Kite flying at Number 63 Beach
Rupununi Rodeo to from
Thousands of Guyanese and visitors will flock the Number 63 Beach at Corentyne, Berbice on Monday, April 21 for the traditional Easter celebrations and kite flying competition.
This year, the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry is encouraging more beach goers and kite enthusiasts to come out and participate in the competition and enter to win the many prizes up for grabs. Prizes will be given for the largest, smallest and most unusual kite among other categories.
Additionally, the Ministry is using this opportunity to remind all who are flying their kites this Easter, to do so in a safe, open area, away from utility poles and live wires.
For many families, the annual activity is highly anticipated and the Easter Holiday would be incomplete without a trip to the Number 63 Beach for heaping helpings of relaxation, sun, food, and family togetherness for everyone.
While much has been done to improve the facilities at the beach, beach-goers are being urged to use the facilities responsibly and to dispose of their garbage in the bags and receptacles provided.
This annual activity would not be possible without the kind support of the many sponsors, including Little Rock Suites, Beepat’s, the Berbice Chambers of Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), who all join together to ensure that participants of the kite flying competition are recognised and rewarded for their efforts and creativity.
Persons desirous of entering the kite flying competition can uplift their registrations forms at the Tourism Tent, close to Pavilion Two or at the beach entrance toll booth on Easter Monday.
The Easter activity at the beach is an integral part of the promotion of domestic tourism and allows for the showcasing of Guyanese Easter traditions.
The Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority are encouraging everyone to join in the exciting and exhilarating stream of activities planned for Easter 2014, whether participating in traditional kite flying activities in the National Park, at the Number 63 Beach or along the sea wall or travelling to witness the hair-raising Easter Rodeo in Lethem, or taking the trip of a lifetime on the world-renowned Pakaraima Safari, all are assured of having a grand time during the upcoming holidays.
“Somepeople are dreamers and others are doers and I’d like to think that I’m a doer who is on my way to greatness despite my past misfortunes and unfortunate childhood.” So says U.S.-based Guyanese boxer/singer Simeon “Candyman” Hardy.
After making his name in Guyana as the “Chin-checker” as he is known in the local boxing fraternity, he migrated just over a year ago to the United States of America in pursuit of his dream of becoming more than just a world-rated Guyanese boxer but a world champion and singer.
Now at age 26, he says, “The dream is becoming a reality.” On the boxing front, the middleweight, who has fought 11 fights, of which eight were knockouts, is on a card slated for June 14 representing Brooklyn. The night’s headline fight, under the Barclays Centre and Banner Promotions, will feature the WBO Jr welterweight title champion Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov of Beryozovo, Russia and Chris Algieri of Huntington, Long Island. The fight will be televised live on HBO in the Boxing after Dark series.
In preparation for the under-card fight, Hardy has been working hard, training and sparring with some of the best.
At the time of this interview, he had
recently completed interviews for HBO’s Boxing after Dark series.
“I was introduced to the world officially via media as a prelude to Friday’s night, I have a fight at the Turning Stone Casino.”
Relating his story, the father of one who hails from South Sophia says, “It’s an
Guyanese Poet Gideon Cecil’s new poetry collection “The Revelation of Love” is a profound soul-searching collection of classic romantic poetry filled with imagery and philosophy about life. These are stories in poetic metaphors that depict lessons of life in a variety of genres.
The poems of “The Revelation of Love” encompass a wide range of subjects: romance, philosophy, religion, metaphysics, and, running like a bright thread through the weave of this collection, love. The diversity of this collection offers universal appeal, and the tapestry of complex imagery and symbolism will inspire poetry lovers.
This is no slim, delicate volume of po-
ems, at 384 deftly-constructed pages. “The Revelation of Love” takes the reader on an odyssey of love, a spiritual journey like a Dante travelling with his muse into a new Inferno in search of paradise and divine bliss – from the classical Homeric tradition into the contemporary genres of poetry. Very few collections of poetry can reach such diverse audience with such power and panache, a release from the poet’s publicist said.
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or from barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.
Cecil is from Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice, Guyana. He holds BA and MA degrees in theology, along with a degree in
overwhelming feeling… I’ve heard people speak of having butterflies but I think I had eagles in my stomach today.”
King of the world
“One year ago, I was just dreaming of being in the position I’m in and by making
this possible with all the prayers and blessing I’m having, I’m on the quest for greatness, I don’t just want to make it.” He has actually proclaimed himself? the best in the world?, the King.
“I’m not conceited, it’s just how I feel about myself and aside from all the nice words I’ve heard I’ve learned that your best motivator, aside from God, I motivate myself.”
