06162017 weekend part i

Friday, June 16, 2017

books art dance food fashion gardening entertainment animals

Weekend

FATHER’S DAY Page 6

Never-ending love Destined to be together Weddings, pages 14 & 15

02 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, June 16, 2017

environment

Snakes in the park BNT hosts special workshop for at-risk serpents

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f the 12 snakes that are found in the Bahamas, all are harmless to humans and under serious threat from habitat loss and indiscriminate killing.

Photos and videos abound on social media showing Bahamians killing snakes, often with a sense a pride as if that is the best way to deal with them.

In addition to the threat from humans, snakes like the Bahamian Boa, Pygmy Boa, Bahamian Racer and Blindsnake must also face the constant attacks of non-native animals like dogs and cats.

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently held a well-attended snake-handling workshop at the Retreat Garden to show people how to deal safely with snakes found on their property. About 50 participants were able to interact with 12 snakes, including the non-native corn snake that was introduced to the Bahamas in the 1990s.

According to Scott Johnson, the BNT science officer who led the workshop, Bahamian snakes are not venomous demons out to strangle people and eat babies.

“Snakes have such a bad reputation here, but I love it when people interact with them and come to realise they are amazing creatures that play a very important role as vermin consumers.”

Most local snakes are found only in the Bahamas, where they help to maintain ecosystem balance. They are especially useful in controlling rodent populations.

If allowed to live a full life, a Bahamian Boa can consume thousands of rats. Like all boas, this snake is non-venomous and uses constriction to suffocate its prey.

BNT officials give workshop participants a hands-on experience with indigenous snakes.

In an effort to reduce snake killings, the BNT recently created a Facebook page called Nassau’s Snake Rescue Team which publishes facts on Bahamian snakes and videos on how to handle them. Members of the group will also respond to calls for the removal of snakes that are in danger of being killed.

“Snakes are attracted to areas with a lot of rats. And rats are attracted by lots of garbage. So if you don’t like living with snakes it is important to clean up around your home or business,”

said BNT Director of Science and Policy Shelley Cant-Woodside.

“While we do not expect everyone to love snakes, we do want people to appreciate that they are harmless and important to the environment,” she said.

“For those who are uncomfortable with snakes being in their home or business, we are working on creating a network, to remove them safely on request.”

The BNT hopes that persons trained through these workshops will become

part of the network known as Nassau’s Snake Rescue Team.

Following the creation of the snake rescue Facebook page, the BNT organised the recent workshop in response to many requests from the public for more information on how to safely remove snakes from their homes.

The BNT is a non-governmental, non-profit, membership organisation working to protect Bahamian natural resources by building a network of national parks and promoting environmental stewardship.

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Friday, June 16, 2017

Inside Weekend Interview 4-5

My perfect Bahamian weekend Jaquay Adderley Comedian “Bertrum Oh Bubbler” Q: Saturday breakfast or Sunday lunch?

Jefarrah Gibson, talks to the Tribune’s own Alesha Cadet about her Bahamian Icon award nomination for journalism

“I don’t wake up until lunchtime on Saturday, so Sunday lunch.”

Shopping 6

“Arizona! On the rocks! Cold.”

Still looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift? Check out this handy guide for the best things to buy Dad

Food 8 Xavia Rolle offers a new take on breakfast with her food truck

Food 9 Outback Steakhouse serves up Australian favourites with a Bahamian twist

Art 11 Third annual Night of Art concert series at the Potential Church

Q: Wine, Kalik, rum or cocktail?

Q: Beach or sofa?

“Give me beach any day, under one piece of shade and a can of Arizona!”

Q: What could you not do without?

“A heart. Just kidding; my phone.

You ever tap your pocket and you don’t feel your phone? Mini heart attack!”

Q: Weekend away: where would you go?

“Thailand or Dubai for the experience. A water park for the fun.”

