, drummer; Carlvin
Burnette; Mark Batson and Jackie Hanover, lead singers; Robyn Thomas, Teanna Spellen, Abigail Brower and Troylyn Aaron, dancers; Andre Kissoon, front house engineer; Ivelaw Campbell, pianist and Jose’ Cheddie, stage engineer.
“Music has proven to be life and when it hits you, you feel no pain”. The Heatwave Band has embraced that thought and through music, has proven it also connects to every part of the human body.
Combined with soul catching melodies, high energy performances and pulsating rhythms that speak languages only the body could comprehend, Heatwave Band has rein-
vented music in Guyana, France, Suriname and the Caribbean.
For the past five years the Heatwave Band has been wowing the music arena with their performances. “Our musical abilities were proven when we were called to provide musical accompaniment for many local and international artistes to the likes of Machel Montano, Lil Rick, Onasis Joseph, Glen Washington, Turbulance, Admiral Bailey, Rupee, Flowa Dan, Natty King, and Daville among others who have performed here in Guyana and overseas.”
Whether entertaining 10 or 10,000, the band always delivers an energised
performance. Heatwave performs covers from all genres and performs original music from its lead singers. While few critics ever doubted their ability and success, it has achieved a lot during its five years of existence in entertainment. Their talents have attracted the major event sponsors here in Guyana. Companies such as Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited has contracted the band for its
Jingle and Song competition, ANSA McAL for the Carib Soca Monarch competition; Hits and Jams Entertainment’s Jamzone Summer Break and many other concerts.
In January 2013, the band included four sassy and energetic dancers to uplift its performances. Upon seeing the talent, the band is now contracted to be a part of the Media Mash Jump up; BOOM Concert; Culture, Youth
and Sport Ministry’s float parade; Bartica Jouvert; North West Showdown and Old Skool Reggae. Hardly getting time to hit the studio, the band is working on some new songs to hit the airwaves very soon. While it’s true that the Heatwave Band is a musical family of well talented members who love what they do, each member adds a unique ingredient to the pot of success.
Ten stunning beauties will hit the stage on May 26 to compete for the coveted title of Miss World Guyana (MWG) 2014 and a chance to represent Guyana on the international platform later in the year.
The 10 delegates were carefully selected by the Miss World Guyana Committee and they will be representing each administrative region.
Those who are in the running for the title are former Miss Guyana Jamzone, Jovan Wilson, 24, KelllyAnn Latchman, 18, Rebekah London, 19, Gericia Francis, 22, Ayana Whitehead, 18, Tiffany Megnath, 21, Rafieya Husain, 21, Cherese James, 23, Denicia Williams, 19, and Atisha Gaskill, 19.
They will be competing in the three pageant areas: the interview, a special skills competition, and the grand coronation show.
The interview is a 12-15 minute conversation with judges and contestants will be required to prepare resumes/ curriculum vitae on the opening job position of Miss World Guyana.
The special skills competition will have five specialised segments; namely fitness and sport, top model, talent, beach beauty, and humanitarian, which will allow contestants to earn bonus points toward their preliminary
scores. The grand coronation show will feature the final talent, swimsuit, and evening wear.
Preliminary scores for the interview and special skills competition will be added to the final round.
In preparation for the pageant, the contestants will receive training/coaching using the MWG online training resources portal in various
areas inclusive of public speaking, etiquette, yoga, image preparation, runway walking, and the like. Training has commenced in some areas.
Participation in MWG 2014 will see contestants being awarded various prizes. The queen’s package is inclusive of a US$5000-$10,000 scholarship for entry into college or for continuation of a degree programme for
which the candidate presently has a Grade Point Average of 3.5 or more; spending money and wardrobe for the Miss World contest; magazine spreads and photo shoots; smartphone and/or tablet for international usage; and other enhancement packages inclusive of image, travel, tourism, beauty and care, and business.
The package for the
runners-up include vouchers for the purchase of text books; packages from sponsors; and possible representation to other international pageants.
Additionally, prizes will be awarded for the special event skills winners: the participant awarded Miss Humanitarian will receive funding for her community service project; the Miss Talent winner will receive coaching in her area
of talent; and the Miss Fitness winner will receive one year of free fitness classes inclusive of company endorsements.
