IT was evident from the posture taken by Haitian President Michel Martelly at a cultural extravaganza held on Monday evening that, if he is not the most celebrated individual in his country, then he certainly is one of the most celebrated. He, of course, continues to passionately push a regional integration agenda.

Though heavily guarded at the event, which was held at Cuoss Ocsde Janty Champ de Marse, Martelly ‘palanced’ (partied, limed and danced) with a faction of the Guyanese delegation and shared the moment with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)’s Secretary-General, Irwin LaRocque.

Preceding this was the fourth round of Guyana’s performing arts, featuring dancers and musicians who enriched the atmosphere with music rooted in ethnic heritage under the theme, ‘Rites and Rhythms of Guyana.’

From Afro-Guyanese demonstrating Amerindian dance, which was complemented by Tibisiri clothing, to acknowledgment of European ancestry, also through dance, it was obvious that the culture of the “Land of Many Waters” is multi-faceted.

A modernised version of the popular Bollywood song, “Dhol Bage” was beautifully articulated by four impressive young dancers, who mirrored the interpretation of the song – beats of the drums – to reflect the unified syncing of a multi-cultural nation.

On the converse side, “Power of drums,” a contemporary African dance, demonstrated the supremacy of an African drum which empowers the people. The interpretive dance featured five male artistes who absorbed strength from the drums to manoeuvre themselves skilfully during the routine. Drifting away from the drums, however, resulted in a loss of strength, which highlighted the power of the musical instrument to African heritage.

One of Guyana’s most notable groups, the Masquerade dancers, then made their appearance in fine style, its members dressed in their cultural costumes comprising colours of the national flag. The energy exhibited by Bam-bam Sally, the Flouncer and Mad-bull caused the Haitian crowd to erupt in excitement; they were obviously experiencing culture shock.

Releasing his Guyanese spirit as he took to the stage to sing, Chutney icon Rajesh Dubraj met with positive responses from the crowd, which, although restricted by the language barrier, enjoyed his performance.

The short presentation by Guyana ended with the transitioning to a Soca performance by a renowned Haitian band based in the United States. The electrifying performance caused thousands to rise to their feet, undoubtedly driving home the idea that Haitians are Caribbean people.

In a twist of events, President Martelly made his grand appearance and headed directly for the main stage, after which he was greeted by CARICOM Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque. The duo humorously engaged the crowd for a brief moment, during which Martelly requested LaRocque to sing for his Haitian people.

Of course, the Secretary-General declined, offering that the Haitians would laugh at his lack of talent. But a determined Martelly assured him that his people would applaud him for any attempt.

The two then made their way into the audience, where they blended in casually to experience the remainder of the show from the perspective of the average attendee.

It was at this point that the Haitian President was greeted by representatives of Guyana, as they shared a photo opportunity with Martelly requesting to wave a Guyana flag. The feeling for the Guyanese ambassadors was overwhelming.

His gesture on that evening bore testimony to his thoughts, expressed at the opening ceremony: “It [CARIFESTA] is not Haiti’s show; it is our [CARICOM’s] show.” (Sponsored by Fly Jamaica)

By Ravin Singh in Haiti