‘Vanishing Tribes’ wins best Monday night band

NEW DIMENSIONS’ bandleader, Herman Clarke, of the Pt Lisas Housing Scheme, was in a joyous mood on Monday night when he copped the Monday night Best Band title at the Couva car park, before a massive crowd.

The production, “The Vanishing Tribes,” was in five sections — the Aztecs, the Mayas, the Toltecs, the Madans, and the Africans — each depicting its history until their disappearance due to the exploits of the Europeans. The event was organised by the Couva Carnival Committee, of which former County Councillor Ramchand Rajbal is chairman, and which had planned an eight-day programme of activities for the 2004 celebrations. Clarke’s presentation shone brilliantly under the bright lights. The eye-catching spectacle caught the judges’ attention and it was no surprise when they were announced as the winners.

In second place was Leftwings’ presentation “Fields of Dreams,” a story telling the history  of the sugar cane plantation from the days of slavery until Government’s restructuring programme and the final cut and closure of the Brechin Castle factory. In third position was Masplayers Incorporated’s “Carnival Is,” led by veteran California bandleader Leroy Steele. Fourth position went to Michelle Pierre’s production of Together Again Youths — “Pan Yesterday, Pan Today and Pan Forever.” “Feather Explosion” led by Visham Choon took fifth place.

RESULTS OF KING AND QUEEN OF THE BANDS:
KING - 1. Makesi Andrews (Spirit of the Bustle Dancer); 2. Roddy Ramsawak (The Overseer);
3. Dexter Clarke (Voodoo Witch Doctor),  4. Mikado Johnson (Baseman); 5. Mahendra Hardeosingh (Dance of the Humming Bird).
QUEEN - 1. Cassandra Bain (The Native Pride); 2. Marion Steele (Goddess of Gratitude Appreciation and Innocence); 3. Nikki Braithwaite (Dream on Fire); 4. Makeda Johnson (Ah Pan Crazy); 5. Amelia Rampersad (Wind Beneath My Wings).