THE Sonia Noel Foundation for the Creative Arts in collaboration with a diaspora-based group recently staged their ‘Not A Blade of Grass Concert’ and fun day at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground.

The Essequibians were treated to hours of great performances by the talented crew from the overseas-based Calibro Group lead by the legendary ‘Mighty Chief’. The singers were exceptional in every genre of music and of course Dave Martin’s ‘Not a Blade of Grass’ and Bob Marley’s ‘One Love’ were big hits with the audience.
Members of the Divine Stars Dance Group performed their routines with breath-taking ease, so too were those from the Karawab Dance Group. They were outfitted in spectacular indigenous designs for their native dances.
Joel Smith, the leader of the group, said it is the first time his group got the opportunity to perform out of the village and they were grateful for the exposure.
The Akawini Dance Group also had the attention of the gathering.
Meanwhile, Cacaburi Kids were exceptional with their presentation of a well-choreographed acrobatic display. It drew a resounding applause from the festive audience.
Oswald Williams who is a teacher/choreographer of the Cacaburi Primary School said he was thrilled when he learnt his students would be participating in the event. He said he briefed them on the importance of the Guyana/Venezuela situation and they had so many questions on the issue.
James Miguel, the Toshao in the Lower Pomeroon was very appreciative that they were included in this event.
“It was a privilege for us at Cacaburi to be part of this event. I feel happy to be here to send a strong message that Essequibo belongs to us and we are doing it through dance and music.”
Shonta Noel, who is one of this year’s top Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) performers for Guyana and the Caribbean, interacted with the youth from the Amerindian villages and the Essequibo Coast.
She encouraged them to be focused and to make education a priority at this stage in their lives. The kids enjoyed face painting, trampoline and other entertainment provided for them by the organisers
According to Sophia Darlington from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event surpassed their expectations.
The Women of Substance Group in Essequibo were present and took the opportunity to meet with Miss Sonia Noel at the event to discuss her mentoring their group and future collaborations.
Some aspiring designers from Essequibo were obviously delighted when they interacted with the veteran designer.
In a brief comment, Miss Noel said, “It’s a great feeling for my foundation to be involved in such a meaningful venture that afforded me the opportunity to forge relations with these super creative people.”
Mariska Fiedtkou Jordan and Harold Alves were the main coordinators of the event. The next event is scheduled for Bartica in December 2015.
Sonia Noel has been very busy out of Guyana for the last few months in the USA. In September, she hosted another ‘Bridging the GAP’ showcase in New York. In October, she collaborated with ‘Circle of Friends’ to raise funds for people with disabilities in Fort Lauderdale. Just last week her exclusive designs were featured at one of the high-profile events in Miami Beach. One of her First Resort pieces was auctioned for over US$800 which went to the Easter Seals Charity Network. Her work was featured in the event magazine.
“I pride myself in creating fashion that bears international appeal, but more than that, I represent the Caribbean with a passionate flair that makes for distinctive style and inimitable design. I celebrate my resort lifestyle and I capture the tropical ease in my garments. The Sonia Noel Designs have come to be branded as resort wear with an exotic edge, just like me, full of surprises and enjoying life to the fullest.”
Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry also supported the event.