MWG 2014 is a platform to enable personal and professional growth of contestants in addition to the promotion of community service, beauty, fitness and talent. Participation in the pageant affords young women the opportunity to raise awareness on issues and causes affecting their communities as they serve as regional beauty and goodwill ambassadors of our great nation.
The Miss World Guyana pageant commenced in May 1966 and crowned its first title holder Umbilita Van Sluytman, who was also known as the Independence Queen and became Guyana’s first placement and semi-finalist in the Miss World 1966 pageant. The Miss World pageant is the first international pageant that Guyana achieved repeated successes in.
As a result, Guyana is known for having one of the longest consecutive placements in the history of the Miss World pageant. On May 26, 2013 Natasha Martindale was awarded the franchise from Miss World Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer, Julia Morley.
For more information on the contestants and the pageant, the public can visit the MWG website and their social media page – www. missworldguyana.com.
Heatwave band
Katherina Roshana, Miss Guyana Universe 2013 who also holds the title of Miss Guyana India has returned to Guyana, and is making her presence felt, almost instantaneously as she continues her religious and humanitarian work in her birth land.
Having heard that the Brickdam Mosque, the famous Masjid Dar-us-Salaam (Abode of Peace) was without a proper public address system, and that the members were inconvenienced during prayers and on special occasions, Roshana went into action, sourced her personal funds and purchased a state-of-theart public address system.
She stated that being a spiritual being and a religious
person at heart, she is moved by people, hence her purpose to serve forever, not merely during her reign as a multibeauty queen of Guyana.
The beauty queen presented the public address system on February 14 during a service, and told the members there that she had not attended that mosque for over a decade, and was happy to be there to make the presentation. She recalled the time when as a child she taught Arabic there, and was involved in personal spiritual activities.
The Miss Guyana Universe queen said she plans soon to make presentations of alarm systems to a Hindu temple and a church, in light of them being vandalised recently.
She also hopes to make a special visit to various parts of Guyana, in an attempt to connect and become closely acquainted with all ethnicities, and to help to build that bridge of goodwill, love and humanity as an International Ambassador of World Peace and Goodwill Ambassador of Peace in Guyana.
Organisations and groups
wishing to have the beauty queen visit their communities, churches, temples, schools or clubs to meet the people or youths, or present motivational talks, etc can make contact with Katherina Roshana via her personal Assistant Annmarie at 226-7541, or on facebook at: Katherina Roshana, Georgetown, Guyana.
The queen says she wishes to make a positive impact in the lives of people, particularly the vulnerable, the disabled and the needy, but will serve all.
The Wales Community Centre ground is the place to be on March 16 as Westsiderz Entertainment presents its inaugural Phagwah celebration under the name “Chutney Colour Fete”. The event will feature the best in the local chutney industry with reigning Guyanese monarch, Pooran Seeraj, Prince JP, Guyana Telephone and
Telegraph Bollywood Jingle winner, Halima Khan; Aamir Khan and Steven Ramphal.
Adding some excitement to the event will be members of the Ishara Dance Troupe who just returned from Trinidad and Tobago after creating a stir there.
Apart from the performances, there will be a packed day of sport including a cricket competition which will see the winner carting off $100,000. This competition will commence in the morning but later in the day, the domino competition will kick into gear. Patrons can enjoy free powder and sweetmeats which will be distributed.
As it gets dark, the party starts with the power concert which is expected to be steaming hot. On the night of the event, Prince JP and Bunty Singh will also be launching their new collaboration called “Phagwah in GT”.
The event is sponsored by Stag Beer, Westside Tax, J&R Service Station and 89.1 FM. Tickets cost only $500 and are available at Sunil DVD Club, Wales and Westsiderz Entertainment at the Vreed-enHoop Junction.
The question of what is needed for such recognition to materialise therefore remains. Jackman stated that more incentives, more workshops and more programmes such as the dramatic poetry and other writing competitions need to be introduced to the culture so as to attract the interests of young writers, recognise their talent and encourage them to enhance it. The recognition gained through these initiatives will give aspiring writers a goal which they can strive towards and examples which they can seek to emulate. “The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport have shown grand interest in having organisations like ours (Upscale) working with them, but we need funding in order to work,” Jackman said.