Hardy, who also called himself a businessman, said: “Conceive, believe, sacrifice and pray plus put in the work with a goal and the things you receive are the payoff for the things you give up.”
Hardy is also keeping true to that motto in his efforts to make waves in the singing world. He is constantly in the studio under the DP Records label, working on his album. He is due to go on tour with Jon Connor, who is signed to the Aftermath music label.
Hardy recently completed a collaboration with hip hop artiste Mokablast and Jon Connor this month and the shoot for the accompanying video is ongoing. The song will be officially released soon and from what I’ve heard, there’s much more happening as it relates to Hardy and his music career, as he has several videos set for release.
Guyana’s premium music ambassadors “First Born” who have been dormant for a while are now back with a bang, according to their management team Vizion Sound Records.
Formerly, a five-member group that invaded the music scene several years ago, the group has now been reduced to three sizzling members in the persons of Rawlston Richmond, Troy Azore and Trayon Garette, who have been creating quite a stir since they joined forces recently with Vizion Sound Records.
With a pulsating new release, “Good Today” already on the charts, these ‘conscious youths’ are also expected to release a 15-track album in the near future. Always keeping things at the highest standards, these musicians continue to grow in status. To date they have already produced three new singles, and of course a new music video, ‘’Fell Asleep” with local song diva Celeste David.
Just last month, their performance was the best at the DJ Face Birth Night celebration, and now they are carded for spectacular performances at the upcoming Linden Town Week festivities.
They also performed
at the recently-concluded football tournament between Jamaica’s Boystown Football team and the local Guyanese football elite.
The “First Born” group continues, as is customary, to reach out to their many fans, always serving up positivity and prosperity through their music. The group is poised to unleash a musical inferno again and fans are asked to be prepared for its intensity. The members continue to uphold their motto “Forever teaching souls, teaching brotherhood, obedience, and righteousness, naturally...”, as they focus on taking Guyanese music to the next level.
The ladies will be swooning and the vibes will be rocking as Grammy Award-winning artiste Sean Paul and the Crown Prince of Reggae, Jah Cure team up this Easter Sunday to create an unforgettable night of reggae and dancehall music.
Those who won’t be “longing for their baby to love them more”, will be begging “just gimme the light” at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence when the superstars, two of the most loved artistes out of Jamaica, heat up the stage at the annual Easter Fest, put on by Mc Neal’s Enterprise and Hits and Jams Entertainment.
Sean Paul Ryan Francis Heriques, otherwise known as Sean Paul or “Dutty Paul”, is one of that rare breed, a crossover artiste equally at home in the musical styles of reggae and dancehall, which he frequently switches up during his live performances. The artiste recently released his sixth studio album “Full Frequency”.
The other half of this sizzling pairing, Jah Cure or Lyah Cure, born Siccature Alcock, is no stranger to Guyana, having
performed several times on these shores, with the most recent being Easter weekend 2013 in Bartica and Buxton. He is popular for his soulful tracks such as “Unconditional Love”, “Never Find”, “Call On Me”, “Longing For”, and “True Reflections”. Jah Cure has proven time after time that he is indeed a master of reggae love songs, and he continues to mesmerise us with his unique voice and lyrical ability. Jah Cure, too, has released his sixth studio album, “World Cry”, in digital format in December 2012 and physically In January 2013.
making headway
“Keep Your Day Job” (KYDJ) is a punk rock band that was formed in 2010 by Cliff Garaway and Ryan Roberts who met while attending Marian Academy.
The duo shared a passion for music, but neither of them played any instruments. They both then acquired guitars which they learnt to play by watching videos on the Internet. They then decided to start the
performed at the Sidewalk Café for a “Walter Rodney Memorial Show”.
The band also experimented with recording demos of their original songs. In 2012, Garaway migrated to Canada to pursue his studies and the band had its final performance as a trio at Marian Academy.
The two remaining members persevered with their rock band dreams and held a live rock show at Sidewalk
local audience is also growing with gigs at Pulse Entertainment’s “Prom Night”, Vintage Wine Bar’s “After Lunch Acoustic” and at Club Next, the Umana Yana, Theatre Guild, National Cultural Centre, Georgetown Club, and Princess Casino.
On September 8, 2012, KYDJ was invited to play in Suriname at an event called “Unkies Rock the Guianas”, which featured two bands
rock fans in Suriname.
TThe headliners will be supported by Chutney Singer KI and the JMC 3Veni Band from Trinidad, who are always welcome in Guyana. This group, which is popularly known for the catchy “Friends for the Night” and “Single Forever”, along with local entertainers, will be opening for the main acts.
