There will be many recognizable faces inside of the Hilton Los Angeles come June 29th, but more than ever, Nikki Crosby’s will greet the majority and embody the class that SAO has attained in its ten years of successful shows.

For more information log on to www.socaawards.com or call USA 1-818-403-0849

With plans underway to party till midnight after the actual two-hour-long Zumba workout, party lovers who yearn to incorporate some level of exercise into their recreational habits are being assured that nothing could possibly outdo this experience. Tickets for the event have been going quite quickly, however organisers admit that women have definitely taken the lead when it comes to participation and now, they’re hoping to make it clear that men are wanted and will be welcomed with open arms at this weekend’s fitness party.

With part proceeds going toward two charities- The Diabetes Society of T&T and the Autistic Society of T&T, the event is truly for a good cause and seeks to introduce more people in T&T to Zumba which is all the rave, being touted as a workout regimen that will never become a bore. On Saturday, people in T&T, both newcomers and those experienced with the fitness trend will become a part of a fraternity that includes some 12 million fitness buffs worldwide who’ve been taking Zumba classes across 110,000 locations. The craze, which was created in the late 1990’s in Colombia has definitely hit Trinidad but still, Atrawets School of Dance and Education believes it could very well be the fitness regimen to capture more people of Carnival island, all with its meringue, salsa and other dance steps incorporated.

Corporate employees are being catered to in a special way with each package of 10 tickets purchased, guaranteeing an allowance of two additional patrons. Those participating will receive free Zumba party packs and with lots of giveaways in store, lucky patrons may very well walk away with much more than a sweat by the end of the night.

Again, men are being encouraged to come out and support the effort. Organisers truly believe that Zumba is the answer to the ailments suffered by many people- both men and women and so the regimen to a healthier life is highly encouraged. For further information on the event this weekend, persons are asked to call 679-8720 or email info@atrawets.com.

Atrawets School of Dance and Education say it’s time to Zumba your way to a healthier, happier way of life!

Alicia Keys holds 14 Grammy Awards and is a world-famous singer, songwriter, producer, actress, New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur and humanitarian. Keys has built an unparalleled repertoire of hits with more than 30 million albums sold worldwide. As an actress, Keys has featured in Smokin’ Aces’, The Nanny Diaries and The Secret Life of Bees. Keys made her directorial debut in 2011 with Lili, a short film for an anthology of Lifetime’s five short films about breast cancer.

“We are excited to have such an acclaimed artist, Alicia Keys, join our reputable line up of performers,” says Curaçao Tourist Board CEO Ghatim Kabbara. “Travelers from all over the world will be joining us for the concert festival of the year, heightening awareness of Curaçao as the hottest destination for music in the Caribbean.”

The Festival returns to Curacao from August 31 – September 1, 2012 with world renowned artist Santana headlining the impressive lineup. He will be joined by performers including Maná, Ruben Bladés, Sergio George’ All Star Salsa Friends, Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band lead by Paquito D’Rivera, India Arie, Jill Scott, and more. The prime jazz and blues concert series, incorporating the best mix of salsa, Latin, and pop will take place at the World Trade Center Curaçao in Piscadera Bay.

Other performers at the Festival include Buika, Caro Emerald, Randy Crawford & Joe Sample Trio, Waylon, Paquito D’Rivera Septet, Joshua Redman with Aaron Parks, Matt Penman and Eric Harland: James Farm, delivering an impressive line-up of jazz, soul, rock and Latin music.

In the week before the Festival, concerts are held on various locations on the island including the popular party spot, Mambo Beach. Travelers heading down to Curaçao for the Festival can expect lively pop-up concerts and events by local Curaçaoän performers during the full week prior to the Festival. There’s no question that Curaçao knows how to throw a good party, having been recently highlighted for its music and excellent night life in “Cura
çao After Dark
” by The New York Times.
Day tickets for the 2012 concerts start from only $195 and are on sale NOW! For more information on the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival, please visit www.curacaonorthseajazz.com. The Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival is made possible by: Fundashon Bon Intenshon.
For more information on Curaçao or to book your trip to the 2012 Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival, please visit Curacao.com.

iTunes Link:http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/talawah/id524451330?i=524451939&ign-mpt=%C2

Ephraim Martin, IRAWMA and IFOL producer, said that after fifteen consecutive years on the road, the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) ceremony has come home. “It’s going to be a grand celebration,” he said. “Since The Taste of Chicago, one of America’s biggest July 4th Independence celebrations begins later in the month the Festival of Life will serve as the main event for residents and visitors from around the world. The Chicago Office of Tourism will join IFOL in its effort to maximize tourists to Chicago for the July 4th holiday.”