Dance 12, 13 Eurhythmics Dance Studio celebrates 23 years

Weddings 14, 15 Lavette Turnquest and Frantz Ilfrard share a never-ending love story

Fashion 17 Delano Marc unveils his new swimsuit collection

Books 18 Students on same page for reading challenge

Gardening 19 Jack Hardy on the start of summer planting

Literary Lives 22-25 Alfred Hitchcock, the Master of Suspense

Forgotten Facts 25 Dorothy Defries’ gripping account of a voyage to Grand Bahama

Animals 27 Cruisin’ canines and Pet of the Week

Cover photo | Stanlo Photography

Things 2 Do this weekend Friday • Anuschka Wright at Hillside House Time: 5.30pm-8pm Venue: Antonius Roberts Studio and Gallery at Hillside House Jazz In Bloom presents an intimate evening with headliner and producer Anuschka Wright and the Jazz in Bloom band, ahead of their big concert on Sunday. Seating for the event is on a first come serve, first served basis.

Saturday • Father’s Day Promotion Time: 10 am -2pm Venue: The Mall at Marathon The Mall at Marathon is hosting a Reel Time Father’s Day Fishing Tournament in The Food Court.

Fathers, do you think you can catch the most “fish” in the Mall’s Fountain? Father & child teams can call 393-MALL (6255) to sign up to participate today.

• Free Mass CPR class Time:1pm-3pm Venue: Liberty United Missionary Baptist Church The church will host free CPR class which will include choking skills sessions; open to all ages.

Session 1pm-3pm. Take a couple of hours out of your day to learn the essential skills you’ll need in case of emergency. Participants are encouraged to make a small donation toward the church’s building fund.

For more information, call or whatsapp: 445-8111 • 2017 Aliv Bahamian Icon Awards Time: Red Carpet Arrivals begin at 5.30pm Venue: Melia Nassau Beach The black tie awards highlight some of the brightest stars in the country in different fields of endeavor • Feast of the Seven Kingdom Time: 7pm-11pm Venue: Bahamas National Trust Chef Jamal Petty of Island Flare hosts this pop- up- dinner event inspired by

the hit show Game of Thrones.

The noble houses of Island Flare formally invite you to the Bahamas National Trust Retreat on Village Road for Chef Petty’s ultimate Game of Thrones Inspired pop up dinner event.

Tickets are $75. Contact Island Flare565-1509 or the Bahamas National Trust 393-1317

Sunday • SurfLife Time: 6.30pm-9.30pm Venue: The Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts A fashion show that showcases swimwear designs by fashion and textile designer Delano Marc.

• Jazz in Bloom - More than a concert Time: 7pm-10pm Venue: Hilton Hotel Join the celebration at the 5th Annual Jazz In Bloom concert, produced by Bahamian Jazz Vocalist, Anuschka Wright; creator and founder of the Jazz In Bloom lifestyle movement

04 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, June 16, 2017

interview She has met some of entertainment’s biggest stars, highlighted the work of emerging entrepreneurs and artists, and shared the heartbreaking stories of those battling life-threatening diseases. And tomorrow night, The Tribune’s very own Alesha Cadet will be in the spotlight herself as a nominee in this year’s Bahamian Icon Awards.

The features writer tells Jeffarah Gibson about the unexpected path her career has taken and how she finally found her niche.

Alesha Cadet

T

HERE is truth to the saying that even the best laid plans often go awry. Take Tribune Features reporter Alesha Cadet for instance, who after completing her tertiary education had every intention of delving into the world of hard news when she

started working at this newspaper in 2010 as an eager cub reporter ready to chase down and investigate stories.

Now seven years, hundreds of stories and more than a handful of celebrity interviews later, the Eleuthera native has settled comfortably into her niche as a lifestyles writer and could potentially be the recip-

ient of an Aliv Bahamian Icon Award tomorrow night.

She is one of five nominees in the Media category of the awards show, which now in its fifth year and continues to acknowledge the exemplary achievements of men and women who have excelled in various industries and contributed to the overall

development of the Bahamian community.

With her writings, Alesha has shed light on Bahamian artists in the fields of music, art and fashion; previewed and gave an overview of major concerts and events; highlighted various restaurants around the island, informing readers about the tasty food options

available locally; featured Bahamian female leaders in a segment called “You Go Girl”, and shared the stories of both adults and children living with life-threatening diseases.

However, the job she does now – which she describes as fulfilling and rewarding – got off to an unexpected.

“I began my internship at

Friday, June 16, 2017

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The Tribune newspaper in 2010 as a news reporter for about two years. I was fresh out of college and straight into the field, interviewing people alongside experienced journalists and on crime scenes. I have to say, some of those assignments were a bit horrifying, but only because the field itself was very new to me,” Alesha recalled.