Regular admission tickets to the event cost $3000, but these can be picked up at various locations at a reduced price tomorrow. The VIP tickets cost $15,000 and again, these can be bought at specially reduced prices on Saturday.
he stage is set and so are the actors for the hosting of the brand new play “Shattered Dreamz” billed for the National Cultural Centre this Saturday and Sunday.
The play was written by Sheron CadoganTaylor, Director/Producer of HAP, who recently copped the Best Director Award at the conclusion of the National Drama Festival 2013.
She has, however, entrusted the direction of this play to Mariatha Causway aka Jennifer Thomas, Artistic Director of HAP.
“Shattered Dreamz” depicts the life of a young aspiring lawyer (played by Sean Thompson) who was led astray by someone he trusted (played by Johann David) much to the disappointment and disillusionment of his family.
The revelation totally crushes his mother (played by Nuriyyih Gerrard), but it was because of her naivety that her son was able to lead a double life.
Even when his father (played by Rene Chester) noticed the changes in his son’s behaviour and became very vocal about it, she refused to believe that her baby boy could be involved in anything that was bad.
of Guyana, the duo met Gavin Mendonca, who became the third member of the group. Gavin, like Cliff Garaway and Ryan Roberts, taught himself to play the guitar. The trio then landed their first gig playing at a movie night held by Queen’s College students.
Throughout 2010, KYDJ wrote a number of songs including “Hope”, “Ocean Air”, and “Sorrow”. They also started performing at Marian Academy during the lunch hour, at UG, at house parties and they even
excellent reviews.
Feeding the flames
After the success of the first show at Sidewalk, the two bands along with a third, “Feed the Flames”, decided to host a collaborative event, “April Mania” at the Sidewalk Café. This show attracted an even larger crowd than the first one.
KYDJ is now becoming known beyond these shores, performing in Trinidad at the “Local Palooza 2013” – a show featuring 11 of Trinidad’s best bands. Its
The show highlights how very easy it is for parents to become wrapped up in loving and spoiling their children and hence oblivious to behavioural patterns that send clear signals that their children might be heading down a wrong path. Some parents even become enablers in their naivety.
This spells bitter consequences, not only for the children, but for the parents, who would have had high hopes and dreams for their offspring.
The play underscores the need for parents to be united in their approach to discipline, since rebellious children pounce upon any hint of division and use it to their advantage.
Other members of the cast include Mark Luke-Edwards, the Best Actor awardee; Leon Cummings; Clement Stanford; Max Massiah; Jennifer Langevine; Nelon Benjamin; Abigail Brower; Kim Fernandes; and Gregory Eastman.
Despite the serious messages, the producers promise two evenings of entertainment for the entire family. Tickets cost only $1500 and are available at the National Cultural Centre and from members of the production.
The band is currently working on recording more than 20 original songs which they hope to complete by mid-year.
Although the band has faced many challenges over the years, the members are proud of all their accomplishments and look forward to future endeavours. The band encourages potential musicians to follow their dreams at all costs, for as its motto says “Music is our lives, and we will live our lives to the fullest”.
Sean Paul
Jah Cure
The “Supa Stylistics” Promotion Group will be hosting the 23rd Annual Mother and Daughter Pageant on Saturday, May 10 at the National Cultural Centre.
The Mother and Daughter Pageant is one of Guyana’s oldest and most prestigious beauty and talent events and brings together mothers and their daughters on one stage to showcase their sense of style and the special bond they share. This year’s event will feature 22 mother and daughter couples.
E-Networks will on Friday, April 25 launch its new reality television series “Emerging Voices”.
A Bollywood singing competition, “Emerging Voices”, the brainchild of E-Networks’ founder and chief executive Vishok Persaud, sets out to find fresh talent from every corner of Guyana. Its aim –
providing free tutelage to the contestants.
Musical accompaniment is provided by the E-Networks Orchestra which comprises musicians from India and Guyana.
A million-dollar cash prize and other special prizes are guaranteed for the winner of the show.
The second-place competitor wins $250,000,
to provide the contestants with a platform to showcase their singing abilities and give them the opportunity to be trained, seen, and heard.
More than 100 hopefuls from Berbice, Georgetown, and Essequibo auditioned for the competition. The judges had a difficult task narrowing that number down to 22 talented singers, proving that there are many talented individuals in Guyana with a passion and flair for Indian music.
With celebrity judges, singers Jeffrey Iqbal and Purnash Durgaparsad and Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha President Dr Vindhya Persaud, at the helm of the “Emerging Voices” ship, the competition is proving to be a fierce one.