He added, “We’re going to roll out the red carpet in Washington Park on the 5th of July right in the middle of the festival and just steps from President Barack Obama’s home.”

Eight Icons who are living legends were named for the Reggae 50 Honors. Two honorees will receive the Martin’s International Award of Honor in Media. The 2012 Hall of Fame Inductee(s) will be named at a later date.

The REGGAE 50 HONOREES ARE:

• RITA MARLEY- FOR HER WORK IN THE PERSERVATION AND PROMOTION OF REGGAE’S LEGACY
• MARCIA GRIFFITHS EMPRESS OF REGGAE
• JUDY MOWATT FOR SPIRITUAL SERVICE THROUGH MUSIC
• FREDDIE MCGREGOR FOR 50 YEARS OF DEDICATED & UNTIRING SERVICE TO JAMAICA AND THE WORLD THROUGH MUSIC
• KEN BOOTHE- FOR BEING MOST CONSISTENT IN THE PRESERVATION OF JAMAICA’S ROCKSTEADY MUSIC
• ERIC DONALDSON – THE KING OF JAMAICAN SONG CONTEST IN PAST 50 YEARS
• CHARLES CAMERON- FOR SIXTY YEARS OF UNTIRING CONTRIBUTION TO JAMAICAN MUSIC
• COPELAND FORBES FOR 50 YEARS OF VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

THE MARTIN’S INTERNATIONAL MEDIA AWARDEES ARE:
• BERKO AKOTO OWUSU, AFRICAN SPECTRUM- FOR OUTSTANDING JOURNALISTIC CONTRIBUTION TO AFRICAN AND WORLD MUSIC
• ONSTAGE TV- WINFORD WILLIAMS FOR MOST VALUABLE MEDIA CONTRIBUTIONS TO REGGAE IN THE LAST DECADE
•
Dedicated to “Jamaica’s 50th Year of Independence,” the Festival of Life will feature a pavilion showcasing “All Things Jamaican,” and serving as a road to Jamaica’s Golden Jubilee in August. Importers/exporters, hoteliers, shipping services, travel–oriented entrepreneurs and businesses that market Jamaica or Jamaican brand products are encouraged to contact Martin’s International at 312/427-0266 or e-mail: irawmasponsor@gmail.com to be a part of the pavilion.

• This history making 31st IRAWMA and the 20th anniversary IFOL is sponsored by NBC 5 TV- Chicago, The Chicago Park District, Chicago Office of Tourism, J.FC Jerk and Fried Chicken, Robert Scott – One Stop Studio, Rogers Park Fruit Market, Insurance Brokers, Inc, Captain Hooks Fish/Chicken and Firehouse, KCB Inc and others. The Marriott Chicago Midway Airport is the official hotel for the five days celebration. For reservation call 1-708-594-5500 and mention the code words “Festival/Awards”.

Hours for the Festival of Life are 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily, except for July 5th and 6th from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The IRAWMA red carpet arrival and Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 5th from 6:00 to 10:00 pm. Get tickets now at www.festivaloflife.biz, www.irawma.com or call 312/427-0266. E-mail: festoflife@gmail.com. For general information visit www.festivaloflife.co or call 877/9-REGGAE, 877/311-1300, 312/427-0266.

TICKETS PRICES ARE:
Free to kids under 6 years old; $5 ages 6-12/seniors over 65 yrs old
$10 Adults and kids over 12 years old before 5pm day of event
$15 Adults and kids over 12 years old at 5pm day of event
$35 Five-Day Season Pass (Adults and kids over 12 years old)
$50 VIP Daily Pass (includes: seats and 2 drinks in VIP area)
$150 VIP 5-Day Season Pass (includes seats and 2 drinks in VIP area)
$75 VIP Daily Platinum Pass (includes parking, VIP seats, limited backstage access, 3 drinks and hors d’oeuvres)
$200 VIP Platinum Pass 5-Day season pass (includes: parking, VIP seats, limited backstage access, 3 drinks and hors d’oeuvres). Prices are subject to change.

