THE 2012 Mashramani Festival, the celebratory component of the nation’s annual Republic Anniversary, will be formally launched at the Umana Yana at 17:00hrs today, with steelband music and lively Mashramani pieces, past and current, setting the mood for the occasion. Amidst much revelry and fanfare, the Central Mashramani management committee, and its sub-committees, with Chairman Dr. Frank Anthony, the Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, at the helm, will outline the 2012 official programme of activities.
Other preparatory planning already on stream for the  multi-cultural festival which usually culminates on February 23, Republic Day, will also be highlighted.
Today’s launch will unveil a structured entertainment segment, featuring the Mash 2011 Chutney, Health Song, Road March and other highlights, along with the a performance by the National School of Dance.
Meanwhile, to set the tone and context of the 2012 Festival will be an address by Minister Anthony and a supportive representative from the private sector, according to Coordinator of the Central Mashramani Secretariat in Georgetown, Lennox Canterbury.