Kiddies shine at Parade of Bands

Over one hundred children mas bands crossed the Queen’s Park Savannah stage yesterday during the Sunshine Snacks Junior Parade of Bands 2004. Regardless of the size, all the masquerading kids merrily jumped to some of the more popular 2004 calypsos such as Destra’s “Bonnie and Clyde,” “De Band Coming” from Shurwayne Winchester, “Insane” by Machel Montano, Blazer’s “Stages,” Faye Ann Lyons’ “Freedom” and “Clear De Road”, and Iwer George’s “Father” Among those creating a great impact on the audience in the large band category were Roslyn Gabriel’s “Nah Leavin”, OC. Hinds’ “Let’s Go.” “Pirates of Port-of-Spain” and Rosary Boys’ “Our Wetlands — Turn of the Tide”.

The latter portrayal included the Scarlet Ibis in flight, crabs and bird watchers, much to the delight of the audience. In the medium category, D’Midas and Associates’ portrayal of “The Valley of D Nile had pretty elaborate individual costumes, while Classix Productions’ “The Treasure Trail” and “Fashion Fusion” by the Mon Repos RC were quite dazzling. What was very noticeable during the parade this year and really a pleasure was how the children refrained from lewd behaviour as had been the case over the years.

However the late start to the event caused the parade to finish at least half hour later than anticipated, having ended at 3.35 pm. Richard Afong, Chairman of the National Carnival Bandleaders Association under whose jurisdiction the show fell told Sunday Newsday that the reason for the late start was that they were waiting for the police to clear the road for the children’s safety but was satisfied that the band flowed freely once they started at 10.20 am. As regards the preparation for the venue for the National Panorama finals last night, Afong said additional people were hired to get the venue ready on time for the pan show and didn’t foresee any undue delay in starting that event.