Harbour Lights for Crop Over

Harbour Lights launched their 2008 Crop Over presentation on Saturday May 4th and these are the costumes on offer:

The prices are Female Costumes $365 with the exception being the green and red costumes priced at $335.00 and the Male Costumes $245 with the exception being the green and red costumes priced at $265.00. All prices are in Bajan dollars and include food and drink. For further information contact bajansugarj@hotmail.com

I remember one year seeing this tiny band for Crop Over and it turns out it was the Harbour Lights band! Apparently they have now grown in numbers and are very much like the "Harts" of Barbados with ensuring they go first on the parade route each year, but take a look at the photographs from Crop Over 2007 and see if there are not other similarities:

Yes, the costumes are pretty cute and pretty skimpy just like Harts!LOL.

HOT off the press!!

OK, allyuh know I have cannot hand you all the information as I get it since I don't want anyone suing me for libel (laugh) anyway read between the lines of this one:

Sources have reported that a once spurned designer, extracted from a popular band without being able to find another nest to roost is now the brainchild behind bringing their OWN band to "Spice" up 2009 Carnival!!

That may explain why this designer has just returned from China, hopefully no fur will be flying come Carnival 2009! Other names involved in this new band for Carnival 2009 include one half of a soca duo who has a history of  heading a section in mas bands Barbarossa and Poison, as well as his girl friend who shares the same surname as one particular beauty queen maker who is also involved in making mas of his own! The other two names rounding out the band have been linked to marketing  a popular brand of bottled water and managing one of the biggest venues for band launches, weddings and parties in Trinidad.

And that is all I have to say about that!

More Vincy Mas Costumes

Now I am used to seeing only sketches of costumes for Vincy Mas, but the phonetically challenged band "Ahdrenaline" chose actual costumes to display their 2008 presentation "Ahrora Borealis"(sic). This is the section "Magnetic Storm" and you can click on the photo to be taken to their website to view the other five sections:

I tried my BEST not to comment on the costume, however it is hard to ignore the glaring obvious use of regular pantyhose instead of "sheer to the waist" tights,worse yet the tights are not even matching her complexion!!! What were the designers of the band thinking when they let that poor young lady actually pose for a photo shoot wearing that monstrosity, and I am talking about the tights here; it was better she had gone without pantyhose.

On a brighter note SVG Players costumes are up, their presentation for 2008 is "True Wonders of Nature's Exotica"; click on the photo for more costumes.

I am telling you, one day I must experience Vincy Mas,"The HOTTEST Carnival in the Caribbean" myself!

Monday Wear or No Monday Wear?

The debate over included Monday wear for TRIBE masqueraders continues; on one hand we have the masqueraders who think that your costume should be worn on both days to give the band some uniformity as it is not a "t shirt band". And on the other we have masqueraders who do not want to wear their bra top specifically, since we have the option to purchase extra boy shorts, on Monday.

At the price we are paying for costumes and given the fact that other bands include some type of "Monday Wear" for their masqueraders, do you think TRIBE should follow suit and give masqueraders the option of a T Shirt, Baby T or Tank top for 2009?

	Should TRIBE provide Monday wear to masqueraders?
		Yes, because I am not wearing my costume on both days.
		No,masqueraders should wear their costumes on both days.
		I do not care, I am wearing my own Monday Wear.
	Free polls from Pollhost.com

Real Rewards to Come?

I was reading Ms Carnival Diva's blog and she has posted an email that she wrote to TRIBE inquiring about registration for first time masqueraders as well as rumours that a certain Island People designer would be joining their camp. The response was QUITE interesting and I suggest you visit her blog to read it yourself. But the one thing that stood out for me was this part:

There will be ample opportunity for many of our past masqueraders to play with the band. Priority will however be given to persons playing with us for their 5th year etc.

Does this mean that masqueraders who have been wholeheartedly "loyal" to TRIBE from their deubt in 2005 will get a special day for registration above everyone else? If so, I think it is long overdue and a very good gesture for the reward of REAL loyalty.

I know first time masqueraders might see the system as somewhat unfair since the popular sections will sell out first, but I personally know of persons who have registered with TRIBE then sold their costume to play with another band and applied for a TLC card based on the fact that they registered to play with the band once. They then have the same opportunity to register along with masqueraders who have played faithfully every year since 2005, even though they have never played with TRIBE!

