Ministry’s cultural show, fireworks light up Central

A spectacular 15-minute fireworks display lit up the Divali Nagar Site, Chaguanas, last Saturday evening as the Ministry of Community Development hosted the second of its three national concerts, entitled SHINE: Spotlighting Community, to celebrate the nation’s 50th anniversary of Independence. From as early as 4:30 pm, patrons were kept informed and aware of the full programme and services offered by the ministry at a booth display at the venue. They also were treated to giveaways of promotional items, including pencil cases, pencils, rulers, pens, bags and souvenir cups. As the cultural show got underway about an hour later, members of the Shiv Shakti Dance Company performed a special invocation, which was followed by a historic re-enactment of the 1962 Independence flag-raising ceremony by the Siparia Police Youth Club. Director of the Community Development Division, Susan Corbett, formally welcomed attendees.

 

One of the highlights of the evening was a special fusion of dance, performed by the Shiv Shakti Dance Company and the Malick Folk Performing Company, along with a fusion of drumming featuring the San Juan Young Stars Tassa Group and the Malick Drummers. There were also performances by Miss La Reine Rive 2008 and Digicel Rising Stars runner up, Ru-Ann Cabralis and Tropical Angel Harps steelband. Following this, a presentation was put on by Xtreme Breakers School of Dance and a fashion show, which was organised by Michael Salickram, featuring traditional East Indian wear. The entertainment ended with an episode of chutney soca from Anil Bheem and his band. The evening ended with a display of fireworks, courtesy Fire Power Limited.  

The Ministry of Community Development will host the third and final national concert at Skinner Park, San Fernando, on Sunday, August 5. Community festivals also are being held in each of the ministry’s eight administrative districts across the country, with St George East to host its second cultural show and fireworks display this Sunday at the Brazil Recreation Ground. All concerts are free and open to the public.