One of the unique features of “Emerging Voices” is that Iqbal and Durgaparsad, both professionally trained artistes, have been
while the third-place contestant will get $150,000. Additionally, any performer who makes it to the Top 10 has a chance of winning the “Best Performer Prize” of the week.
The 12-week competition premieres on E-Networks Channel 1 in Georgetown and in Berbice, with a new episode airing every Friday “Emerging Voices” will also be shown on Channels 65, 69, and 102. Additionally, DTV8 and Little Rock TV Station will broadcast the show in Berbice, and Pinnacle Commutations will air the competition in Essequibo.
Twenty-two competitors… one Emerging Voice…who will win E-Networks’ first reality singing competition?
It is being held under the theme “Love that glitters is gold”. Training has already started with the mother-and-daughter teams who have entered this year’s event. The show will feature a number of local artistes and entertainers as well as the creative work and designs of local designers.
The competition will be divided into three categories: junior, which caters for girls four to eight years old and their mothers; the middle category, which caters
The 2013 winners
for girls aged nine to 14 and their mothers; and the senior category, which caters for those daughters 15 years
wo contestants were booted on Wednesday last and a further two are expected to be sent home come Saturday evening when the Banks Premium Beer Karaoke Competition continues at Harmony Night Club, New Amsterdam, Berbice.
The one-month competition started with 25 contestants on March 26, but that number is now down to 11.
One of the big surprises on Wednesday last was the elimination of Dennis who had been one of the better contestants when he attempted to sing “Sweet Caroline” as his second song for the night. It was by far his worst performance in the competition.
Many were surprised when it was announced that he will be leaving the competition, with a portion of the audience not taking the decision too nicely.
The other contestant that was booted is “Miss Kim” who also gave her worst performance of the competition and also the worst performance of the night when she sang “Kiss And Say Good Bye” in a costume which had written on it “Good bye”, “adios” and “ciao”’. She missed many keys in the song.
The evening belonged to Shevon Castello, who is now one of the strongest contestants, with two more
and older and their mothers.
For more information, Contact Mrs Ingrid Fung or Dr Sulan Fung, the
mother-and-daughter team that started it all, on telephone numbers 226-2825 or 626-0460.
performances before the final.
On Wednesday, some of the other contestants struggled to maintain the level of performance they had brought to the competition during the first three weeks.
Among them were Janay, Diamond, and George Cush. The latter two having to perform songs they tried for the first time, Diamond doing the countrywestern “Ride Boy” while Cush sang for the first time, “Sweet Caroline”. Janay sang Whitney Houston’s “I Want To Dance With Somebody” in the wrong key.
Many of the competitors performed the songs that they are best at early in the competition, now forcing some of them to try new songs.
Byron Forde also struggled as he delivered two songs, which he did not perform with the confidence and authority of his past renditions. Julius Caesar continued his breathtaking performances and closed the evening with “Don’t Forget To Remember”.
Stunning performances also came from Desiree when she performed Celine Deon’s “My Heart Will Go On” and Carla who
performed “Is It Love?”. More excitement is expected on Saturday when the contestants perform duets and another song after which two others will be eliminated.
of the Mother and Daughter Pageant
Top 10 Guyana Times Entertainment
After spending two weeks in the top spot of Guyana Times Entertainment Top 10 “All of Me” by John Legend is dethroned this week by American Authors’ “Best Day of My Life”. Legend, however, does not fall far down the chart as “All of Me” is all over the number two spot.
Although, there were no new entries in the Top 10 this week, there was a lot of shifting going on, with “Hit The Road” from Jumo Primo hanging on for dear life at number 10. Will it go up the chart next week or will we be seeing another track say goodbye to the Guyana Times Entertainment Top 10.
Remember, persons can vote up to 10 times per track and can text the name of their favourite track to 592-654-7804 or 592687-8893 to vote.
As of this week, the voting process will conclude on Wednesday at 15:00h, so make sure you get your votes in before that time.
American Authors – “Best Day Of My Life”
John Legend – “All Of Me”
Keyshia
Sam Smith – “Stay With Me”
of twins.
This extremely talented and intelligent 19-year-old has been recognised as an ambassador, mentor, youth coordinator, and Youth Parliamentarian for the East London borough of Hackney where he was born.
Jermain started singing at a young age; by the age of 11, he had won his school’s singing competition and was performing in public. By the age of 16, Jermain was performing at various top venues in London, and raising funds for various charities.
He is a favourite of the Association of Guyanese Nurses and Allied Professionals
(AGNAP) in the UK (his grandmother, Georgina Sultan is an active member), performing at most of their fundraisers.