In addition, there are those who register in two bands, including TRIBE knowing full well they plan on selling their costume AND do not transfer the costume to the person who bought it effectively keeping their TLC. Not to mention that there are some people who will register in two bands just for having the option of choice. This system of hogging TLC cards is not fair to first time masqueraders as these people effectively block a spot for a new masquerader and later sell the costume for a profit on Carnival Junction!

So, if these plans are put in place for registration this year I applaud TRIBE for finally making the TLC card worth something for those who have been truly loyal. I know my opinion might not be popular, especially for those of you without a TLC card or those with a TLC card who have played only one or two years and are anxious about securing the costume they have their heart set on. However, TRIBE instituted the TLC card system and I have always found that it was deficient since it did not serve the purpose of rewarding loyalty, as everyone whether you played one year or four, had the same chance at getting registered.

Other loyalty programs offer rewards to persons based on how much they consume a product not so? You gain free miles, and a free ticket, the more times you fly or you are eligible for free subway faster the more subways you purchase so hence based on this system on rewarding loyalty those who have displayed loyalty by playing with TRIBE the most should be privy to something special faster than those who have only now started playing, don't you think?

CARIBANA 2008 OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Luminat’eau: Carnival H2O (formerly “Carnivalissima”)
Friday June 13 - Sunday June 15, 2008; Noon - 6:00 p.m. Harbourfront Centre
Luminato month long event closing at Harbourfront.

Calypso Tents Music Series
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from June 13 - July 13, 2008; 8:00 p.m. - Midnight De Great Iron Pot, 55 Nugget Avenue, Scarborough | Calypso City, 25 Cecil Street, Toronto
This is an exciting annual showcase of Canada's best Calypso and Soca original music for the Caribana Festival. The series runs three nights each week (Friday Sunday) at various venues in Toronto, each night featuring a different cast of singers and 'live' bands performing Calypso in its best storytelling tradition: social and political commentary, humor and wit.

Scotiabank CARIBANA™ Official Launch
Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall Tuesday July 15, 2008; Noon - 2:00 pm
This official ceremony launches the activities for the 2008 Caribana Festival Season. Patrons can meet and mingle with Federal, Provincial and Municipal officials, Caribana representatives and sponsors while sampling Caribbean and international cuisine. It is a snapshot of what's in store over the coming weeks.

Scotiabank CARIBANA™ Junior Carnival
Shoreham Drive | Yorkgate Mall Saturday, July 19, 2008; 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Junior Carnival provides festival-goers and the surrounding community the opportunity to experience the thrills and joys as young masqueraders participate in their early festival years

Roots to Rhythm - Art Exhibition
Royal Ontario Museum Thursday July 24 – Monday Aug 4, 2008; Noon - 9:00 pm
A Visual Art Exhibition – COLOURblind International – ‘Roots to Rhythm’ produced by the Association of African Canadian Artists. An intriguing collection of over 60 works that have been influenced by our journey.

Scotiabank CARIBANA™ Caribana Gala
Liberty Grand – Exhibition Place Friday July 25, 2008; 7:00 pm – 1:00 am
An elegant evening of style and glamour, celebrating Caribana and paying tribute to its pioneers. Proceeds from this event will be directed to a Caribana Foundation.

'Kaiso 365' Calypso Monarch Finals
Leah Posluns Theatre, 4588 Bathurst Street, Toronto Saturday July 26, 2008; 8:00 pm - 1:00 am
This is where the Calypso Monarch is crowned. Come and see the best and biggest Canadian Calypsonians battle for the crown. From the topical to the lyrical, the sweet Soca rhythms will lift you out of your seat and get you moving.

King & Queen Show
Lamport Stadium Thursday July 31, 2008; 7:00 pm - Midnight
On the Thursday evening before Caribana Day the Kings and Queens of the Bands meet to do battle. Like peacocks they will primp and preen, eliciting “oohs” and “aahs” from the audience. It is an honour for any participant to be enthroned the King or Queen of Scotiabank Caribana 2008. The King and Queen symbolically have the keys to the city, freedom of the streets. Their movements are supposed to be uninhibited. Band members and onlookers alike are to give them the respect, even if mockingly, usually accorded to real-life royalty

Pan Alive
Lamport Stadium Friday August 1, 2008; 7:00 pm - Midnight
A thrilling evening showcasing the musical and tonal qualities of the steelpan as members of the Ontario Steelband Association compete before a panel of judges. This Panorama of the North is the biggest opportunity to hear this wonderful instrument in all its glory. The evening is devoted entirely to the capturing rhythms of the steelpan.