The Carnival Village was bustling with energy and expectation for the performance by the Trinidad and Tobago based Soca ensemble. Calypso and Soca fans as well as live show enthusiasts alike lined the front of the stage from early in order to gain the best vantage point for absorbing each detail of the famed Caribbean crossover band’s appearance.

Much to the delight of the audience, Kes The Band led by frontline vocalist and 2011 International Groovy Soca Monarch Kees Dieffenthaller with his team of talented musicians hit the St. Maarten stage with high impact. The band delivered a diverse set which satisfied the many musical cravings of the massive crowd which consisted of local party goers, visitors to the island and even international celebrities and foreign media personnel.

Kes’ high-powered St. Maarten performance included all of the band’s original hit songs such as “Where Yuh From”, “Right Dey”, “Thunder”, the Carnival 2012 smashes “Coming Over”, “Play Ah Mas” and “Stress Away” and the ever popular “Wotless” (a tune which the St. Maarten crowd sang word for word). Kes also offered music selections for all age groups and musical tastes.

The energetic Carnival Village attendees exclaimed in delight as the band displayed true versatility. The appreciative audience sang along in unison as Kes performed everything from classics by Calypso legends such as Super Blue and David Rudder to modern day popular hits by Pitbull, Usher, Chris Brown and Vybz Kartel.
Sharing the stage with Kes at the “1 Red Nation” were Jamaican Reggae artistes Popcaan and Chris Martin who was joined onstage by Dancehall Diva Cecile.

Given the pure energy and positive vibrations of that night’s atmosphere (both on the stage and in the crowd), it is indeed evident that as much as the patrons were excited to see these performers, the artistes themselves were obviously enthusiastic about being in St. Maarten for Carnival to entertain these eager fans.

This annual occurrence has been the island’s largest cultural event for the past 42 years and is organized by the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF).
The Divi Little Bay Resort and surrounding Phillipsburg accommodations served the as relaxation points for many of the festival’s newbie aficionados as well as seasoned Carnival connoisseurs. However, all observers and participants alike converged day and night in the main centre of action also known as the “Carnival Village” for a one of a kind cultural buffet.

The St. Maarten Carnival Village, which is transformed into the region’s largest restaurant, features booths with samplings of cuisine from each of the near 80 nationalities that call St. Maarten home and is also the literal hotspot for all the major concerts and pageants. Over this year’s 2 week Carnival period, visitors to the village enjoyed several forms of entertainment which included Calypso Competitions, Youth and Teen Extravaganzas, Speech and Culture Wear Competitions, a Ms. Mature Queen Pageant and world class concerts which showcased top Soca, Latin and Zouk performers.

Much like several other regional Carnival celebrations, the Jouvert revelry set the pace and built excitement for the main costumed parades. However, it must be noted than unlike some regional and international Carnivals, St. Maarten’s parade had a smooth flow of mas bands (before and after judging points) and each mas band boasted music trucks with full live brass bands which performed a variety of genres.

Also, it is evident that a high level of order was present as even though the costumed bands were not roped off from the public, non-masqueraders chose to remain on the sidelines as opposed to invading the ‘costumed zones’.
Additionally, every band had a choreographed routine which they executed seamlessly at each judging point.

The End of St. Maarten’s Carnival is marked with the symbolic burning of King Moumou, a straw-stuffed effigy who annually presides over the whole festive affair

The event which took place at St. Maarten’s party central, the Carnival Village, attracted attendees from both the Dutch and French side of the island as well as fans from the neighbouring islands of St. Barth’s, Guadeloupe and Martinique. Interestingly enough, a large delegation of European and North American tourists who were experiencing their first tastes of Carnival culture were also in attendance.

The evening’s sizzling line-up of Soca artistes included St. Maarten’s Shadowman, Youth Extreme – Aruba’s Road March champions, Roxanne Webster (aka Roxxy) – the Calypso and Soca singing sensation from Anguilla, WCK – Dominica’s Bouyon Kings and a highly awaited band clash between the Awesome Jam Band from St. Thomas, and Anguilla’s reigning Road March champs, Pantha Vibes International.