The young humanitarian was awarded the National Citizen’s Prestigious Award by UK’s Prime Minister, David Cameron for his campaign for the homeless, and his advocacy against unemployment and crime in the community. The multifaceted Jermain is also gifted academically – a perennial A student. Although music is his first love, academic and political achievement are very much part of his goals. Before his audition for “The Voice” UK edition, Jermain was a student at
Sir George Monoux College studying law, music, business and citizenship, and was offered a place at Berklee College of Music in Boston, U.S.A. to further his studies.
“Singing Politician” Dubbed the “Singing Politician” by Sir Tom Jones, one of the coaches on “The Voice”, Jermain captivated the audience with his soulful baritone and old-school style, reminiscent of the masters of the genre with added flair. He was affectionately called “Granddad” as a result, and the audience loved the package. This was the theme throughout his performances, while he
showcased his range, running up and down the musical scale.
He won the “The Voice” UK by public vote on Saturday, April 5 covering Jennifer Hudson’s “Am I Telling You”. His rendition blew the minds of the coaches, the audience, and the general public who voted him the clear winner over the other contestants.
Among his wellwishers were the UK Prime Minister, Hackney’s Mayor, Eddy Grant, Cheryl Cole, Simon Cowell and other celebrities, fans from around the world and his many relatives and friends.
This is clearly a young man who is going places, as they say. And one of those places was
Palace, a few days prior to him winning the Voice, in the company of Will.i.am. He even met Prince Andrew. Meanwhile, for those of you wondering if Jermain has ever visited these shores, he came to Guyana in August 2013. The bishop of the Anglican Diocese, Cornell Moss, saw him performing at the AGNAP church service and invited him to sing at the ordination of four priests from Codrington College, Barbados at St George’s Cathedral on August 25, 2013 and on Sunday, September 1, 2013 at a confirmation service at St
Reflections Fashion Show
After a successful production in 2012, the Reflections fashion Show will return to the Theatre Guild, under the theme “A New Dawn”.
The show, which is organised by Nelsion Nurse, has grown in terms of designer participation and the storyline of the entire production this year. “Reflections” is scripted to showcase Euphoria, a dialogue with one’s spirit, telling of the journey through life’s challenges, trials and accomplishment as we reflect on our past, embrace our present, and celebrate the things to come in the future.
Patrons will witness the launch of Nurse’s new collection during this evening of fashion excellence. Supporting designers in the lineup are regional fashion reality television show “Mission Catwalk” participant and runner up at the 2012 Designer Portfolio Mwanza Glenn, Guyana Fashion Week 2013 Young Designer awardees Colwyn Abrams and Chenney Wong.
Other guest designers are Wynette Jones, Andrea Braithwaite, Roxanne King, Kim Gomes and jewellery designers Roger Evelyn and Deborah Matias. Joining the lineup is Nurse’s mentor, Sonia Noel, a Guyanese fashion icon and one of the Caribbean’s leading designers.
“Reflections” is more than a fashion show, it’s more of a fashion story. There is also a very rel-
evant connection between designing art and performing art, they co-exist to produce ‘style’.
The designer said: “This is where the Theatre Guild, where I am also a member, becomes paramount for facilitating this vision. Joining the models on stage will be Jackie
Hanover, Road March Queen Vanilla, Y3K, the National Dance Company, along with dances choreographed by Allison Glasgow and Colvin Andrews.”
Some of the more prominent models would be past winners of the Guyana Model Search, like Allana Phoenix, who will be joined by visiting models out of Suriname.
The production team will also be joining forces with the Blood Bank to facilitate a blood drive during the morning hours from 08:00h to 13:00h at the Theatre Guild.
Blood donors and potential blood donors are invited to support this venture
Tickets for the event are available at Sonia Noel Designs, Barr Street, Kitty and the Theatre Guild, Parade Street, Kingston. They cost $2500 for general admission, and $4000 for the VIP experience.
Buckingham
Augustine Church in Buxton.
Nelsion Nurse’s designs
ion industry.
Now, he is well on his way to being a Guyanese fashion ambassador internationally using pins, chains, furs, paint, cords and fabric galore to achieve his goals.
The Freeport-based Nelson, who hails originally from Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, is currently in Trinidad preparing for the Tobago Fashion Week scheduled for May.
This Charlestown Government Secondary School graduate has got his plate chock full of events to showcase his creativity. “I’m already booked up for numerous other shows such as the Red Runway Fashion Show in Trinidad, Virgin Islands Fashion Week, and the Antigua Fashion Week where I was the featured designer at the launch,” he said.
