A benefit concert for Sharon Darlington

by Charmaine Walker

For the past three decades, Sharon Darlington has been singing on the world stage. From her 1991 win of the Richard Stoute Teen Talent competition with songs by Shirley Bassey “This is my Life” and “Never, Never, Never” to her world travels with Krosfyah and even entertaining hundreds, if not thousands, of cruise ship passengers for more than five years, Sharon has written her name on Barbados’ entertainment pages.

From nightclubs in St. Lawrence Gap to the banquet rooms of hotels across the island, Sharon was always sure to bring satisfaction to all those she entertained.

Her dedication to music did come at a cost as she was forced to take a vocal rest after 30 years in the business back in 2018. She cited that she needed to take a step back and take time for herself.

For the past eight months, like many across the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic has curtailed the way of life for the singer/entertainer with the closure of hotels and nightclubs and the suspension of cruises. Her steady stream of income has almost but disappeared, and Sharon is now facing another challenge, this time in the form of cervical cancer.

With the recent diagnosis, Sharon has been an outpatient of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. At a recent routine medical visit, it was discovered additional treatment would be needed outside of Barbados to allow a second chance at life.

Through this journey, Sharon’s faith in God has blossomed and flourished, and at 47 years old while in Canada last year she gave her life to God.

With the help of her former mentor and founder of the Richard Stoute Teen Talent Competition Richard Stoute, a benefit concert will be held this Sunday, December 13 at Solidarity House to raise funds for much needed medical assistance for Darlington.

The concert starts at 7 p.m.

Stoute lauded Darlington for her contribution to the music industry and her commitment to Barbados during her travels across the world. He said several local artistes had expressed their willingness to be a part of the concert including: Tamara Marshall, Trinity Clarke, Sherry Boyce, Alison Hinds, Ronnie Morris, Krystal Austin, Diana Price, Rasheda Codington, Shawntey Alleyne-Clarke, Wayne Jackman, Rickey Aimey, Barry Chandler, Wille Kerr and Terry ‘Mexican’ Arthur, Henderson Quimby, the Most Honourable Anthony “Gabby” Carter, Jalliesa Edwards, Darrian Grant, Lavern Smith, Anderson “Blood” Armstrong, Shirley Stewart, Kiann Browne, Troy Arthur- Shaw, Betty Griffith-Payne and Chad Bowen.

The show is free to the public. However, a donation of $20 or what patrons can afford is being requested upon entry with all proceeds going directly to Sharon’s medical expenses.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the wearing of masks will be enforced and social distancing observed. Stoute called on Barbadians to come out on Sunday to the event and to be supportive of Darlington in her time of need. (CW)