“Yes, we covered things like this in the classroom, but our content came from an actual newspaper, not so much a one-on-one with a source. I wouldn’t say it became easier for me later on, but like everything before my internship, I caught on and managed quite well.”

Sometime later there was a vacancy in the Tribune Features department that needed the skills of a creative writer who had an eye for the latest trends and a heart for a good human interest story.

Though she had little experience writing lifestyle pieces, her personality, love of fashion and entertainment made her transition to the section a seamless one.

“When I was approached to write for the Features section I didn’t know much about the content required or what to expect in terms of my position in that section, but it was right up my alley. I was already a lover of fashion and entertainment, so finding my colourful side was not at all hard. The Features team also played a major role in my move into the section. My colleagues then and now are always so very kind and willing to assist me whenever help is needed; it’s a blessing. It is in this section of the newspaper where I have grown so much, even taking my feature stories and turning them into radio reports,” she said.

It did not take long for Alesha to realise that she had in fact found the right place for her. What made things even more exciting and fun for the reporter was meeting people with unique stories and rubbing shoulders with international musicians such as

printed she lost the battle. Her memory lives on through her beautiful children. I was grateful to have told her story,” said Alesha.

And with that same spirit of gratitude and graciousness is how Alesha intends to make her grand entrance on the red carpet at the Bahamian Icon Awards, which will be held in the Independence Ballroom of Meliá Nassau Beach Resort.

Alesha said it feels surreal for her, after writing so many stories about deserving people being nominated and receiving various awards, to have the shoe on the other foot.

“Being on the other side of the recorder is humbling. After a story is published persons would usually send me a thank you note saying how thankful they are for the article I wrote on them, but all in all I am always happy to shine light on these persons, especially young persons like myself.

They are doing so many great and creative projects in their respective fields and it deserves recognition,” she said.

“For me, I am happy that there are organisations like the Bahamian Icon Awards, Elevation Awards, Cacique Awards, and more, that took the initiative to put Bahamians in the spotlight like this.

Hopefully, the trend continues and catches on. It was a very pleasant surprise finding out I was nominated and I am thrilled to be chosen from among so many other great talents in my category. I am going to see a lot of familiar faces at the event.

“I am also excited to have my support system fly over from Eleuthera to just experience the moment with me, especially little Miss Isabella Maddison Deal – the family star.”

Being nominated for an Aliv Bahamian Icon Award is a major highlight in her journalism career, Alesha said, as was the transition from ‘hard’ to ‘soft’ news, which only goes to show that even the best laid plans can go awry, but ultimately result in something even better.

‘American Idol’ star Fantasia Barrino, Grammy Award winner R&B artist Johnny Gill, as well as ‘The King of Lovers’ Rock’ Beres Hammond.

“Every single thing makes my job fun and exciting – from the atmosphere in the newsroom to my weekend assignments. This influence I have in the field, I try make the most of it. Also not knowing what to expect from one week to the next is exciting for me; there is always something new. You never know when you’re going to be called to the airport to be a part of an interview and meet a star like Fantasia or have a sit-down with a living legend like Beres Hammond – all great memories for me in my career,” she said.

“Who would have thought working under pressure (a deadline) would be ‘no pressure’ at all. Moreover, it was also exciting to see my byline printed for the first time some years ago; I still remember the feeling.”

The young writer feels sim-

“Every single thing makes my job fun and exciting – from the atmosphere in the newsroom to my weekend assignments.

This influence I have in the field, I try make the most of it. Also not knowing what to expect from one week to the next is exciting for me; there is always something new. You never know when you’re going to be called to the airport to be a part of an interview and meet a star like Fantasia or have a sit-down with a living legend like Beres Hammond.”

ilarly moved when reflecting on one of the most memorable stories she has written to date.

“I was approached to interview and write a ‘living with cancer’ story on a lady my family were very familiar with.