Hometown hero Shadow Man along with his live band kept the crowd moving with his popular Soca tunes which include “Caribbean Cruise” and “White Line” while Roxxy enticed the audience with her originals “Delete” and “Ready for the World”. WCK kept the vibes flowing with high energy ‘jump up’ music and renditions of hit songs from Soca artistes Machel Montano, Kees Dieffenthaller and Kerwin Dubois and made way for the grand performance by the legendary Zouk band Kassav..

Kassav fronted by singers Jocelyne Beroard and Jean Philippe Marthely electrified the Carnival Village and had the audience lingering on their every lyric. It was clear that within the multiethnic, multicultural population of St. Maarten were throngs of Kassav fans as all present seemed to become one with the music as they sang along to their favourite Kassav classics such as “Siwo”, “Syé bwa” and “Zouk-la sé sèl médikaman nou ni”

With over 30 years of live performances and over 60 albums under their belts, the members of Kassav injected an unmatched level of vibrancy and vitality into the lives and hearts of those in attendance and set the stage for an unforgettable St. Maarten-styled Carnival.

Based on the positive feedback, Bazza has decided to release a medley video which will be shot on the 22nd of May at Russian VIP night club located in Red Hills Square, Red Hills, St. Andrew. The shoot will be open to the public as the general theme will be that of a party or dance. The director is encouraging anyone planning to be a part of the shoot to dress to impress and come out with the intention to party, buy out the bar and have a good time. Shooting starts from 8am and goes up until 11pm. Persons wanting more information about the video shoot can contact Maria Jackson at mariajacksonent@gmail.com (876)402-9301 or via BB 30b9e545

Produced by ZJ Sparks for Twelve 9 Records and Dan Grossman and Michael Gore for Dynasty Music, the upbeat track grooves listeners with its use of synthesized trumpets, and playful Xylophone while Collie sings the addictive punch line “I feel so good, I don’t know what’s come over me!”

Set at the show’s closing scene, personalities Susan and Keisha can be seen bouncing to the track while they play in the water with the Dolphins in Tahiti as the song plays in the background. “I literally felt good when I got the news of the songs placement on the show” said Collie when reached by phone in Bermuda. “It’s nice to see Reggae profiled in such a big way!”

In Jamaica, ZJ Sparks and the Twelve 9 Records team celebrated “this is the first time a Reggae song has been featured on Basketball Wives. This is a first and a huge accomplishment,” said Sparks.

Popular social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook came to life as fans got the pleasant surprise while watching their favourite show. On ZJ Sparks’ timeline, fans tweeted to the producer “OMG!! Who else is super excited about Collie Buddz being featured on Basketball Wives tonight?!,” while fans on Collie’s timeline added “Hearing @CollieBuddz on Basketball wives was the best highlight for me tonight!”

Collie Buddz song, “I Feel So Good” is a part of the Kush Morning Riddim line up which also features Serani, Ikaya and Jah Vinci. The riddim is available on iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/kush-morning/id499341564).

Reggae artiste Sizzla is known for his message laced conscious offerings. His latest single Love Connection raises the musical bar with its lyrical content and top notch production.

Love Connection is produced by Adrian ‘Donsome’ Hanson and released on the Donsome Records label.

The romantic ballad has been blowing up FM radio its release to radio.

In the song, Sizzla pleads for the affection of his woman. He longs for the comfort of her arms where he can find solace in her passion.

Love Connection showcases Sizzla’s musical artistry and his knack for creating deliciously appetizing brews when it comes to matters of the heart.

This is another tasty treat from the producer who is best known for the Crime Stop rhythm project. Crime Stop featured Mama Bawl by Gyptian, Lost Our Way by I Octane and Famine and Drought by I Wayne.

This latest Caribbean collaboration is produced by top Trinidadian producer Big Rich of the ‘The Punkalunks Factory’ who in recent years has been responsible for some of the biggest hits in the Chutney and Soca genres. The song unites Ravi B’s sweet, sensual Hindi lyrics with Isasha’s raw, unmistakable vocals, set to the tempo of a groovy Chutney-Soca riddim for a truly melodious and danceable number.

Although it has only been recently released, music fans and industry insiders have been giving the new tune positive reviews and have already branded it as a modern day wedding anthem. Upon listening to the single, a well known entertainment blogger defined Jab Jab Bahar Aaye as ‘a festive Caribbean party atmosphere meeting a passionate wedding setting’ due to its romantic overtones matched with its infectious percussive beats.

