More children play mas

The 17th annual Sunshine Snacks parade of the bands yesterday saw a proliferation of nationalistic themes with TT’s heritage on display before the crowds which gathered in the North and Grand stands.

Chairman of the National Carnival Commission Kenny De Silva expressed satisfaction with the parade, which had a quick flow of bands across the stage. Due to last week’s court ruling which gave the National Carnival Commission charge of the parade after a five-year hiatus during which the National Carnival Bands Association managed the event, bands were allowed to register on the spot. The NCBA had handed over all information relating to bands who had registered with it before the court judgement. As registration was still open, NCC officials were unable to say how many bands would be registered. Education Minister Hazel Manning declared the parade open at 9.55 am and also urged the young revellers to be careful even as they had fun. The parade was led by Sunshine Snacks new mascot “Snackie”.

The first band to cross the stage was “Catch Me If you Can” in the small band category, led by its queen portraying “Crazy Keyboard.” In close succession across the stage were St Bernadette’s Prep ‘Indianation” a portrayal of American Indians dressed in a variety of colours, and non-school presentation “I Wish I May, I Wish I Might” showcasing children’s wishes in costumes titled “I wanna be a ballerina”, “I wanna be a pop singer.” Several bands touted the local heritage such as Progressive Kindergarten’s “The Population/Real Unity” which highlighted the races in TT; Santa Cruz RC School “Caribbean Flavour”, Carapichaima RC portrayed “Cruising Through TT”, and Sharon’s Nursery with “Happy Birthday TT.” Popular bandleader Roslind Gabriel did not disappoint with her 2003 portrayal of “Melting Pot” which showcased aspects of TT’s history.