Symphony of pride: Cultural icons in star-studded Independence concert

A cascade of fireworks lit up the night sky as the Pride of Nationhood Independence Concert climaxed on Thursday.

As internationally acclaimed soca star Rupee’s I Am a Bajan echoed through the air in the closing moments, the sense of patriotism was palpable. The star-studded cast celebrated the contributions of loyal sons and daughters of the soil and their enduring legacy.

Fittingly opening his session with Las Mas, Rupee maintained a tone of remembrance, paying tribute to members of the creative community who have died in the last year.

Among those honoured for their contributions to the arts was the late entertainment icon Richard Stoute. Leading the tribute to the maestro were the frontrunners of the 2024 Richard Stoute Teen Talent Contest. Winner Kenaz Bit Bit Walker delivered a polished performance of his winning entry Vehicle, while second-place finisher Kyrique Alleyne demonstrated his finesse with You No Good. Teen talent alum Romancia Murray sang Pity the Fool, and Jamal Slocombe captured the essence of another recently deceased crooner, the golden-voiced Rudy Boyce, with his stirring rendition of One More Time with Feeling.

Tributes extended to the discipline of dance, with Gene Carson Small and Tyrone Trotman’s immense contributions to the art form recognised through performances by Dancin’ Africa. Dance was also used to commemorate American political trailblazer Shirley Chisholm’s early educational journey in Barbados, with Riddim Tribe delivering a powerful piece. Her historic impact was further honoured in Praise Song for Shirley Chisholm, a poem by Esther Phillips.

Shadia Marshall took on the challenge of honouring global pop giant and National Hero, the Right Excellent Robyn Rihanna Fenty, delivering convincing performances of Love on the Brain and Please Don’t Stop the Music.
Instrumentalists played a significant role in celebrating all things Bajan. The Barbados National Youth Orchestra performed a selection of Irving Burgie compositions.

Saxophonist Romaro Greaves delivered high-calibre performances throughout the night, including a standout pairing with Alix Cage for Mark Lord’s My Country to Me. Greaves also electrified the audience with his collaboration with pannist Andre Forde for a Gabby medley. The energy spilt beyond the stage as the pan group Tuking Around, atop a music truck, energised the roadside crowd with lively soca favourites. Adding to the excitement was Iz A Vybe.

Cricket, an integral part of Bajan culture, was showcased with a vibrant performance by the ICC Cricket Dancers, led by high-energy flagperson Justin Poleon. Dressed in striking red and yellow costumes, the troupe captivated the audience with synchronised movements to a medley of Lil Rick hits. Winston Farrell’s witty wordplay in his cricket-themed poem added a literary flair to the festivities.

The 50th anniversary of Crop Over was marked with a nostalgic flashback to the past and a celebration of the present. Reigning Pic-o-de-Crop Monarch Adrian Clarke entertained with Nice Time and Going Fuh Crown, while RPB thrilled with Mr Harding and Something’s Happening. TC delighted the audience with Victory and Paradise, Tae performed Bajan Ting, and blind artiste Mr DJ showcased his social commentary, My Other Senses.

The sporting achievements of top athletes, including track and field Olympian Sada Williams and women’s cricket star Hayley Matthews, were recognised through powerhouse performances by Casheda Dottin of Conqueror and Roar.

Adding a unique touch to the night, Shanika Roach delivered an operatic rendition of Panis Angelicus, while Chelsea Cadogan sang Beautiful Barbados. Abianna Fenty appeared ethereal in a sequinned white dress during her jazzy renditions of Over the Rainbow and Emmerton. Fellow vocalist Israel Allen impressed with his powerful delivery of And Can It Be and Every Time I Feel the Spirit, prompting one audience member to remark: “That young boy can sing.”

The cast also featured 2 Mile Hill frontwoman Mahalia Cummins with patriotic standards I Say B, God Bless Bim, and I Am a Barbadian. The Mas Folk Choir also entertained with a delightful folk medley.  (STT)