He is also booked to showcase his designs in Nevis at the Fashion Week and the list goes on, but while some may have their qualms about being a male designer in the Caribbean, Nelson is not the least bit bothered.
The business of fashion
This former Guyana Police Force rank, who graduated as Best Classroom Student on his course, said he has graduated from the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill) with a diploma in business management en route to starting his English Duck International (EDI) Designs Company in October of 2006. Nelson started out in fashion as a model in Barbados under contract with the Ebony Model Agency, strutting his stuff on many runways, including the Barbados Fashion Week’s. He has to his name competition titles such as Mr Ebony Barbados, and Face of Shabeau Barbados.
But, even as he was enjoying the limelight as a runway model, he wanted more hands-on experience, as there seemed to be a need for more creativity in what designers gave him to wear. This desire saw him officially launch EDI in 2007 at the Barbados Manufacturers Expo (BMEX) with the “Evolution” line. “The reviews were more than I anticipated for my artistic and creative work and so I went after and completed a Diploma in Fashion at the Barbados Community College.”
Since then, Nelson has not looked back. In fact,
his creations have found their way to stages at the Caribbean Fashion Week; Red Runway Fashion Show; Ester Barnes Fashion Show in Toronto, Canada; Guyana Fashion Week; Barbados Fashion Week; and Style Week Jamaica as well as in the Bahamas. Nelson has also taken his creations to Miami.
“When you think of futuristic, that’s what EDI Designs is all about,” says Nelson, whose creations are as diverse as they are limitless for the more fashion-forward men and women.
“I’ve designed for individuals who want to make a fashion statement as well as for pageants such as the Miss Guyana Talented Teen, Miss Freeport Bahamas and Point-a-Pierre, in Trinidad, among other names.”
In August 2011 in the twinisland republic, Nelson launched his all-male clothing line “Venom” to rave reviews and there aroused the challenge to create, design and produce carnival costumes. In 2012, he made the bold step to create for children and adults. Naturally, many of his creations copped top prizes such as band and Individual of the year.
“I’m doing fairly well, but I’m not where I need to be just yet, but I’m determined to make a name for myself as a Guyanese who really rocks not just runways but also make it into costumes for stars and movies,” he says.
Nelson is ever grateful to Caribbean fashion icon, Trinidadborn fashion guru and artistic director Richard Young whom he says has been a guiding force on his journey thus far. Young has signed on as Nelson’s EDI Designs clothing line and brand manager. Nelson can be contacted at www.facebook.com/pages/TyroneNelson-EDI-Designs.
Tyrone Nelson’s fashionforward designs
This awards event, slated to take place later this month in Florida, U.S., might be in jeopardy.
Travel agent Akarsh Kolaprath, who runs a Florida-based enterprise, has filed a lawsuit against Wizcraft, the organisers of the 15th International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA awards), for alleged breach of trust.
Kolaprath claims that about three years ago, he struck a deal with Andre Timmins and Viraf Sarkari of Wizcraft through his family company, 7M tours. As part of the deal, he was apparently asked to help them out with coordination of finances and taking the award ceremony to the United States this year.
Kolaprath claims to have spent the last three years and around US$265,000 on consulting and making travel arrangements for the organisation. In return, Wizcraft apparently promised him three per cent of the entire profit.
Kolaprath says that he even managed hotel bookings for the event, which is going to be held from April 24 to 27. It seems that the event organisers have
abruptly changed their mind and decided to do their own bookings and arrangements thereby cancelling his services. Kolaprath has now sued Wizcraft for US$7 million for leaving him in the lurch without giving him ad-
hotel cancellation fees due to change of dates.
Talking to Hitlist from Florida, Kolaprath said, “This has affected us very badly; we have been working on the whole thing. I was the one who introduced them
equate reasons. His claims are: 1. Wizcraft/IIFA promised to pay him three per cent of the anticipated US$17.5 million in revenue that the organisation expected to earn from hosting the awards. 2. Wizcraft/IIFA further promised to pay him all revenues earned in excess of US$17.5 million. 3. His company, 7M tours, reported a loss of more than US$400,000 in
It’s Official
Csort of confirmed his relationship status with Anushka Sharma. Shah Rukh Khan, who was the star attraction, made him indirectly confess his love Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone were the star attraction at a dinner party that was hosted
at the Emirates Palace to mark the opening ceremony of the seventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
It seems that the actor was at his wittiest best at this do and he even made Virat indirectly confess about his love. A source says, `Shah Rukh and Deepika walked the red car-
S(Wizcraft) to the sponsors. But suddenly after we had done all the arrangements, we got to know that they were dealing directly with the sponsors and wanted me out of the picture. Their intention is not right.”