Until these improvements are made, however, Guyana has Upscale Poetry Night – the ever entertaining occasion where young writers can freely express themselves through the art of Spoken Word Poetry. Jackman is proud of the longevity of this event and the success it has brought to many a writer who has performed on that stage. “I think we have contributed and will continue to contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Guyana because there needs to be somewhere that creates a forum that allows people to grow their craft and we are glad to see other places do the same.” Yaphet – who is also the loved host of the monthly poetic experience – revealed that we can expect to see a more collaborative, externalised agenda of the Upscale Poetry movement in the coming year.
Berbicians are in for a treat this Saturday night as the Heatwave Band is looking to set the right tone for the Berbice Annual Costume and Float Parade which kickstarts at 10:00h on Sunday morning.
For the first time, the band in collaboration with the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry and the Regional Democratic
will be hosting the “All White Soca Fete” at the New Amsterdam Stelling Road. The show is expected to be filled with vibes, as some of the best soca artistes are ready and waiting to hit the stage. These include, members of the Heatwave Band, the Firestorm Dancers, X2, reigning Soca Monarch Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson, Roger Bowen and Lady Tickets for the event cost $500 and will be available at the gates on the night of the event. Music will be provided by Crown Vibes Entertainment.
“All White Soca Fete” is sponsored by Carib, Star Party Rental, Andre’s Supermarket, NCN and Boom FM. The event gets underway at 21:00h.
Pooran Seeraj
Aamir Khan
Prince JP
Steven Ramphal
Halima Khan
Ishara
Firestorm Dancers
Lady T
Miss Guyana Universe Katherina Roshana presenting the PA system to members of the Masjid Dar-us-Salaam
Yaphet Jackman
rinidadian Soca
TSensation “Swappi” set the stage for fantastic Mash Celebrations, after “Mashing up” the Merriman Mall on Saturday evening last as ANSA McAL hosted the third night of Stage 2.
Swappi, who made an appearance on stage after midnight had the crowd rocking as he dished out some of his tunes that are known by his fans in this part of the hemisphere. He was accompanied by two of his dancers who added some flavour to the excitement.
Decked out in all back with a bandana wrapped around his head, he invited a few young men on stage who thought that they can outclass a particular dancer of his. She weighed about 300 pounds but was very flexible.
them.
The reigning Calypso Monarch De Professor also performed at the show but was not too well received by the audience who from all indications, were already hyped and ready for soca. After his eight-minute presentation, the crowd barely gave a little clap as he left the stage.
Stealing the show was “Fine man” with his stand up comedy. There was not one
One of the four men who went to take up the challenge was able to lift the woman off the ground as
he continued his wining attack. The audience was enjoying every moment of it until the police abruptly ended the session, although there were other artistes slated to perform.
The actual live performances started with an exhilarating performance by the Heatwave Band’s lead singers Jackie Hanover, Calvin Burnette and Mark Batson. Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson also performed his winning tune in the Carib Soca Monarch, “Still in the Game”. He had his own followers and fully entertained
All roads will lead to the streets of Linden on Sunday, as the community will host its annual Mashramani float parade, in celebration of Guyana’s 44th Republic anniversary.
The celebration which originally started in the mining town in the year 1970 by the Jaycees is usually held one Sunday after the celebrations in Georgetown on February 23.
Organisers of the Region 10 Mashramani Committee said this year’s activity promises to be an exciting one, with all revellers for the float parade assembling in the vicinity of the Mackenzie High School on Purple Heart Street, and along Independence Avenue, all the way to the Five Corner area, Mackenzie.
The road march will culminate at the Bayroc Community Centre ground, Wismar. Two floats which were featured in the Linden “Mash bash” cultural activity in the community last Sunday are set to make a comeback this
Sunday on the road march and float parade. Additionally, the Region 10 Democratic Council (RDC) float which took to the streets of Georgetown last Sunday will be featured in the road parade. The float was designed by Lindener Colwyn Abrams. Other floats expected are the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry, ANSA McAL and Digicel.
Head of the organising committee Sharma Solomon said the RDC is pleased so far with the preparations for Sunday and is working to have a continuous economic arrangement centred around the Mashramani period, right through to the Linden Town Week observances which commence in March. On Tuesday, Solomon received a cheque from ANSA McAL Trading Ltd, which is a major sponsor of this year’s Linden celebrations. Several after-Mash party activities are also planned for the evening period at various hang-out and night spots around Linden.
The young man told Guyana Times Entertainment that he first recognised his talent while in secondary school. He explained that at the time he was singing to himself when a few classmates overheard him and then asked him to sing for them. Much to his surprise, he explained, they liked his voice and encouraged him to pursue the option of being a singer.