I had known her for years, and until this day that was the hardest and most emotional sit-down for me. Even with an oxygen tank to assist her breathing while speaking to me, she reflected on good times, jokes, and love for her family and others. Apart from in a work capacity, I would speak to her from time to time regarding her updates and daily life; she was ill but she was a fighter. She loved her kids and had a heart a gold. I wrote the story for her in an effort to promote a Go Fund Me page and also to educate the public on the point of view of a cancer sufferer. After the article was printed I took a few copies for her to see, but I believe she was having treatments in the hospital during that time. And just two weeks or so after the story was

06 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, June 16, 2017

shopping

Tips to treat top dads

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

W

hile there is a Bahamian saying that the only thing fathers get on father’s day are crabs for dinner, Tribune Weekend is here to dispel the myth by providing a round-up of all the things that you can do for the special man in your life on his big day.

When it comes to making Dad feel like the king of the castle that he is, make sure to sit him down to a feast of his favourites, whether that be a mid-morning brunch available at a number of restaurants around the island, a more formal dinner out, special homecooked meal or even a beer and burger in front of the TV - just make sure that he gets a chance to enjoy his day surrounded by all his favourite people.

If Dad’s preference is a day of relaxing, consider packing him for up for a sun, sand and sea on a day excursion. Both Blue Lagoon and Pearl Island have special excursion rates designed to help Dad get away from it all for a fund filled beach day.

Father’s day is a great day to acknowledge not just biological fathers, but all the men in your children’s life who play a meaningful role. Be sure to include stepfathers, uncles, grandfathers, your pastor and brothers, coaches or any other special men on the list.

Remember that showing these gentleman your appreciation does not have to be expensive. A small well-thought token such as a bottle of their favourite drink or a handmade card by the kids, a gift certificate to go to their favourite nightspot or even movie certificates so he can catch the latest blockbuster will make him feel extra special.

If a bigger gift is in the budget, here are a few ideas depending on interest.

ACED Design’s RompHim was created by four students at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, including Chip Longenecker, left, and Alex Neumann, right. They are with Russell Lowell, centre.

The Metrosexual Dad - if he spells fatherhood with a G and Q, then cater to his inner sense of style with a tailored shirt or tie, fabulous shoes or a cologne set to keep him smelling sweet. If he is really adventurous, now is a perfect excuse to introduce him to the most recent fashion craze - the male romper.

The gym fanatics - if he is a gym rat - consider a gym membership or anything to help his workouts go smoother such as a personalised world’s greatest dad water bottle gym bag or even his own weight set.

The chef - Caterer to his culinary skills with a set of grilling tools, or even a shiny grill, perfect to help him hone those BBQ skills now that summer is fully here. If he prefers a more gourmet style, unique spices, cooking oils or kitchen gadgets and small appliances are a great gift idea.

The do it yourself master When Dad is in the mood for tinkering or home repair, he will love reaching for a perfectly gifted set of appliances or tools check his stash and then figure out what can be added to ensure that he is the ultimate tool time hero.

The sentimentalist - Here is a secret, when it comes to their kids, all guys are softies - every Dad will love a specially drawn and frame picture by his kids, or even framed handprints of the little ones. If the family is all together for father’s day, make sure you gather everyone for a photo shoot that will be cherished for years to come.

The Hobbyist - Whether his interest is fishing, golfing, bowling, swimming or tennis, there is also something on Dad’s wishlist that will add to the enjoyment of his hobby - now you just have to be sneaky to figure out what it is.

The Tech - If technology and new shiny gadgets make him happiest, maybe he’d go nuts for an android box, tablet, Amazon Fire Stick, or some of the new waterproof headphones now the rage.

Happy Shopping!

Friday, June 16, 2017

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08 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, June 16, 2017

food POW’s signature ‘Cracking Cluck’ cracked chicken served with waffles

Xavia Rolle

Putting the ‘POW’ in power breakfast Food truck makes a business case for mobile brunch service

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ocal event planner and self-described foodie Xavia Rolle always had a thing for breakfast. In fact, as a college intern at the University of Houston’s School of Hotel & Restaurant Management she worked the breakfast assembly line at a Hilton property, whipping up custom omelettes for the guests.

Fast-forward to today, and she is the owner of POW! (pancakes, omelettes and waffles) food truck and is bringing a unique taste experience to Nassau by introducing a new twist to mobile food service.

Launched in February, the brunch on-demand business that caters to private functions and local festivals has grown organically to include pop-up

brunch locations throughout New Providence.

“I wanted to bring something different to the food scene in Nassau where I could share recipes that I love,” Ms Rolle explained. “Gourmet food trucks are trending globally and Bahamians are more open to trying new food concepts, so I thought, why not blend the meal that I enjoy most with a fun, food truck experience?”