Isasha whose real name is Brendon Young is recognized as one of T&T’s premier Reggae balladeers and in 2012 he proved his ability on the Soca stage with his Carnival 2012 track ‘Wining Symptoms”. On Jab Jab Bahar Aaye he impressively complements Ravi’s smooth Hindi vocals with his rootsy Ragga technique.

This new musical offering, however, does not mark the first occasion that the Chutney and Reggae worlds have combined as Ravi B’s sister and Karma band mate Nisha B has previously teamed up with Jamaican superstars Beenie Man and Busy Signal creating the Dancehall-Chutney sub-genre.

Ravi shared that not only does this collaboration between himself and Isasha represent unity and creative comradry amongst Caribbean artistes but it also showcases the limitless possibilities for the Chutney-Soca art form as it gains momentum en route to achieving further global appeal.

Since Trinidad’s 2012 Carnival Ravi and Karma have been touring almost every weekend in the US, Canada and Guyana. He noted that the band’s next carded performance in Trinidad will be on May 29th for the country’s Indian Arrival Day celebrations after it returns from overseas appearances at events such as the Gemini Production’s Annual Mother’s Day Concert in Miami, the 10/10 cricket finals in Guyana and Orlando’s Carnival.

Most notably, Ravi B will also open for Bollywood superstar Sonu Nigam at the Jean Pierre Complex in Port of Spain on June 2nd and he will host The Annual Father’s Day Spectacular on June 16th alongside Karma at the Centre of Excellence.

MAGAROZE RIDDIM
Kes: Your Body Working
Benjai: A.T.A.O Engoma
Teddyson John: Jouvert Morning
Kakal: Salt Fish
Invader: 4 A Cut
DJ HP: Panty & Bra
Instrumental

SOCA BASHMENT RIDDIM
Teddyson John: Nasty Wine
Teddyson John Feat.Mr. Pringles: Jump On A Man
Sir Lancealot: Freaky Gyal
DYP: Doh Beat Gyal
DJ HP: Bike Back
Instrumental

Romain Virgo recentlly wrapped a mini U.S. tour and promo run last week, performing in Northeastern cities including Hartford, D.C., Philadelphia and New York City. He will return to NYC on Sat. May 12 to perform at a Mother’s Day concert featuring Sanchez, Cocoa Tea and Christopher Martin held at Amazura in Queens. The same day, there will be a special meet & greet with all the artists at VP Records retail store (170-21 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432) from 2-5pm. On Monday, May 14 Romain will perform a 3-song live acoustic set at Miss Lily’s Variety Store (132 West Houston Street) in Manhattan at 7pm

A string of hits later, and a few years after the debut release of Q-South, The Brotherhood of the Grape was assembled. The whole musical journey was recorded in the album Almost Homeless (2002), which was followed by Bar-Humbug (2003) and The One and Lonely (2005). These releases, along with Hornung’s albums Soca and Me (2008) Songs from the Old Neighborhood (2010), and Q-South Live @ C.B.G.B’s (2012) are all available on Into the Whip Records.

In the past, The Brotherhood of the Grape has featured some of New York City’s finest musicians, including Ron Zabrocki, Geoff Unger, Mike Devellis, Eddy Joe McCabe, Brian Senders,Matthew McCann,Greg Holt,Frank Persico,College, B.M.W.A., and the mutli-talented Ed Klinger. Walker just finished a new full-length release with the band, titled Vintage available June 2012

As Brand Ambassador, Shermain will be working closely with CEO JR Giddings in ensuring that the Bikini Under the Bridge brand image is well positioned and well represented. Shermain’s background in a vast array of disciplines to include Travel & Tourism, Sales and Marketing, International Relations, Beauty Pageants and Music and Entertainment has positioned the budding socialite among a wealth of unique networks and affiliates.

“We are excited to have Shermain represent the JRG and Bikini Under the Bridge brand. She has the look and personality that we are all about and look forward to a strong relationship moving forward” says Jr Giddings. “I love what JRG and Bikini Under the Bridge represents. Its sophisticated and trendy appeal, along with its strong commitment to diversity is everything my own personal brand represents. This is surely an awesome and exciting fit!” says Shermain.