However, he contends that he became more focused on music as he was heading into his teen years. “Everything was becoming
serious face as he dished out his jokes. At one time, persons thought that he was giving Kwasi a run for his money with his “tongue licking” vibes.
Immediately after coming off the stage, the crowd started to chant his name to return but there was more serious business which was interrupted by the heavy downpour.
This nevertheless did not stop the party animals from getting their grooves on as Slingerz Family Deejay Garwin heated up things with his excellent selection of music. The party continued until Swappi took to the stage.
Meanwhile, Stage 2 was deemed a huge success which saw thousands in attendance for the three-night affair and several high quality performances from local artistes including Vanilla, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson and others. The event also had an entire night set aside for comedy with some of the best in the business.
confusing and music was where I found peace” said the 18-year-old youngster. He added that he would not only listen to one genre but, rather, his choice of music would span several different genres.
The “goody too shoes” youngster, as he was thought of, explained that his mother who is a pastor played a pivotal role in his life, encouraging him to pursue his dreams. He noted too that he would always think to himself “Why can’t I make music like Avant or Genuine or Jason Derulo”?
Kirton also explained that he was never really into sports but would rather spend his time delving into the lines of a captivating book or playing video games.
He said also that he knows he has a long way to go before being fully developed as an artiste, but is very excited at the prospect of making his own music and inspiring persons like he would have been inspired by other artistes after listening to their music.
Recently he explained he had a glimpse of what that
would be like when his first track was released to rave reviews by the public, avid music connoisseurs and fellow musicians like himself. He said he just intends to have clean fun while inspiring people through his music. He related that he is working on his debut project with producer Drew Thoven. The EP (extended play) that they are working on is scheduled for release in the near future.
Through this EP, he explained, he will be able to give Guyana a taste of what he has to offer.
Guyanese renowned fashion icon, Michelle Cole was the recipient of the Fashion Designer of the Year award when the Young, Gifted and Black (YGB) Awards was held on Sunday last in New York City.
The YGB Awards programme places emphasis on individuals that continue to reach levels of success through hard work and determination. There is no formal selection criterion to receive this award rather; there is a peer-topeer acknowledgement and appreciation of an individual’s drive for success, outlined by where the recipient has
come from in life to become an ambassador of the entrepreneurial spirit.
The YGB Awards, launched in honour of Black History Month, recognises talent, ambition and achievements toward the “continued pursuit of success.” The
programme honours African-American and Caribbean professionals who are the “unsung heroes” within their communities.
Michelle Cole is the owner of COLEFACTS, a company she started in 2000 while living in Guyana. Now residing in the United States, she continues her work, with a love for natural fabrics and hand-designed painted and decorated fabrics that are not only comfortable but fashionable.
She has successfully marketed her brand internationally, which led to her recognition as Caribbean Designer of the Year/ Best Country Designer for Guyana in 2008. Michelle’s designs have graced the stages of international fashion shows and pageants.
Michelle is also currently serving as the Pageant Director of the Miss World Guyana 2014 pageant, which is slated for May 26 in Guyana.
Newly crowned Road March Queen, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts is all excited about winning the title, thus dedicating it to her fans that she claimed made “Yada Yada” what is it today.
This is the fourth time Vanilla won the title. In 2007, she won with “Queen of the band” while in 2008 she was victorious with “High” and in 2010 she copped the title with “Rude”. She has taken over the title from Adrian Dutchin who won the title in 2013 with “Jook”.
In an interview with the Road March Queen, she said that the tune “Yada Yada” was written by B52, Burchmore Simon and herself. The song was recorded in the Kross Kolor Studio but the track was composed by the 758 Studio in St Lucia. The soca sensation, however, expressed her surprise that she won the title in front of Adrian Dutchin with his tune “Bend Over and Roll”. Roberts said that she was cognisant of the fact that Dutchin has done a lot of work in promoting his tune, but explained
that it all depends on the day of the parade.
On the day of Guyana’s 44th Republic Anniversary costume and float parade, she added that she was a part of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry band and was not paying much attention of which song was played the most until she was told some-
thing to the effect upon arriving at the National Park.
She said that after hearing that her song boomed through the speakers at every corner, she was not too keen since she thought that Adrian’s might have received similar attention. Nevertheless, she was first contacted by a radio show host who dissemi-
nated the good news and it was at that time, it registered to her.