Last summer, the former romance manager at Meliá Nassau Beach Resort and owner of Xa La Mode Weddings, started mulling over how to introduce the food truck concept to the local market. She began testing and perfecting brunch-inspired recipes with eager family and friends.

“My background in weddings and banquet management makes me very customer service driven, and since launching I think that’s what sets my business apart from others. I’m passionate about providing a level of service and I pay close attention to the little details to ensure hot, fresh and tasty food comes out of the POW vehicle,” said Ms Rolle.

The compact, hot pink, white and blue truck made its original debut at Festival Rum Bahamas in February and customer feedback was immediate.

People tasting the popular ‘Cracking

Xavia Rolle serves customers from her POW! food truck at a popup brunch location.

Cluck’ cracked chicken and waffles or the full house omelette loaded with veggies, meat and cheese, kept asking where they could get the POW experience outside of the fair event. Overnight, POW’s business model evolved to include the weekly pop-up service currently being offered.

“I decided to test the idea of a weekly pop-up location by announcing the venue a few days ahead on social media and WhatsApp. The idea was to capitalise on the early to mid-morning traffic. I built a business case around the fact that POW could attract new customers at each location while relying on our online following to retain

repeat customers. Within three hours of setting up the very first popup location, we were sold out!”

The food truck menu balances classic continental breakfast with surprising Bahamian elements. In addition to the popular chicken n’ waffles, POW serves up the ‘Conchy Joe’ – a mixture of tender cracked conch, fluffy waffles made with special ingredients and drizzled with the POW sauce, a sweet, guava duff-inspired syrup. Meanwhile, the ‘Lobster Wafflina’, a cracked lobster and waffle combination, is also a popular seasonal dish.

“It’s amazing how quickly the POW concept is catching on. We have new menu items in store and will be looking to partner with other local businesses where we can mutually benefit from the popup experience as well as growing our private catering services. Every week we are tweaking our system to improve service. I see the potential for growth and I am grateful for how the process is evolving,” said Ms Rolle.

• For more information on POW’s upcoming popup brunch locations or to book them to cater a private event, call 242- 468-7050, e-mail powbrunch@ gmail.com or follow them on Facebook at POW242 and on Instagram @ POW_242.

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Friday, June 16, 2017

food

Dining at the ‘birthday capital of the Bahamas’ PHOTOS/SHAWN HANNA

Outback Steakhouse emphasises consistency

BY ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net

A

t the Outback Steakhouse, consistency is key. And maybe that is why the restaurant managed to win the hearts of Bahamians at both its old and new location.

July 1 will mark four years at the Marathon Road venue (it was formerly located on East Bay Street). For Trevor Williams, managing partner, the success of the Bahamian branch of the popular US franchise is all down to good food, affordable prices and customer service.

He said it is also a great feeling knowing the Nassau restaurant is 100 per cent Bahamian owned and managed, employing some 98 locals.

“One thing that I try to tell my management team is that any problem that you may have in the restaurant is solvable before the customer leaves. So we have that commitment to customer service, ensuring that we offer the best in the most amicable way that we can,” said Mr Williams.

“Bahamians like good food and they also like when you give them good service. An (incentive) to always come back is the fact that we offer great food at an affordable price. We have demonstrated that throughout the time that we have been here. The qual-

ity level is still here, and when you come to Outback you know what you are going to get. You know it is going to be consistent and you are not going to break the bank. That is one of our greatest attributes compared to other restaurants around town.”

Chef Florese Simmons said customer favourites from the menu include the famous blooming onion, the creamy conch chowder, the coconut and grilled shrimp, the Toowoomba pasta, and of course the ‘Chocolate Thunder from Down Under’.

“We have the best food because it is Outback Steakhouse with a Bahamian style

and twist,” she said.

“I love everything. Our wood fire grill and the seasoning we use goes into making the perfect steak. You can’t even purchase that seasoning in stores. It is challenging, but I love the consistency. We do the same thing all day, every day, so it helps us to better ourselves and our products.”

Of particular joy to her is seeing empty plates be returned to the kitchen.

“If they come back empty that only means the persons enjoyed everything,” she said.