Scotiabank CARIBANA™ Parade
Exhibition Place (Lake Shore Blvd) Saturday August 2, 2008; 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
This showcase event features an incredible display of colour and pageantry, commencing at Exhibition Place and proceeding west along Lake Shore Boulevard. Exhibition Place and Lake Shore Boulevard will come alive with the sights and sounds of Carnival!

De CARIBANA™ Lime — Island Festival
Olympic Island Sunday August 3, 2008; 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
This event features a full day of performances from a variety of artistes, highlighting the diverse cultures of all the Caribbean people. Activities include a food competition, song, dance, theatrical drama and storytelling.

SOURCE: toronto-lime.com

New Band for Trinidad Carnival 2009

Coming on the heels of Element's Logo Launch and Introduction party, news reaching me is another new band for Carnival 2009 is getting ready to debut soon:

Band Name :"Kaotic... Experience the Frenzy"

2009 Presentation: "Shake, Rattle and Roll"

Size : 12 sections

More details to follow !!!

And we have a date!!!!

The TRIBE  facebook group "Birds of a Feather" is reporting the band launch date as July 26th 2008!!

I just called the mas camp for a confirmation and was told that the date  Saturday July 26th is  95% sure!

Heh if you don't believe me the number to call 868-625-6800 or info@carnivaltribe.com!

The Sauce has moved..sorta!

Trinidad Carnival Diary now has another domain name; you can now find the blog on www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com! Don't forget to bookmark the new link and don't worry the other link is still in operation for at least the next 3 days. After that you will automatically be directed from the old address to the new one.

Crop Over Mas for Trinis!

I was reading today's Trinidad Guardian, Pulse section, and saw mention of a Bajan band that is promoting specifically to Trinis journeying to Crop Over. The band is "Jump Barbados" and their 2008 Crop Over presentation is "Sand Dollar". To my surprise, costumes are already available for viewing and registration. There are six sections to choose from, designed by Renee Ratcliffe, and photos can be see on their website. From what is stated in the Guardian Allison Hinds is also involved in Jump Barbados, and Trinis registered to play mas with Jump Barbados get a 50% ticket discount on Allison Hinds free drinks fete taking place on Thursday July 31st.

This is the costume package tailored to Trinis, and other overseas masqueraders:

PREMIUM PLUS Package US $300

Transport to and from your hotel Designer costume (click here to view costumes) Costume delivery to your hotel Fitting service at your hotel Champagne Breakfast Party accessories All-day premium bar Music by top DJ Chill out Truck on the road All day private toilet facilities for band members only Experienced security detail Private ambulance service and paramedic

I guess the new implementation of V.A.T. on costumes for 2008 everyone will be paying higher prices to jump up on Kadooment day!!!

What's up with Cropover?

One of my readers in the planning process for Cropover 2008 sent me the following email expressing frustrations over the slow launch of bands for the festival:

Hi Saucy,

I frequently visit your blog looking, hoping, wishing for any updates or comments from anyone on Cropover bands.I question why Cropover band organizers seem to be in no big hurry to get their band and costumes in order and get the word out to potential masqueraders. I guess I'm so used to the fever pitched frenzy of Island People and TRIBE that occurs months and months before Carnival Monday and Tuesday. Do you know or can you solicit responses on what really goes on behind the scenes for Cropover Planning?

Is there some element of secrecy that warrants waiting until last minute to publish costumes and begin registration? Does everyone in Barbados know about things us foreigners are not privileged to know about as yet? I'm starting to get the impression that I should find a local contact to ensure I get in a band.

Please see this email I got below from Baje International.They're NOW looking for models! At least this gives some glimmer of hope but Cropover is only a few months away. What do you think?

BAJE GIRL SEARCH 2008

If you believe that you are beautiful, smart, confident and possess a unique yet intriguing personality, then you might have what it takes to become one of our 2008 Baje girls.

In addition to gaining invaluable experience, ladies will receive free costumes, and be featured and promoted in our media campaign via the web, radio, press and TV. The few ladies chosen will become a part of the Baje family and receive free entrance into Baje events for a whole year.

If you are interested and between the ages of 18 and 26 years old, please send a photograph and a brief overview to

rhaynes@baje-intl.com and / or to bajerichhaynes@gmail.com attention Richard Haynes.

All entries must be in by Friday, May 9th 2008 .

Only selected candidates will be contacted and interviewed and the new Baje girls will be chosen within a week in order to be included in our 2008 costume photo shoot, media launch and star on our brand new web-site.

Good Luck.

The Baje girl search begins NOW!!!