The concept of the song, she added, was nothing in particular but thought about singing a song that made “no sense” since she tried everything else in the past. When asked if she was discouraged after she did not place at the Carib Soca Monarch, she explained that in life there are some things that are meant to happen at strategic junctures in life and from all indications, the time in her life is still in the making.
Vanilla said that rather than being discouraged, she was more disappointed, but that did not stop her from staying focused. She claimed that she had a blast at the finale of the monarch and enjoyed herself to the maximum.
She, however, hopes to record new songs and will continue to perform to the satisfaction of her audience. The “Yada Yada” rhythm is referred to as the “Fearless Rhythm”. The rhythm was later released in the Caribbean and is being played on local airwaves.
Look out for Vanilla’s remix of “Yada Yada” soon
Pharrel Williams – “Happy”
“Happy” moves to number one this week, dethroning Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” just after spending eight weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Originally released last summer on the “Despicable Me 2” soundtrack, “Happy” got a post-“Blurred Lines” and “Get Lucky” boost late last year, thanks to a viral music video and Academy Award nomination. Contagiously peppy and brilliantly simple, it seems likely to dominate radio for weeks to come.
Katy Perry featuring Juicy J – “Dark Horse” Katy Perry is dethroned by Pharell Williams as he takes the coveted number one spot on Billboad Hot 100 this week. “Dark Horse” which is the second single off the pop singer’s third album, combines the genres of pop and trap music, creating what has been described as a “Southern rap-techno mash-up.” The track features a minimal production, with Perry’s vocals being sung in a “seductive” and “mature” tone, while Juicy J is featured on the song’s intro and rapped-bridge. Perry, in interviews, said she wanted the song to have a “witchy, spell-y kind of black magic-y idea”, so she wrote it from the perspective of a witch warning a man not to fall in love with her because if he does, she will be his last.
Jason Derulo featuring 2 Chainz – “Talk Dirty” This week Jason Derulo, retains his number three spot on the Billboard Hot 100 as one of the two non-movers on the list. “Been around the world, don’t speak the language, but your booty don’t need explaining,” the smooth mover flirts over shoulder-popping claps, before he steps into a twerk-friendly chorus with an insanely catchy brass riff. The final result is by no means shaking up the musical landscape, but as we’ve learned time and time again, Jason Derulo has a knack for climbing those singles charts.
John Legend – “All of Me” John Legend jumps six places this week on the charts with his powerful ballad. The track which comes from his fourth studio album Love In The Future was released in June 2013. Legend premiered “All of Me” during a performance on Oprah Winfrey’s Oprah’s Next Chapter. Then on August 6, 2013, the full song was premiered as it was released to iTunes along with the pre-order for Love in the Future. “All of Me” impacted American mainstream urban radio as the third single from Love in the Future on August 12 last.
Beyonce´ featuring Jay Z – “Drunk in Love” Beyonce’s duet with her hubby retains its number five position, being the second of two non-movers with its tenth week on the Billboard Hot 100. Musically, “Drunk in Love” is dominated by trap beats in chunks and bass. Its lyrics depict female sexuality as Beyoncé adopts sensual and confident vocals. Jay-Z raps a verse on the song. Contemporary music critics wrote generally positive reviews for “Drunk in Love”, many of whom called it a follow-up to Beyoncé’s and Jay-Z’s 2003 song “Crazy in Love”. They also commended its appeal to urban radio and Beyoncé’s as well as Jay-Z’s vocals.
Bastille – “Pompeii”
This week see’s Bastille rising two places from its position last week on Billboard Hot 100. “Pompeii” is a track by British rock band Bastille. It is their fourth single from their debut studio album Bad Blood. Originally written by Kevin La Susa over years ago, the track was released as a digital download in February 2013. Lyrically, the song is about the Roman town of the same name, which met a damning fate with the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It was nominated for British Single of the Year at the 2014 BRIT Awards.
Lorde – “Team”
Also rising two places this week is “Team” from Lorde. The song was released on September 13, 2013 as the album's third single in Australia and New Zealand by Universal Music New Zealand, and the second in the United States by Lava and Republic Records. The track was written by Lorde and Joel Little and produced by Little, with additional production from Lorde herself. "Team" is a hybrid of pop, rock, EDM and electro hop featuring synthesiser, bass and snare drum instrumentation over a handclap-based beat. Lyrically, the track is a "tribute to her friends and country.
