Disappointment at Night of Pan

It was to be a grand occasion where three living legends of pan were to be honoured by the Emancipation Support Committee and several top steel orchestras were carded to perform. Pan inventor/innovator Anthony Williams was on hand to collect his award but had to be rushed off for medical attention. Another pan legend, Ray Holman, was absent while the third, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, was on hand to collect his award.

Pannists and patrons were complaining about the way the show was organised. One band captain complained that bands were positioned under tents, so only people who were able to force themselves in front of the performing band were able to see anything, leaving hundreds to stand around and listen to the sound system, or just engage in conversation.

When it came to the pan performances, Sidiki Sticks on Steel were exceptional so too was bptt Renegades with a sterling rendition of Brother Marvin’s “Carnival Time Again”.

Pat Bishop and the Lydians with Steel also provided great entertainment as the choir used the massive stage provided so everyone could view their performance. PCS Starlift and Couva Joylanders provided patrons with enjoyable music but the night truly belonged to reigning Panorama champions Phase 11 Pan Groove.

Led by Boogsie, Phase 11’s performance of “Volare” had patrons dancing. They also performed “Trini To The Bone”, “Moon River”, “Government Boots”, and their winning Panorama tune, “This One’s Four Bradley”.