My thoughts are, that a few years ago Crop Over was the only summer Carnival, apart from Caribana and Labor Day,which attracted both regional and international participants who would journey to Barbados to experience Kadooment. There was no rush to launch bands or show off costumes then since there was no real alternative to Crop Over in my opinion, and masqueraders just got used to waiting until a specific time to register.

However, now that we have other Carnivals occurring around the same time such as Antigua, Grenada, Notting Hill with band launches having already started in April, those waiting for costumes for crop over are getting a little anxious, especially as it has been notoriously difficult to register for these costumes as an overseas masquerader. Not to mention that band launches for Trinidad Carnival 2009 are schedule to start in JULY, a full six months before the actual festival!

Many of the Crop Over Bands' websites are still featuring information for 2007 with the exception of Berger Boyz who have a teaser of their theme "Hollywood", they also have a chat box that is pretty updated with other eager persons looking forward to Crop Over. I guess all that those of you planning for Crop Over can do is keep checking to see when the bands launch and/or update their website! And if there are any Bajans who would like to address they issue, feel free to leave a comment, as my thoughts are based only on my observations. I have no knowledge of how decisions are made for Crop Over in terms of band launches and showing of costumes.

News from Evolution!

Got this in my inbox today.. thought I would share!

Hey everyone,
This your luvable, huggable, Carnival buddy.... Shynnelle.....(From Evolution)
The last time I emailed, I was thanking everyone for the incredible support that EVOLUTION received in its first year and I pleaded with you guys to give EVOLUTION another chance despite the mishaps that took place. I promised that things would see a complete 180 turn around and this time I am emailing to let you know that that promise has not changed.

The feedback that we recieved was phenomenal and what was even more heartwarming was the fact that most of you admitted to having a great time on the road despite all of the mishaps.
However, we have taken all of the feedback, good and bad, and have seriously considered every point in the restructure and redevelopment of the band.

Evolution carnival 2009 promises to be bigger and a whole lot better than before. The band has gotten rid of all its weak links and is now being run by a Brand new committee and with a brand new attitude. Super hot costumes, excellent service on the road and a hassle free distribution is in store for all of you. Overall we guarantee the ultimate all - Inclusive experience to you our cherished masqueraders.

I too am stepping up to the plate...... yes people, your girl Shynnelle, is bringing out a section in the band. I figured, what better way to make things right than by getting fully involved and bringing out a stellar section within an even more stellar Band. So I have teamed up with the Band Leader, Mr. Curtis Eustace, and together we are going to ensure that we make it up to you all......with perfection and in true Shynnelle style.

Next year's theme for the Band is TEMPTATIONS......and yes the costumes look as good as the name sounds.....
My section... "SECRETS AND LIES"..... will be DIVALICIOUSLY SEXY...... so look out for it at the launch, which is scheduled for the beginning of July. But have no fear, because I will personally email you photos of the costume as soon as is possible and keep you abreast of all scheduled Evolution events.

As a separate thanks to anyone who registers with my section, an extra special token will be given upon registration.

Well that's it for now....... I'll be keeping in touch.......

In the meantime, please email me with any questions and you know I will be more than happy to answer any of them.......... or you can contact me at 740-0838 at any time.

Talk to you soon!!
Take care!!
Shynnelle
 

Putting your breast fit forward…

The time is nearing for Band Launch Season with the first showing of costumes allegedly starting as early as next month! As we all anticipate the fabulous costumes to come, I hope that band leaders will put some measures in place to deal with the “bra situation”.

First I will commend the bands that did have bras for potential masqueraders to try on and fit at the mas camp; this came in especially helpful to those bras sized as S, M, L, XL as those ladies fortunate to be able to access the fitting at the mas camp were able to get their correct size. Surprisingly, TRIBE has not offered bra fittings for the past two years, hence the reason one masquerader this year ordered the bra size they wore two years ago and ended up with the WRONG size!

Unfortunately she was not the only masquerader I noticed wearing a regular bra under their costume bra! Now, I can chastise the masquerader for not attempting an exchange or some sort of costume adjustment upon costume collection however, I think TRIBE should seriously consider bringing back the bra trials prior to registration. In the past, this helped greatly as masqueraders were able to choose the proper sized costume bra, since depending on bra size alone is risky as many women wear the incorrect bra size and costume bras tend to fit different to regular bras.