A Great Big World featuring Christina Aguilera – “Say Something”
This teary break up ballad falls four places this week on the Billboard Hot 100. “Say Something” did not sell extensively until the re-recorded edition was available. It debuted at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart after A Great Big World and Aguilera performed the song on The Voice, while eventually peaking at number four. It features the trio singing as people “act out the heartbreaking lyrics.”
One Republic – “Counting Stars” Dropping three places this week on the Hot 100 “Counting Stars” holds its place in the top 10. "Counting Stars" is the first track off One Republic's album Native. Written by Ryan Tedder, the band's frontman and songwriter for other pop stars, he was quoted as saying "I felt a responsibility to actually write and sing about things that have a level of human gravity to them" when it comes to the song's lyrics.
Pitbull featuring Ke$ha – “Timber” This week Timber drop three barely beating out Passenger’s “Let Her Go”. "Timber" is highlighted by the screeching harmonica hook and the line "It's going down, I'm yelling timber" within Ke$ha's earnestly delivered chorus, but the single also features some of Pitbull's most off-the-wall boasts about his jet-setting lifestyle and suave persona. "I have 'em like Miley Cyrus, clothes off/Twerkin' in their bras and thongs!" he raps, while later declaring, "We about to clown. Why?/'Cause it's about to go down!"
E-Networks is launching a new reality television series “Emerging Voices” in an effort to unearth good voices, fresh talent and energetic young performers who will give a boost to Guyana’s budding music industry.
The contest will focus on Hindi and Bollywood music with an English edition to follow later in the year. The company will be conducting a search for talented singers between the ages of 16 and 40 years to participate in the auditions for a spot as a contestant in the series.
Twenty persons will be selected from the auditions to participate in the series which is expected to run over several months. If selected, entrants will be trained and will compete for the opportunity to become the E-Networks Emerging Voice of 2014.
There is over $1 million in prizes to be won. In addition to the overall winner, prizes will be awarded to the best performers on each show. The winner and other outstanding participants will have the opportunity to perform at prestigious events and enter into various promotional and creative agreements and appearances.
E-Networks is pleased to announce that Bollywood playback singer Jeffrey Iqbal and Guyanese-born outstanding singer Purnash Durgaparsad will mentor the singing talents throughout the season.
Zee TV’s popular historical love saga Jodha Akbar, which is gaining humongous response from viewers, is facing a big problem as the producer of the show Ekta Kapoor has decided to back out as a producer.
The show which garnered a lot of popularity even topped the TRP charts
Both of these exceptional artistes were finalists in ZEETV’s U.S.A. Saregamapa series with Jeffrey going onto to be part of the Indian round. The company sees this as a unique opportunity for Guyanese
singers to access excellent training and exposure.
Purnash is currently an instructor at the Suresh Wadkar Academy of Music, U.S.A. and is pursuing his Performing Arts Degree in Music Education. He also composes and produces music. Purnash has performed extensively and had the honour of opening for Sonu Nigam’s Concert in New Jersey in 2012 and Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Concert in Guyana. Jeffrey Iqbal is no stranger to Guyana. Indeed, he developed an immense fan following in Guyana on account of his performances at the Shreya
Ghoshal concert and a series of Diwali events October/November 2013. Jeffrey’s career on the world stage began when he was chosen in a talent search by the legendary music director AR Rehman from among thousands of applicants to perform at Rehman’s mega concert in New York.
Thereafter, Jeffrey entered ZEETV’s U.S. Saregamapa, emerging as the first runner up. Jeffrey recently entered the Bollywood music industry and is enjoying success. In 2012, he was invited to tour with Bollywood’s current playback Queen Shreya Ghoshal and he performed in Canada, U.S.A., UK and the Caribbean.
A studio has been specially designed and constructed for the filming of the series and members of the public will have the opportunity to be part of the studio audience.
Auditions to be part of the show commence on March 4 at the Embassy Club, Kitty, Georgetown at 17:30h; March 5 at E-Networks Office – West Coast Demerara at 17:30h; March 6 at Shieldstown, West Berbice at 17:30h; March 9 at Upper Corentyne at 14:00h; E-Networks’ office located in Port Mourant, Corentyne at 17:00h and in Essequibo at 14:00h. It is E-Networks’ aim to unearth Guyanese singers who not only have mastery over the musical notes but who also can perform and keep people entertained. For more information or to register for auditions, persons can call 6231143…
and the performance of the hit Jodi Jodha (Paridhi Sharma) and Akbar (Rajat Tokas) was very well appreciated and is still liked by viewers.
