By Navendra Seoraj

A TROUPE of singers, dancers and scores of other entertainers on stage at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) Wednesday evening captivated the diverse audience at the Unity Concert as they celebrated social cohesion.The true meaning of Guyana’s national motto: “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” was fully expressed, as Guyanese of all walks of life gathered in their numbers to enjoy the exuberant performances from different cultural groups and individuals.

As one of the first major events on the calendar for Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations this month, the performers spared no effort in making an exuberant start in the lead-up to Independence Day, May 26, 2016.
BUILDING SOCIAL COHESION
While the celebrations continue, as touted by many officials and commentators, the Golden Jubilee celebrations are an ideal opportunity to build social cohesion, and derive a sense of togetherness among Guyanese of all ethnic groups.
This approach was displayed as everyone shook to the sounds of drums, tassas and a number of other ethnic musical instruments which were at one point played simultaneously, sending a lively vibe through the crowd, who could not hold back on their appreciation and applause.
Laughter became contagious, as entertainers took the audience back in time, with skits demonstrating the colonial days and songs describing Guyana’s natural and man-made beauty.
Many distinguished guests, such as First Lady Sandra Granger, ambassadors and government officials appeared mesmerised with the way in which the organisers pulled off such a well co-ordinated event, which had almost everyone at the edge of their seats.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo told the Guyana Chronicle that it was indeed a major concert that brought the message of the historical development of Guyana, especially as it relates to cultural assimilation.

‘GUYANESENESS’

“It also depicted the difficulties which we face politically and the difficulties to overcome colonialism… however, in the end, it was trying to bring a fusion to show that we can be of different ethnicities [and] cultural patterns, but in the end if we embrace the ‘Guyaneseness’ we’ll find oneness,” said the Prime Minister, who himself was unable to control the excitement and took to the stage to showcase some of his dance moves among the many performers.