Parade of the Bands turns into a slow crawl Downtown

As the Parade of Bands began yesterday in Downtown Port-of-Spain, bands  were few and far in between as only two of the bigges Carnival bands crossed the judging point on South Quay within the space of three hours.

First to cross yesterday was Barbarosa at approximately 1.30 pm. Patrons in the downtown stands seemed eager to begin viewing the colourful display, as they had begun filling the stands from as early as 11 am. Penny Afong, wife of Barbarosa’s bandleader Richard Afong, revealed that the 14-section band was comprised of some 2,500 masqueraders. As the masqueraders “chipped” along to the music, Penny Afong watched from the sidelines to ensure that everything ran smoothly. She also stated that the band contained five music trucks, which included two live bands — Traffik with Faye Ann Lyons and Naya George, and Island Vibe. Following Barbarosa was the mini band “Sioux Festival.” Persons hustling to find a band stopped to watch, enthralled as the Apache Indians performed their dances accompanied by the occasional war cries.

Port-of-Spain Mayor Murchison Brown received the US Ambassador Roy Austin and family, as they too wished to take in the sights and sounds of Carnival 2003. Crossing at 2.30 pm and taking a half hour to cross the judging point, was one of the favorites — Legends. Their presentation for this year, Bedazzled, was led by the 2003 King and Queen of Carnival, Curtis Eustace and Alana Ward, in their masterpieces “The Sky Is The Limit” and “A Fire In The Sky” respectively. Leading the rest of the band was Juliet de la Bastide, while bandleaders Mike Antoine and Ian McKenzie directed the eager masqueraders.  Music for the 16 sections is being provided by Square One, Triple X, Sound FX and a popular DJ.

Masqueraders thoroughly enjoyed themselves yesterday, despite the scorching sun, and were guaranteed personal safety as the band boasts some 325 security personnel, stated Mike Antoine. Questioned as to whether they were confident that they could cop the title of Band of the Year, Antoine replied that this was all Legends had been working towards, in addition to staying on top. “I am confident that we will win” concluded Antoine, who appeared to be relaxed and happy.