According to a source, “Ekta has decided to quit producing the show and will no longer be associated to the show.”
Jodha Akbar has not
Tbeen able to heave a sigh of relief as the show has been continuously involved in some or the other controversy. Initially, the Rajput community protested and burnt Ekta Kapoor’s effigies for disrespecting their community and later the controversy of Rajat Tokas’ rude behaviour and his attitude problem seemed to have
been hauled by the media. Well, it seemed as though the dust had settled for some time now as the show had topped the TRP chart, but this issue aroused leaving the team and the entire unit of the show in a fix. However, the channel sources claim that the news is untrue. (India-forums)
would never have the same effects that her soft tender hands would have, he looks at her naughtily (desi.tashan)
Naren comes to Ankita’s house and gives money to Soham for paying the debts. He says, “I want to talk to you alone.” (desi.tashan)
Sawari is dancing a ghagara song from yeh jawani, babuji dancing and saket and bhavna dancing on tune mari entry while Arpita’s cousins are planning to do everything to spoil Avni’s dance (desi.tashan)
Awhite car knocks down a person on a bicycle. A police constable (who is Nathulal in disguise) comes and slaps the car driver. Gunjan is passing by in an auto and she gets out to find out what is happening. Vidhi comes there dressed as a police inspector. She and Nathulal exchange glances. Gunjan is shocked as she recognises the two of them disguised as cops (India-forums)
his is not the first time that the media has fabricated stories and sensationalised them out of proportion, to grab eyeballs. Arjun Rampal has always been the object of scrutiny, with false and baseless news being published every now and then, from articles about going bankrupt to winning a race on steroids. The press has got it wrong, yet again. The latest story published in a leading entertainment supplement, states that Arjun is upset with Ranbir Kapoor about his role in the upcoming film ‘Roy’. In spite of the director of the film, ‘Roy’ clearly stating that there isn’t any such problem brewing, the media has been irresponsibly spreading the baseless news. In his quote, director Vicky Singh said, “Arjun has
been working on the script of ‘Roy’ with me for months now.
As it happens with every rewrite, everyone’s roles associated with the film have been enhanced. My actors and my team are extremely excited with what we have on paper right now and can’t wait to start filming next month. Also to clarify, Arjun is super excited with his part and the entire film… has never been a selfish actor and is tirelessly working to ensure we make the best film possible.”
Even after repeated clarifications, the media seems to pointlessly target individuals, and malign their image. The fact that this year is dedicated to elections, and the entertainment news is not going to be the focus, this certainly seems to be a very frantic attempt to sensationalise whatever the media can. (India-forums)
Bollywood actors Sonakshi Sinha and Imran Khan have lent their voices for the dubbed Hindi version of “Rio 2”, the sequel to 2011’s hit animation flick “Rio”.
Sonakshi and Imran will feature as macaws Jewel and Blu. The characters in the English version were voiced by Anne Hathaway and Jesse Eisenberg.
“I love watching animation films, so when they approached me to lend my voice to the sequel of one of the most loved animations –‘Rio’, I didn’t have to think
twice. It’s a completely new experience for me and I’m very excited. It’s a treat not only for the kids, but families as well,” Sonakshi said in a statement.
The movie is an adventure comedy set in the Brazilian city of Rio De Janeiro. The movie will feature the return of Blu, Jewel and their three children who leave their domesticated life for a journey to the Amazon rainforest.
“Rio 2” in 3D, releases in India on April 11 in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telegu. (India-forums)
Jeffrey
Purnash
Sonakshi Sinha and Imran Khan
his young, vibrant designer is our person of interest this week.
“Angel”, as the young designer is popularly referred to by her friends was featured in the Guyana Fashion Week 2013. The 21-year-old explains that she first embarked on the conduit of designing through the Facts and Roses competition, organised by the then designer couple powerhouse of Michelle Cole and the late Trevor Rose. She said she was encouraged by her friends in secondary school. The for-
Last Saturday, the National Park Arena exploded when comedian song writer, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson was crowned Carib Soca Monarch 2014, dethroning two-time monarch, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo.
