Gabriel: Let NCBA run the Carnival

VETERAN children’s bandleader Roslyn Gabriel believes that the responsibility of hosting Carnival activities should lie with the bandleaders, as they “know what is needed for Carnival.” Gabriel spoke to the media at the National Carnival Commission (NCC) Sunshine Snacks Junior Carnival 2003 prize giving function which was held at the Trinidad Hilton yesterday. Gabriel was the bandleader who successfully challenged, in the courts, the judging system of this year’s senior Carnival competitions, resulting in no prizes being distributed. Revealing that she is a member of the National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA), Gabriel added that  “Doctors and lawyers  have their own associations, so that I feel that is where the responsibility for the Carnival should be.” Describing the five awards she won at yesterday’s celebration as “the icing on the cake,” Gabriel said it was always nice to be rewarded after working so hard. Picking up her seventh consecutive title in the category of Junior Band of the Year — Open Large with the theme “Melting Pot,” Gabriel admitted that she had not yet decided on a theme for next year’s competition.

However, she assured persons that she would be back next year, adding that plans were already in place. The four other awards collected by Gabriel included Best Creative Topical Band; Spirit of Carnival — Non Large School; Costume Design — Large Non School; and Junior Non School Band of the Year — Open Large. Delivering the feature address was Minister of Culture and Tourism Minister Penelope Beckles, who began by first thanking NCC’s Chairman Kenny De Silva for his astute leadership and commitment to this year’s Carnival proceedings. Not forgetting the mas leaders and band players, Beckles said these persons were responsible for maintaining the creativity and gaiety of Carnival. Acknowledging that this year’s celebrations were extremely challenging for the NCC and especially De Silva, Beckles attributed his recent illness to his dedication to ensuring that Carnival ran smoothly, as well as subsequent court battles with the NCBA. She congratulated De Silva on what she termed “the best carnival ever” and noted the smooth running of the Parade of the Bands, and the improved Dimanche Gras show. Claiming that this year’s celebrations were virtually crime free, despite some challenges, she implored band leaders to continue showcasing the artistic abilities of TT. Beckles concluded by urging other corporate entities to take advantage of the 150 percent tax incentive being offered by government, to companies willing to sponsor any kind of cultural activity.