The second change I hope will be implemented is allowing masqueraders to choose their bra by actual bra sizes instead of the grouping several cup sizes into S, M, L, XL etc. While the ladies who can actually try on their bras in person are not affected by this sizing structure, the ones who are not privy to bra fittings, such as overseas masqueraders, are left having to choose a size based on an erroneous sizing chart! While choosing by bra size does run some risk of bras not fitting properly owing to the fact that, as I mentioned before, some ladies wear the wrong bra size, it is much less of a risk than trying to fit an A cup and a DD cup under the heading of a Medium costume!

Of course if a perfect size chart can be invented that accurately sizes a S, M, L, XL (etc) costume bra then this system can probably work, instead of having a masquerader end up on the road spilling out of their utterly divalicious costume:

Finally, we masqueraders also have some responsibility in getting a properly fitted bra. If you wear a special size and do not trust the bras provided for the costume, contact the mas camp and ask if you can supply your own bra; most are willing to work with you on this request once it is submitted within a reasonable timeframe. Also, when you collect your costume, make sure and try it on as soon as you can to make sure it fits properly. Now, there is no guarantee that you can get the bra exchanged, though this has happened before, but if your band offers a costume adjustment center they can usually make alterations to the bra, like adding extra fabric, so that it fits well enough. Some bands, time permitting, even allow you to bring in a bra of your own at this point where they will transfer the decorations from the ill fitting bra unto the new one for you.

Worse case scenario involves you, the new undecorated bra and a glue gun removing the decorations from the problem bra and transferring it to the new bra YOURSELF. I have been there, done that and though it was a lot of work I was pleased with the end result as it meant my bra actually FIT instead of being a wardrobe malfunction disaster waiting to happen.

More Changes for Carnival 2009..........

Some familiar faces will be sporting a different T Shirt come band launching season for 2009 Carnival!Follow the trail of this Section Leader/Designer........................

August 2006


September 2006


2007


2008


2009


PHOTO SOURCE: www.triniscene.com

Elements "Freedom Package"

So this is the offering for Elements 2009:

Elements Freedom Package

In ELEMENTS carnival band, options are unlimited. For those who don’t want the burden of walking with cash, we have the Luxury All Inclusive Option where everything is included. For those who want to support the man on the street and purchase their own drinks, we have the Non All Inclusive Option with Meals Included. For those who want the Non All Inclusive Option but want the intimacy of being involved in a drinks cart with their close friends, we have the Cart Option. Of course the latter two options would be cheaper. Masqueraders will have the freedom to roam the band no matter what option they choose. In Elements, we are ALL AS ONE.

The Luxury All Inclusive Option:
Luxury premium bar with unlimited flow of Non-alcoholic and Alcoholic drinks
Lunch on both days
Breakfast snack on Tuesday
Shuttle service with DVD screens
Mobile Relax Stations with DVD screens
Mobile Restrooms
Photographers
Security
Costume

The Non All Inclusive Option (Food Inclusive)
Includes everything as in the Luxury All Inclusive Option except excess to the luxury premium bar

The Cart Option (Includes everything as in the Non All Inclusive Option)
This option is control by private section managers of Non Inclusive sections.

For more info, contact the Elements at elementscarnival@gmail.com

I am guessing it is a freedom of choice for those who want different elements when it comes to the provision of the all-inclusive amenities. The concept is interesting, albeit, I found the similar set up too restrictive in Poison so I will like to see how they manage to allow masqueraders the freedom to roam the band. Is it just me or does the motto "All as one" remind you of the three musketeers? Personally, I am yet to see one of "me" represented on their curiously "pale" committee!

SOURCE: Elements Facebook Page

Bacchanal Mas Sold Out Sections...

Two of Bacchanal Mas' four sections are sold out for their Notting Hill Carnival presentation "Paradise". The sections Temptation and Fools Paradise are SOLD OUT.

In addition, Bird of Paradise frontline costumes are gone too! The remaining sections are Heaven Scent and Bird of Paradise (back line). If sales continue along this trend, a new section may be launched in June. I was not aware that costumes for Notting Hill Carnival, three months away, went so fast!

The Sauce of Much Controversy!

"Don't ever feel compelled to supply ignorant people with an explanation!"

Thanks for your words Melanese!

Caribana Band Launchings Kicks Off...

The first band launch of the Caribana Carnival season, "The Magic of the Zodiac" presented by Calalloo, took place this weekend and launch photos can be seen on toronto-lime.com. From the photographs I cannot decipher which costumes represents which Zodiac sign,so I am patiently awaiting the website's update as there are 9 sections...but 12 Zodiac signs...hmmm.

