Boogsie and Phase II wow Dortmund with pan

“Trini to the Bone,” “Meh Lover,” the “Mission Impossible” theme song and “Exodus” were among the popular melodies played by the band, in the Fan Fest in the city’s main square. Showing their support for our national instrument and our team, a series of local, cultural stars including Rikki Jai, Kes Dieffenthaler, Calypso Rose and H2O Flo, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Culture and the Tourism Development Company Limited (TDC) were present, spreading team spirit.

Trinidad and Tobago’s supporters were distinctly identifiable in red caps and hand-held flags, among the crowd, which also included fans from Sweden, Brazil and Germany. The spirit of the local supporters was infectious as allegiances from international fans were temporarily switched to Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors. “Our culture and particularly our national instrument, the steel pan, has always been able to astound those who hear it and see it being played. With our pan virtuoso Boogsie leading the band, the audience was riveted.

“In the Fan Fest, which is constantly a centre of attention, this performance has certainly given value-added exposure to Trinidad and Tobago and drummed up support in the city for our Warriors, and by extension our country” commented Dr James Hepple, President and Director of Tourism, TDC.

The TDC is operating its Soca Caravan information booth in the Westfallenhallen City Centre, adjacent to the Dortmund Stadium. The booth, which neighbours the Dortmund Press Centre, will serve as a base from which information about Trinidad and Tobago will be disseminated. More than 3,000 media representatives are expected to be stationed in the press centre.

In addition to information dissemination, the booth will also house information about business and trade in Trinidad and Tobago. Another primary feature of the booth will be the daily cultural performances which will also attract visitors. The Soca Caravan moves to Nuremberg on June 12.