SHARING the stage with regional counterpart and host, Haiti, on Saturday evening at the National Chorale in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Guyana produced electrifying performances at the ‘Guyana Night’ presentation, which fulfilled the country’s ultimate goal of creating a lasting impression at the cultural event. Another late start on day two of the 12th edition of the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA), failed to invoke any form of major hiccups during Guyana’s presentation which commenced just after 7:00 pm, with a detailed visual documentary boasting of the country’s local tourism.
The language barrier between the English narration and the French speaking nationals however, did little justice in aiding Guyana’s cause during this presentation.
Nevertheless, the art forms which rely on the use of physical presentations rather than vocal ones erupted a crowd clamouring with enthusiasm.
A melodious medley of folksongs by the National Steel Orchestra beautifully tempered cool evening atmosphere. Folk songs, including Kuma Kuma Fish, Missy Loss She Gold Ring, Bamboo Fyah and Uncle Joe formed part of the group’s presentation.
This was followed by a smooth transition into traditional drumming by two fused groups representing the dominant ethnic groups in Guyana. The resulting Indian and African drumming techniques were merged into a pulsating, vibrant tapestry of sound that delighted listeners.
But what would Guyanese culture be without dance? The answer to this question was etched on the minds of those present on Saturday evening after former Miss Guyana India, Roshini Boodhoo, and her two young dancers demonstrated just how important this art form is to Guyanese culture.
In traditional Indian wear, the trio expertly maneuvered themselves through dance to a religious song that was obviously not known in this section of the region.
Many were told of the legendary stories of the Massacooramaan, a huge, hairy, man-like creature, also known as Sea Master. Tales have it that the character lives in rivers in remote areas of Guyana, capsises small boats and eats the occupants.
But on Saturday night, Haitians experienced, in full effect, a realistic dramatic display of this folk story.
With cultural diversity being the hallmark of CARIFESTA, the National Dance Company who took to the stage incorporating complex dance routines to serve as a dramatic expression in storytelling.
The dramatic presentation portrayed the unexpected death of a ring-leader which had been the result of a ‘stick fight’.
But evening showers, which seemingly appear to be routine in the host country, given its occurrence in the last three days, once again, prematurely ended the night’s proceedings, leaving hunger for more of the Guyanese culture.
The steel orchestra, supported by the drummers, were requested to bring the curtain down on the Guyana leg of the festival.
Carifesta, which facilitates the gathering of like-minded souls, will continue for the next eight days with a Grand Market, exhibits, performances, and other cultural orientations dominating this extravaganza.
The events will run from 10:00 a.m. to midnight daily. It is expected to be a fair where Caribbean craft rub shoulders with fashion shows, gastronomic palaver, music and other creative art forms.
(Sponsored by GT&T)

By Ravin Singh in Haiti