Next up:
Saturday May 10th, 2008
TORONTO REVELLERS BAND LAUNCH
2008 Presentation: "ALKE'BULAN"

Whining Season??????

So, I was checking out some upcoming Carnivals in Florida, Orlando and Tampa to be exact, and stumbled upon a flyer for a fete in Tampa:

There are two issues I have with this flyer, the first one also extends itself to many advertisements, whether by flyer or website, for several of these international Carnivals that have popped up. Why do they use costumes from Trinidad Carnival, case in point with this flyer is the two Harts models? If you are advertising YOUR state or country's Carnival why not use photographs of costumed masqueraders from the previous year? That always annoys me a bit, when I see an advertisement for a Carnival and lo and behold there are costumes from Island People as in the Orlando Carnival website. Take a page from the website for Philly Carnival and showcase actual masqueraders so that people, like myself, who have never been can get a feel for what the festival is about.

Second issue I have is with the word WHINING, like that is so TOTALLY not the way the word is spelt in context to Carnival and fetes!! "To wine, if you don’t know, is to move your hips and waist in a “winding” motion, hence the name", that is a quote from Lisa Allen Agostini when I wrote all about wining in a post entitled "Show Meh How Yuh Does Wine", the article is a good read for those who are unclear of what WINING is.

The definition of "WHINING":
*long and high-pitched like a whine or plaintive crying
* fretful: habitually complaining; "a whining child"

Please, please, please somebody give these "foreigners" a copy of Cote Ci Cote La, the Trinidad Dictionary! It really irks me when the word WHINE is used to describe a Trini Wine..steups!

Crop Over Events Calender

Click on photo for larger view


Click on photo for larger view

Legacy for Borough Day

LEGACY FOR PT. FORTIN BOROUGH DAY - SATURDAY MAY 3rd 2008!!!

Did you to keep your Legacy 2008 costume? You can be a part of the excitement
for Borough Day with Legacy - all-inclusive free drinks, big 40' music trailer with
popular DJs and radio personalities, shuttle buses leaving Legacy Mas Camp at 10:30am.

If you don't have a Legacy costume, you can still be a part. Everyone must pre-register
at Legacy Mas Camp. Call 622-7466 for more information!

SOURCE: www.legacycarnival.com

D.C. Carnival 2008

Here are two more offerings for D.C. Carnival 2008 from bands Basement Knokers, who launched recently, and the brand new band making it's debut WeFete:

Basement Knokers - "Mas for All Seasons"









WeFete - "Global Warming"

Co2 - $160.00


Global Warming - $160.00


Going Green - $160.00


Mother Nature - $160.00


You can get more information on both bands by visiting the links!

Carnival 2009 Presentations - Updated

Amended to add the name of both TRIBE and Elements' 2009 presentations:

*TRIBE - Birds of a Feather
* Brian Mac Farlane — Africa
* Ronnie & Caro — Bakkanal
* Island People Mas — Heaven & Earth
* Trini Revellers — Sweet TnT...Tribute to T&T
* Genesis — Glitz & Glamour of Vegas
* Legacy — Shanghai Dream
* D’Krewe — Iere
* Masquerade — Let the Music Play
* We People International — Paradisio
*Pulse 8 - Hot, Hot, Hot!
*Element - Casino Royale

More Mas, More Choice?

According to information reaching me, masqueraders for 2009 will be afforded even more choice when it comes to selecting a Carnival Band. The first, of several, new bands Element, introduced themselves formally to the public on Tuesday night, promising to bring back the non inclusive and all inclusive options that were a hallmark of big band Poison. Also set to make a debut in 2009, according to news reaching me, is a new band falling under the banner of “Red Ants and Drunky Munky” two entitles also affiliated with TRIBE. Sources say that this band will be non-inclusive with the option for drink carts, a system that has been in place at Harts Mas Camp for over 10 years to much success.

My take on the rising prices of mas is that there has always been choice; choice to either pay what the popular bands are asking or to look for an alternative band to play with. Harts has basically offered the drinks or cart option for years, an ideology that their masqueraders have fully supported. Either you pay for drinks or buy them at your own discretion In addition to Harts there are numerous small bands like the Indian Band that adopted hubby on Carnival Tuesday, their concept being make your own costume and pay a fee for only food and drink all inclusive package. This year masqueraders also saw new bands We International, D Krewe and Evolution debut with relatively “cheap” costumes notwithstanding any birthing pains their masqueraders had to endure.