He has now asked for a stay on the event till this issue is cleared. “They have been trying to reach some kind of settlement but I will go ahead with my case,”
Kolaprath said. When contacted, Sabbas Joseph, director of Wizcraft and IIFA, sent a statement on behalf of his company. The statement read, “The claims made by Akarsh/&7M tours are false and frivolous. It is a concocted story lacking any substance. Since the matter is sub judice, we shall respond to these claims appropriately before the court.”
Controversy’s child?
The brand ambassador for IIFA since its inception in 2000, Amitabh Bachchan was apparently miffed with the organisers in 2011 as not only did they decide to host the event in Sri Lanka without consulting him, but they also signed on Salman Khan to host the same. Big B had tweeted then, “Not coming to Toronto IIFA... IIFA says my services are not required.”
Interestingly, Sallu received flak for agreeing to attend IIFA that year. When Vice President of Tamil Film Producers’ Council, A Prabhakaran, asked for a ban on the actor, Sallu allegedly replied that he didn’t mind being banned. (Santabanta.com)
Jodha sees Jalal from behind a tree. Shahnaz asks where is she looking? “Lets go to the asylum.” She says, “I will be there.” Shahnaz leaves. Jodha sees Jalal tripping over because of pain. She goes running to him. (Desi-tashan.com)
Naren and Ankita are sitting down at the table. Naren says to Ankita, “Who are you waiting for?” Ankita says, “My friend.” Naren ask “Which friend?” Ankita says, “Pari.” Naren says, “Yes, the guest of honour, where is she, why hasn’t she come yet?” Ankita says “Sir, she should be coming any minute.” Shekhar is driving Pari toward the Deshmukh house. (India-forums.com)
Avni tells Jiji and Jija that she loves to watch bhangra at a festival. Jiji tells her today she will have to do it too. (Tellyupdates.com)
KT breaks his engagement with Sonal, on charge of deceit. She shouts that she will marry him anyway, when Dadi slaps her on the face. Rachna’s family was also standing there in the lawn. (Tellyupdates.com)
pet and posed for the cameras.
This was at an invitation only dinner that was attended by several celebs, including players belonging to all the IPL teams. SRK put on a brief show and after his performance, he even arranged for a mock swayamvar for Virat.`
A source says that the cricketer was not caught unaware by SRK's stint. “Virat looked like he knew what was in store for him. It helped that Shah Rukh shares a good rapport with most Indian cricketers.
Besides, he has always indulged in friendly ban-
ussanne Roshan has teamed with Pearl Academy to launch its new campus in Mumbai.
On the occasion, the 35-year-old designer, who separated from her actor husband Hrithik Roshan, said that the association is to ignite, motivate and to innovatively help young children to think differently, and expose them to 360 degrees of an education.
Sussanne is the interior designer and founder of “The Charcoal Project”, which will award scholarships to deserving students looking for an opportunity in creative careers. (Santabanta.com)
ter with them. SRK called Virat on the stage and asked him to pick one of the actresses as his bride.
Virat then started uncovering posters of Bollywood actresses only to zero in on Anushka Sharma. SRK then presented her poster to him and all guests were in splits.”
Shah Rukh later took to Twitter to thank Virat for putting on a brave front. He posted, `Big thanks to Shane, Virat & Dhoni for being so sporting on stage. Great sportsman & even greater sporting spirit.
Thanks Abu Dhabi & IPL. (Santabanta.com)
Yis
“All my years
all the hard work, tough outdoor schedules, long hours have all helped me in my new avatar as politician,” Malini posted on Twitter.
Mathura is going to polls on April 24 and Malini, who is known as Bollywood’s “Dream Girl”, says if she is elected by the people of Mathura, she will make sure that the position of women in the city improves by providing ample opportunities to them.
“I want to do so much for Mathura – I want to set up self-help groups for the women here so that they become independent. I want the women to spend their time wisely and earn money for themselves,” she tweeted.
“I will be able to do all this only if I get elected! I plan to set up vocational training centres in the villages of Mathura where women can learn things,” Malini said. (Santabanta.com)
esteryear’s actress Hema Malini, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls on a BJP ticket, has credited her long film career for helping her become a politician.
The actress
up against sitting MP Jayant Chaudhary, son of Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh.
in movies –
Bipasha, Anil and Madhuri at previous IIFA award
Participants of the 12th Pakaraima Mountain Safari are enjoying the “Adventure of a Lifetime” in some of the most remote areas in Guyana, on a trip spanning hundreds of miles.
