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Mega fete launch for Carnival programme 2005

Friday April 15 2005

by Tahna Weston

Carnival Development Committee (CDC) on Wednesday unveiled its 2005 programme of events for Carnival during a media launch.

Board and staff members of the CDC, invited guests, sponsors, members of the various associations and members of the media, attended the event held at the Jolly Beach Resort in the pool area.

The launch was broadcast live via ABS Radio and Television. Gaynel channel, a Trinidadian television company was on hand to provide regional coverage.

Carnival Co-ordinator Vaughn Walter noted that the event was a momentous occasion since it was a first for the CDC in several respects.

In giving an overview of this year's summer festival, Walter explained that this year, serious attention would be given to the pre-events leading up to the two-week festival -running from 23 July to 2 August.

The CDC will be embarking on three new ventures - one being the business corporate fetes being held for the first time. There will be six fetes in all. School tours and block-a-ramas, which will highlight 100 per cent steel band music, will also be part of the 2005 innovations.

"I want to let you know that we are paying some serious emphasis this year on our pre- Carnival activities."

Walter explained that the launch planned for 30 April would get the ball rolling and that most of the competitors would be unveiled and the 2005 costumes by the various mas troupes showcased.

Spectators will however be treated first to a street jump-up from the ARG, following the day's play at the Antigua-hosted test cricket match, to the St. John's Cricket grounds where the launch will be held.

Twelve pioneers in the field of calypso will be inducted that same day into the Carnival Hall of Fame. They include King Short Shirt, King Obstinate, the late Oscar Mason and Victor "Babu" Samuel.

The Carnival Co-ordinator is inviting everyone to come and experience the launch, as a lot will be in store for all who attend.

The 2005 Queen of Carnival delegates were launched to the public during the event.

The CDC revealed that it was taking a no-nonsense attitude towards Carnival in an effort at making it the greatest summer festival in the region.


Well, I am hoping to be there this year but I will miss out on this fete though