I am quite anxious for band launching season to begin, if only to see the costs of these new, non inclusive bands’ costumes and the effect that will have on pricing for the “luxury inclusive bands”. Something tells me that with more of these cheaper options available the exclusivity of the”luxury all inclusive” will be further exacerbated by price! One cannot now say that the costumes of ONE band are too expensive when no one is holding you hostage to play with them and there are several other options available for more affordable costumes, now can they? What makes the situation even more interesting is that where once the cheaper costumes came out of mas camps that may not necessarily drum up a hype of being the new, “hot” band to play with, based on the “whos who” of who is backing bands like Element they are poised to market themselves as an “IT” band and have people seriously considering jumping ship.

Offering the non all-inclusive option for mas bands will surely affect the pricing of costumes, and with every type of product and service rising in price in Trinidad, as well as globally, this may be a brilliant marketing scheme by band leaders to give consumers what they have been asking for; cheaper prices while placating the ones who are drawn to the idea that they will pay more for an ultimate experience! It remains to be seen, however, if price alone is what entices masqueraders to play with one band over the other in the ever more competitive business of mas which is driven more by hype, in my estimation, than rationale.

Carnival Nationz Band Launch

May 24th , Solarium @Polson Pier, check out the flyer for more details:

click for larger view

Carnival 2009 Update.. TRIBE and Island People!

Gosh, I ran into one of the "people in the know" about Island People at Element’s party and was told some of what “Heaven on Earth” will entail, but, the thing is the person could not remember any of the section names so this is to be taken with some reservation. I was told that the Heaven on Earth theme will delve into Earthly pleasures; some of the sections are named after food like chocolate, sexual desires and lust! Protoypes of costumes have already been made and I believe they are due for screening soon. From what I was told there will not be any Angels, like people have been speculating, as the theme has to do with heavenly things on Earth..right!

As for TRIBE I also met one of the designers at Element’s launch (so much for keeping the TRIBERs out) and got some information on costumes; prototypes of costumes are already done, as was screening and I keep hearing that the costumes are gorgeous!! I also heard possible section names and colour combinations but that will all be revealed in time… I will say there is definitely a green section next year as well as purple&white and that there will most likely be a Humming Bird and Scarlet Ibis Section !

5 Cent Airfare to Trinidad!

I got this email from Redtide (remember the sexy Mc Farlane masquerader who gave us his review post Carnival?)

Just wanted to give your fellow bloggers a heads up that I just bought a ticket from Ft. Ladudale FL to Port of Spain for 5 cent round trip on Sprit Airlines. With taxes it came up to $150ish to think it cost me $110 to fill up my SUV with gas .........this sale wont last long you know we Trini will tell everybody and they granny

Now you know I had to check out the airline and IT IS TRUE!!!! I priced a one week stay, leaving from NY (La Guardia) on Wednesday February18th and returning Wednesday February25th 2009 and it came up to $483.30US. Flights are to/from FLL, Orlando, NY, Washington, Detroit among other destinations. Check the link HERE.

Announcing New Service to Port of Spain, Trinidad
With Introductory Fares From 5¢ Each Way!

Spirit Airlines announces non-stop service between Fort Lauderdale and Port of Spain, Trinidad beginning June 12, 2008. To celebrate this exciting announcement, Spirit is offering fares as low as 5¢* each way! All fares are each way, based on a roundtrip purchase and taxes, fees & restrictions apply.

Advertised, date-specific fares must be booked on spiritair.com by 11:59 PM ET on April 23, 2008 for travel on the dates as specified by individual market and by market direction. All other fares must be booked on spiritair.com by April 25, 2008 for travel Tuesdays and Wednesdays between June 14, 2008 and October 31, 2008. Please see the terms and conditions for complete restrictions and details.

Get on this one fast people, because there is a deadline!!! I am so excited! Going to check out a fare to Orlando in August!!

And it was revealed.....

So, I made it to Element’s “Introduction Party” last evening and, as predicted it did turn out to be quite an interesting night indeed! First off, when I pulled up to 51 Degrees, a TRIBE billboard greeted me announcing their 2009 presentation:

Since I had heard about this billboard prior to arriving at 51, all I did was chuckle at the timing of this display’s appearance as only a few weeks ago the billboard was still announcing TRIBE’s Ignite Carnival Thursday fete from February of this year.

We had no problems entering the invitation only soirée, and upon seeing a member of Element’s committee dressed in the band’s official wear, the hubby remarked that the logo looked QUITE familiar; you be the judge:

The night started off late, as we were as well, since we were to arrive at 8 but the presentation did not come until two hours later. Meanwhile I was observing those who turned out to the event, including Howard Chin Lee, popular party promoters, and many a familiar face from TRIBE/Red Ants sporting Element wear!