Undulating hills, deep gorges, and dangerous mountain passes were expertly navigated over the past few days, taking the brave safari travellers closer and closer to their destination, Orinduik Falls.
This eight-day event, organised by the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry and Rainforest Tours with assistance from the Regions Eight and Nine Administration, began in the wee hours of April 12, when the convoy of 26 vehicles departed the Guyoil Gas Station, on Regent Street.
Over the last few days, the team would have passed through several Amerindian villages on their 600-
mile journey, including Karasabai, Tiperu, Rukumoto, Morabaiko, Monkey Mountain, and Kato.
This annual journey plays an important role in developing Guyana’s nature and adventure brand of tourism, providing a bird’s eye view of the country’s potential.
While the participants brave the elements and battle the rough terrain, opportunities also abound for interacting with residents of the various communities along the way.
In addition to the locals, the 2014 Pakaraima Safari has attracted persons from Jamaica, Trinidad, and Suriname and these fortunate few are experiencing Destination Guyana’s vast hinterland in its most pristine form.
The organisers and participants have all expressed
gratitude to the sponsors, Guyoil/Castrol, MMC, GT&T and Marketing and Distribution for making the event possible.
The travellers are also looking forward to experiencing the Rupununi Rodeo in Lethem, which is another stop on the way to the convoy’s final destination.
Though many locals have not seized the opportunity to experience the safari, despite the Ministry’s new initiatives targeting them that were unveiled, the Tourism Ministry remains hopeful that the lure of adventure, beauty, and exploration will encourage more persons to sign up for Safari 2015.
A “Drive Guyana” Campaign was also launched this year to allow for greater participation, both local and international, in mini adventures and safaris across Guyana.
This week, Guyana Times Entertainment took a page out of a prominent British talent search magazine and came up with none other than the sultry Franale LaToya Holder as our Upcoming artiste of the week.
This Guyanese beauty, who happens to be a linguist, hails from the village of Victoria on the East Coast of Demerara.
Born to her parents on April 16, 1990, this Pisces related that she draws most of her inspiration for her music from her sibling and family members who can be very animated at times. “We would be fooling around and an entire song is born... the simple things that matter the most inspire me” said Nale, as she is popularly called by those close to her.
When questioned on what would be her most important tool when she is in the studio making music, Franale contended that in and out of the studio, she loves her
book and pen. “My book and pen have been there since before I was allowed to have a phone or tablet”.
In terms of inspiration, she maintained that she uses poetry and other literary forms to stimulate her creative juices and there is no one person in particular that she looks up to.
Franale added that she is driven by passion and appreciation for the art of music, since over the years, she has received a lot of critical feedback, which has helped her to grow as an artiste.
“Well, always being a singer and memorising oldies and hip hop lyrics at an early age, I just progressed from writing in my diary to doing short poems then stories and I’d think of little fun hooks. I continued to dream, because I have the gift of free will to do so, but also because I believe that dreams are mental goals that must be brought to life” said Franale when questioned on why she
was in pursuit of a career in music.
When further questioned on how she would describe the genre of music that she produces, Franale said she hasn’t yet devised a name for the fusion of hip hop, reggae, and dancehall that is her sound. “It’s my passion and my little flavour.”
Speaking on the many tracks that she has recorded, Franale said her favourite track has not yet been recorded. She, however, gave Guyana Times Entertainment a sneak peek of the track titled “We Ride”.
She explained that it was inspired by an old slavery song she heard one day and she managed to conjure up the lyrics to the prospective masterpiece. She said the song was about the rise to success by a young girl with limited options and overwhelming pressure.
And there you have it, a brief look at the world of Franale, a young, upcoming songstress.
Club Monaco is set to come alive with soca this Easter Monday Night as the club presents “Bad Behaviour Monday” with the energetic Skinny Fabulous.
Skinny Fabulous, whose real name is Gamal Doyle, is a talented and versatile artiste whose style falls between soca and dancehall. The Vincentian artiste is most popular for his hits “Behaving the Worse (BTW)” and “6:30”.
Meanwhile, popular Guyanese artiste and radio personality, “Wickedee” Malcolm, is also set to perform. The “Wickedee” man promises a vivacious performance.
Tickets to “Bad Behaviour Monday” cost $2000, while tickets for the elevated VIP area cost $3000. Leading DJs Gully Ras, Ackeem and Entertainer Ryon will juggle
Upcoming artiste
the latest and greatest hits. Bad Behaviour Monday follows “Kranium Live”, which was an exciting club experience with a difference.
Skinny Fabulous