“When I go to tables and speak to persons they tell me how good the food is and the fact that they been here two

months prior and the food is still the same. I have been in this field for 20 years and I am still in love with what I do; it runs through my veins.”

Mr Williams jokingly added that he would like to believe Outback Steakhouse is “the birthday capital of the Bahamas” due to the number of persons who choose to celebrate their special day at the restaurant.

“There aren’t many places you can go with a party of 10 or more to enjoy this kind of dining experience for a birthday. I think that is what sets us apart; we have the facilities and we also cater to that,” he said.

10 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, June 16, 2017

All Andros Crab Fest

BTC DONATES TO ALL ANDROS CRAB FEST Highlights of the festival are the excellent crab dishes, the live land crab habitat, the crab competitions, the homecoming of returning islanders, and the awesome “All Bahamian Music Concert”.

Musical performances over the course of the weekend include Royal Bahamas Defence Force Band, Spankband, Puzzle, Elon Moxey, Geno D, D-Mac, Dyson Knight, Stileet, Fanshawn Taylor, Mattellus Chipman and more.

As for the culinary competitions, the categories are the best crab and rice, crab and rice with peas, crab and rice with conch, crab and rice with beans and crab and rice with coconut milk.

There are also competitions for crab soup with cassava, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, carrots, with coconut milk, dumplings, baked stuffed crab backs, curry crab, boil crab and dough.

Festival-goers also participate in the releasing of the crabs, which is during the opening ceremonies where 1,200 crabs are released in the audience for crab grabbing.

The largest watermelon-eating contest in the country is also held as this is known as the best food for crabs.

Crab Fest is also known for its Eco Corner, where patrons are educated about the environment of Andros.

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

T

HOUSANDS of Bahamians are expected to attend the 21st annual All Andros Crab Fest - one of the most anticipated and largest cultural events which continues today (Friday) through Saturday.

The festival, which signals the start of summer for many of the islanders, started yesterday at the Queen’s Park in Fresh Creek, Andros.

Organisers estimate a turnout of more than 10,000 Bahamians and visitors over the three-day period.

This time around, BTC has donated $20,000 to the All Andros Crab Fest Committee in support of the annual cultural event. The company, which has time and time again demonstrated its commitment to investing in the culture of The Bahamas, has partnered with the event for several years.

“BTC is a great corporate citizen and we continue to partner with organisations that promote culture, education and community involvement. We’ve been partners with the committee for many years, so it was a natural fit to lend our support again,” a BTC spokesman said.

BTC’s set-up at the event will include a pop-up shop in which festival participants will be able to top up their phones and also have the opportunity to buy a phone.

All Andros Crab Fest

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Friday, June 16, 2017

art

Night of Art to help students shine “We at TEP Bahamas are seeking to make a difference in the lives of these students by helping them to overcome financial, social and emotional challenges as they persevere to successfully graduate from high school.”

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net

U

NDER the theme “Hope That Brings Change”, members of the Timothy Education Program (TEP) Bahamas will host the third annual Night of Art concert series at the Potential Church tonight, at 7pm.

With an entry fee of $5 for children and $12 for adults, all proceeds will go towards the TEP - a community initiative that supports 25 children from deserving families who show academic potential, with the support they need for the full six years of their high school education.

Led by Giavana Jones, the group is made up of volunteers who are interested in seeing a higher percentage of Bahamian students graduate from high school.

Giavana said tonight’s event will showcase exciting talent in the field of performing arts.

Hosted by comedian Bertrum O Bubbler, the evening will highlight live art, song, dance, rap, spoken word performances, and drama. There will also be activities such as face painting, performances by artists such as Sammi Starr, Eman, Stacs, a presentation by the ministry of Epic Church Bahamas, and more.

“This is our third time and honestly, for a group as small as ours that has limited visibility and even more limited resources, this is amazing. This is our first year at a larger venue and expanding to include the extras so we are just hoping that we get the support for the effort that we have put in. Each of the two years before, we had great patrons and amazing artists. We honour their support through sharing their gifts on this platform at no cost to us, and the TEP team and the families are super grateful,” said Giavana.

Every year, there is a theme that centres around hope and this year is no different, with artists sharing their stories of hope. The team also believes every single attendee will be assisting a family in need and helping students, or “Teppers” as they call them.