Now, I have been hinting about this “parting of ways” between certain members of TRIBE since last week, and I did tell you that all will be revealed soon. Well, even though I had heard all the stories of who had been dismissed and who left/defected, it was still a surprise to learn that the band leader of Element is Douglas John, as though I had heard he was no longer with TRIBE , previously another name was given to me as Element's band leader by my ever industrious informants. For those of you who are not blessed with an elephant memory as me, Douglas was the designer responsible for TRIBE’s frontline costumes as well as production of their headpieces for 2008.

After I got over this surprise, the other team members were revealed, including ex Atlantis girl/TRIBE committee member Charlene Lum Wai , Jodi Herde ( both now Production Managers for Element) as well as section leaders Giselle Berkeley, Corrine Camacho, Natasha Ali, Candace Imam, Cindy Javier (all girls section) Eyes Wide Shut , Red Hoes, Jodi Littlepage and Jamboree among others. The makeup of this committee is supposed to exemplify the band’s motto of “All as One” I suppose. Truth be told, the composition leans itself over to the side of Harts albeit I am thinking that segment of the Carnival population is not the target audience for Element, however.

Prior to Douglas John’s introduction as band leader, we got a preview of the Element Logo via a short movie of sorts, and the logo looks exactly like the “elements” used in the movie 5th Element, which by the way is one of my favourite movies and one that I have seen countless times so it was quite easy to identify the “Earth”, “Water”, “Wind” and “Fire” symbols that have now been “borrowed” by this band; I guess the masqueraders are the 5th Element??

Element Logo


Stones from the movie 5th Element

Anyway, to the good stuff, what Element is all about:

*Options for masqueraders in that the band will offer Luxury All Inclusive costume package, All Inclusive with lunch only and All Inclusive with a drinks cart. Now, I really do not want to seem like I am picking on this new band but I had to question a committee member when I heard of this new offering if they were sure that Element is not the rumored TRIBE 2 as the non inclusiveness sounds very much like the rumored second band that was supposed to be managed by TRIBE for Carnival 2009! I was told, emphatically that Element is completely divorced from TRIBE, ok then!

*In spite of having these tiers of costume packages, masqueraders will be free to roam all over the band, with which ever costume package one chooses.

*The band will be catering for no more than 3000 masqueraders.

*Costume prices will be the CHEAPEST available as they have sourced materials that are not the standard “beads and sequins” which is promised to offer the masquerader nouveau costumes (as told by a committee member).

*There will be 12 sections in the band.

Well that was all I was able to gather from the nights events and speaking with committee members, I even managed to get some info on TRIBE and Island People’s presentations, but of course that will be revealed at another time. My feelings on Element you ask? Well, based on who I see on their committee and the persons who showed up for “support”, i.e to macco, if they play their cards right and do indeed deliver stellar costumes at cheap prices they might just well offer some good competition for 2009. The idea of the All Inclusive and Non Inclusive living harmoniously in one band reminds me of Poison; however the cart business reeks of Harts don’t you think?

All in all, like I said, it was an INTERESTING night and I leave you with some video clips of the presentation, where you can hear it all straight from the horse’s mouth.. enjoy!

Douglas Speaks...


Charlene's vote of thanks...

DO NOT FORGET TO CHECK CARNIVAL JUMBIE'S BLOG FOR HER TAKE ON THE NIGHTS EVENTS.

From Marrakesh to the Amazon

Pulse 8 2008
Gem Traders


Panisha Mas (D.C. Carnival) 2008
Amazon Sunrise

Hey, Carnival is a year long business and you got to get rid of the costumes that did not sell right? Check out Panisha's website for more costumes from their 2008 D.C. Carnival presentation "A Brazilian Dream".

The place to be tonight....

By invitation ONLY:

I know many people are waiting patiently to see what this new band "Element" has in store for Carnival 2009 ; looking forward to the "introduction party" for what I am sure will be a very interesting evening.

P.S. Please do not think you can copy the invite, the real thing is not plain black and white!

Solid International Costumes

Here is a sneak peek from Antigua Carnival Band "Solid International's" photo shoot for their 2008 presentation "Enchanted Paradise", for more information on costumes email toxic9tantrum@hotmail.com:

Tropical Sunset

Birds of Paradise

Mystical Rainbow

Fantail Gold Fish

Dragon Fly

Yellow Breasted Songbird

Butterfly Fantasy

Island People