Performing his tune “In the Game” with a little poetry and rapping, was enough for him to get the nod of the judges as the best performer for the evening. Some described it as a tongue licking performance while some thought that soca music lost its identity, but to him, he did his best and had accomplished his mission.
Coming into competition night, Edmondson told Guyana Times Entertainment that Jumo Primo was the man to beat and thought that he had to strategise a plan to achieve what he had set out to accomplish.
mer St Stanilaus College student explained that after her friends had seen her designs, they were adamant that she take part in the competition.
She went on to explain that while in the competition, her designs were a big hit and she made it to the finals before she was eliminated.
According to Ms Wong, her passion for designing did not diminish but in fact grew stronger. She explained that she later jumped at the option to take part in Guyana Fashion Week 2013.
It was in that competition that she copped the Courts/Fly Jamaica Prize for Aspiring Young Designer
The reigning Carib Soca Monarch said that he made Primo’s performances a study by looking at the way he uses his feet, his stage presence, his energy and other elements and thought that once he could put all those in place on competition night, he would be victorious.
He reviewed a number of tapes and felt he would have taken in as much as possible thus bringing his A game on Saturday last. “Jumo is a champion… can’t run from that”, he said.
she described as “chic vibrant” designs.
Presently, the young woman said that her focus is principally on designing and she has a swimwear line scheduled for release this year.
Guyana Times Entertainment predicts that the line will be dropped sometime before the summer. Answering questions about her plans for the future, Wong said that she is taking one step at a time. She added that she is aiming to develop herself as a person and then as a designer and subsequently
and Shelly G who are all great performers but he stuck to his plan and was successful. Last year, Ace entered the competition with “Same thing” and would, but this year during his performance, he sent a clear signal to the judges that he was there to take the crown and not come in second.
He also noted that coming into competition night, he had his eyes on Lil Red, Bones Man
He said that the poetic verses in the song were on the spot, a skill that he has developed while participating in poetry and theatrical presentations at the National Cultural Centre.
Many thought that “Ace” left comedy to become a soca singer, but the king explained
that he was involved in music way before he got into comedy. He has been a fan of soca music from a very young age and always thought that one day he would make it to the top.
However, now that he has won the title, he feels that it will be his first and last since he intends to pull out of the competition in 2015, leaving space for emerging soca artistes as himself to become successful.
He added that despite him bombarding Primo on stage, they are very good friends, thus he will encourage him to also stay away from the competition to give others a chance.
Ace will be representing Guyana in Trinidad and Tobago for the International Soca Competition and he is sure he will do Guyana proud.
It has been nine years since being crowned Miss World Guyana, but the beautiful Jasmine Herzog would do it all over again if given another chance.
In an interview with Guyana Times Entertainment, the 2005 Pageant Winner stated that she would willingly participate in another local pageant and admitted that she wished she knew then what she knows now.
After her reign ended, Jasmine migrated to Canada and completed her studies in veterinary technology. She held a previous position at the Veterinary Emergency Hospital in Canada and now works in research at one of the best hospitals there. Jasmine can be said to be living her dream, as, since she was a child, her fascination with animals led to her always wanting to be a veterinarian. In her spare time, the Annandale born beauty still models but stated that her first priority is her career.
Regarding the local pageant scene, she admitted that her busy lifestyle has not allowed for her to be up to date with pageantry in Guyana but stated that she is aware of improvements in the industry. “I am very proud that our girls are getting the opportunity to be better prepared to compete. There is so much that people don’t realise happens on the international stage and that proper preparation gives us a better opportunity to be noticed,” she said.
Looking back at the lessons she learned during her stint as Miss World Guyana, Jasmine advises that aspiring pageant participants remain confident and focused. “Stay true to who you are and put your best face forward at all times. This is no place to be shy, but a quiet confidence goes a very long way,” she said. Jasmine added that being articulate is another important trait a queen must have and stated that contestants should seek to be trained as much as possible in this area, as one can never have enough practice.
As she reminisced on her reign, Jasmine admits that the memories are abundant but said that her time spent representing her country at the International Miss World Pageant in China definitely falls among the most memorable. She revealed that during that trip she was also given the opportunity to work with children in orphanages, and this too helped to make the trip unforgettable.
Jasmine stated that she is still in contact with a few of her pageant mates including Renee Chester and Asha Peters. She stated that she and Peters are close friends and regularly correspond with each other.