Dream Mas’: New vision for Crop Over 2025

In a dazzling display of creativity and ambition, the Dream Mas’ band has burst onto the Crop Over scene, promising to revolutionise Barbados’ beloved festival.

With six tantalising sections and a target of 600 revellers, this newcomer is set to make waves in the 2025 season.

At Tuesday night’s exclusive media launch at the Limegrove penthouse, specially invited guests were treated to a sneak peek of Eden, one of the six sections of Dare to Dream.

The other sections are Opulence, Freedom, Wild Heart, Erotica, and Fete. The band has set a target of 600 members for the festival.

Dream Team Entertainment, which is behind the venture, has already been making its presence felt on the entertainment scene, successfully staging three consecutive Summa Fests. Director Stevenson Belle said: “In addition to Summa Fest, we have also been instrumental in powering the return of the Hennessy Artistry 2022 coming out of the COVID pandemic and lockdown.”

Their achievements also include partnering with Ticketlinkz for the Barbados Reggae Weekend.

“Turning the page into 2024, we got our first taste at participating in our wonderful Crop Over Festival where we had the section Sorrel and Ginger in the mas’ band Vida by Esquire, which won band of the year, Belle added. “We are relatively a young brand, but nonetheless a brand with ambition, a brand with vision, new ideas, and most of all a brand that dares to dream.”

With We Gatherin’ activities having begun Belle said: “With everyone coming together to showcase the best of who we are as a nation and as a people, Dream Mas’ the Band is proud to be part of this wonderful festival.”

Creative Director Rawle Permanand expressed his excitement: “Tonight we celebrate the birth of a whole new chapter in the Dream Mas’ experience.

“This project came into a vision, a dream, just under a year ago. Let’s embark on a shared journey of pleasure, fantasy and unforgettable festivities as we gear up for an extraordinary season ahead.”

Ricardo Smith, commercial manager of spirits at Stansfeld Scott, announced: “We are thrilled to announce that Piper Heidsieck Champagne, Stoli Vodka, and Grant’s Whiskey are the official sponsors of this year’s Dream Mas’ 2025 for Crop Over.

“This partnership blends the vibrant energy of Barbados’ premier festival with the excellence of these distinguished brands, promising an unforgettable experience for all revellers.”

Detailing what can be expected on the road, Smith said: “Let’s enjoy specially curated cocktails and drinks from all three brands crafted to enhance your festival experience.

“We are confident that this partnership will elevate the Crop Over experience, offering you unparalleled enjoyment and creating unforgettable moments.”

President of the Barbados Association of Masqueraders Bryan Worrell remarked: “Crop Over welcomes all new participants as we need as many new bands as possible to keep growing the product, so I am very thankful for you guys coming on board being part of the team and we look forward to your presentation here tonight.”

Teasing upcoming events, team member Brian Corbin said: “We are going to take it back to what bands used to be back in the day.”

The full launch of Dream Mas’ is scheduled for February 15.

(STT)