Commissioner Charles Woodley (second left) presenting the key to Carnival Village to President of the St. Eustatius Arts and Cultural Heritage Foundation Teena Lopes (second right). Also in picture are Berlushyne van Putten (left) and Tres Tirene Lopes (right).
ST. EUSTATIUS–Carnival 2017 on St. Eustatius officially opened Wednesday night at Mike van Putten Youth Center/Lion’s Den, which now serves as Carnival Village.
Turbulanz band had the Carnival revellers jumping and prancing through the streets leading to Carnival Village in Concordia as the Opening Jump-Up took place. This year marks 53 years of Statia Carnival, which will run until July 31.
During the Jump-Up, the heavens opened and rain began to fall, but the precipitation did not stop revellers from jamming to the music. There was a large turnout, with hundreds of revellers coming out in force to witness and attend the opening night.
Commissioner Charles Woodley spoke on behalf of Commissioner of Culture Derrick Simmons, who was off-island for business.
Woodley reflected on when the first block was laid to build the Lion’s Den by famous Calypsonian Samuel “Trini” Benjamin, who he assisted in the construction. Commissioner Woodley pledged that Government would always support Carnival, and encouraged revellers to stay safe and enjoy Carnival. “If you are drinking, please, do not drive, or have a friend take you home,” the Commissioner said.
He concluded by wishing everyone a safe and happy Carnival. He welcomed visitors to the island, and wished them a happy stay and enjoyable Carnival.
Woodley then handed over the ceremonial Carnival key to President of the St. Eustatius Arts and Cultural Heritage Foundation STACH Teena Lopes. After handing her the key he opened the gate to the entrance of the Village.
Yesterday, Thursday evening, the Battle of the Future #3 took place in which three young performers were contending for the crown, reigning champion Team Kay among them.
Tonight, Friday evening, Da Onyan Effeck will take the stage to the delight of their fans.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/67839-commissioner-charles-woodley-officially-opens-statia-carnival
View comments
Hide comments