“Your entrance fee adds up and goes

Sammi Starr directly toward a school shirt or shoes or textbooks. Even if you can’t attend, consider donating by buying a ticket.

We offer pre-sale at $5 (child) and $10 (adult). If you own a company, your financial support or gift certificate can help make the night an even greater success. Every single dime we make goes directly into our Teppers,” said Giavana.

“We at TEP Bahamas are seeking to

make a difference in the lives of these students by helping them to overcome financial, social and emotional challenges as they persevere to successfully graduate from high school.”

She expressed her excitement in seeing the growth and development of this event, as each year more persons become aware and buy into the cause.

“I’m most excited about bringing more awareness, gaining more support,

and watching and hearing the artists share their talents. I’m looking forward to seeing lives changed, with persons leaving feeling hopeful and having a new reason to live. I want persons to know that all things are possible to those who believe, and that life is a playground in which we determine how the game is played. Lastly, I am looking forward to our students receiving what they deserve,” said Giavana.

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Friday, June 16, 2017

entertainment

Let the rhythm move you tonight Eurhythmics mark 23rd anniversary

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net

T

HE Eurhythmics Dance Studio is celebrating its 23rd annual production tonight at the University of the Bahamas’ Performing Arts Centre.

Gabriella Szabό, the troop’s director and a professional dance teacher, spoke with Tribune Weekend about what to expect from the lineup, what she is looking forward to the most, and the growth of the Eurhythmics over the years. “ ‘Let the Rhythm Move You’ is going to be an exciting event. It’s a dance show where all of our students display all of their hard work for the dance year. They’ve worked tremendously hard to give an amazing show and its incredible to see their growth from a performance and technical perspective. I’m extremely proud of them,” said Gabriella.

While the journey has not always been an easy one, she said the fact that they are celebrating 23 years speaks to the invaluable contribution dance has made to the lives of the students who have passed through Rosetta Street dance studio over the decades.

“I’m thrilled to know that Eurhythmics Dance Studio can provide a creative outlet where children can enjoy something they are passionate about. It’s incredible to see where dance has taken students. I’ve had students receive scholarships to various universities and even landed spots in dance companies throughout the United States. Some people

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say that creative art is an arena that’s dying in the Bahamas, but I wholeheartedly disagree; the best is yet to come,” said Gabriella.

At Eurhythmics, students can learn classical ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap, stretch and choreography. Adjacent to the studio is a play area decked out with video games, toys, a kitchenette and dolls for the little ones. To entertain the older children, there is a homework table and a movie area with DVDs for their enjoyment.

“Deciding to showcase what the children have learned throughout the year was an easy decision to make. We wanted parents to see how talented their children are and be just as proud of them as we are. Every year we decide to place the bar higher when we put on a show. We go over every detail with tons of precision from lighting to costumes.

The entire studio puts forth a fantastic effort to give our viewing audience not just a show, but an experience. This year’s show was inspired by everyone who loves the art of movement and has followed us through out the years and kept coming back year after year for more,” said Gabriella.

Highlights of tonight’s show will feature various genres of dance; from ballet and jazz to hip hop and other contemporary styles.

Gabriella said her favourite thing about teaching is seeing students adapt to a new style of dance and executing a choreography flawlessly. She stands by her claim that she has the best students in the world.

Tonight’s performers will include the rising stars (ages 2 1/2 - 7); the primary class (ages 8 - 11), and the adults (ages 12 and older).

“While having a show is exciting, dance in general is beneficial to everyone who decides to participate and take the training seriously.

It’s an indispensable lesson in discipline, consistency and commitment,” said Gabriella.

Her all-time personal favourite selection is the Eurhythmics’ signature piece – “The Circle of Life” – which has been performed ever since the studio was established in September of 1994.

Meanwhile, the segment she is looking forward to the most in tonight’s show is a new choreography called “Black Sheep”.

She said it is a ‘must-see’ and is sure to be a fan favourite this year.

“We wholeheartedly encourage everyone to attend to see what Eurhythmics Dance Studio has to offer. Come to experience why we have been around for 23 years and will continue to be around for another 23 more.

We love all of our Eurhythmics fans and appreciate everyone who has allowed the rhythm to move them, especially because of a simple reason that year after year we keep raising the bar in the dance industry,” said Gabriella.

Tickets for the show are available at the studio at a cost of $25 per person.