The Bikini Under the Bridge “Wow Factor” night is scheduled to take place on May 19th at the Downtown Brooklyn Sheraton Hotel where the JRG models will be on-hand to sign personalized posters and photo-ops. The newly appointed Brand Ambassador is slated to host the night’s event. Patrons and supporters alike look forward to this year’s Bikini Under the Bridge Fashion Show being like none other come this Summer.

Ricardo RED BOOM Reid started out as a disc jockey, who over a period of time elevated to beat production, engineering and then mixing. He is one of the few producers from Jamaica who takes great pride in his work and puts quality production before any kind of monetary gains. He produces and mixes both Reggae and Dancehall rhythms and does amazing engineering work as well. The list of established artists that he has worked with is endless; starting from the very lyrical Vybz Kartel all the back to the veteran King Josey Wales.

I am encouraging all artists, record labels and producers seeking a proper production and or mix for their songs to consider working with this talent. I can go on and on about what makes him amazing but the proof is in the pudding. Here is a link to listen to some of his recent work: http://www.reverbnation.com/redboomdiproduca

Over the last 14 years, Rhea Smith has worked with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Brooklyn Children’s Museum, Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts and others in varied capacities. As a Publicist, she has worked with artists/companies and talent booking agencies like, Arturo O’Farrell, The Mighty Sparrow, David Rudder, Freddie McGregor, Luciano, dancehall legend – King Yellowman, Freddie Jackson, Bill Cosby, Isaac Hayes, Savion Glover, Gregory Hinds, Ben Vereen, Ky-mani Marley (Dear Dad book signing, Love Over All Foundation and Museum literacy program reading) , Le Ballet National du Senegal, St. Petersburg Ballet, Dance Cuba, Tango Flamenco, the Brad Simon and William Morris agencies.

Her consulting includes work with the Caribbean Cultural Center of New York, West Indian American Day Carnival Association NY (WIADCA), NYC Administration for Children’s Services, former NYC Council Member – Honorable Dr. Una Clarke, U.S. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, NY State Senator Kevin Parker and NY State Assemblyman N. Nick Perry.

Utilizing her talents to pursue her passion of showcasing the Caribbean and its rich heritage, Ms. Smith founded the United Islands of the Caribbean (1996), an organization responsible for the planning, coordination and presentation of Virginia’s first Caribbean Carnival in Richmond. Her carnival costume debut came after a successful venture with Baje Internationals’ 2003 presentation of Love Birds for Barbados’ Annual Cropover Festival. As a result, Ms. Smith promoted Poison’s (one of Trinidad’s largest and most popular carnival bands) presentation of the costume Nemesis and Magico Mundo for Trinidad Carnival 2005-2006.

Currently, Ms. Smith is the Publicist for the Brooklyn Children’s Museum (designed by world-class architect, Rafael Viňoly and world’s first children’s Museum); Founder/CEO of FUNSATION4 Media – a Special Events/Media Management and Production company founded under the mission of producing uniquely themed cultural, socially driven and quality entertainment events/projects, a shareholder of PULSE8 carnival band (Trinidad) and the publicist for Grammy nominated recording Reggae artist – Freddie McGregor O.D. & Big Ship Music Inc.

Ms. Smith has also co-produced the U.S. Virgin Islands Inaugural Ball (January 2009 U.S. Presidential Inauguration) featuring Queen of Reggae – Marcia Griffiths, Cocoa Tea and Tabou Combo at the only inaugural ball representing Washington’s Caribbean Diaspora and the historical NY debut of Reggae in Symphony (October 2007) featuring Reggae legends John Holt and Freddie McGregor accompanied by the Reggae Symphony Orchestra. Other collaborative events include: Caribbean Tales – New York Film Showcase, Caribbean Cultural Theater, Brooklyn’s Best Jumpin’ JazzFest, Brooklyn Children’s Museum Kiddies Carnival Jump Up and the New York Stock Exchange (rang opening bell with BCM February 2011).

Recently, Ms. Smith joined forces with Lonai Mosley (Dahya Pix) to co-produce, direct and develop: One Family – a reality based, television, cultural, docu-trip, narrated by 43-year Reggae music veteran, Freddie McGregor O.D. and friends, highlighting the differences and similarities in traditions, culture, music styles and influences between Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago in an effort to educate, identify and unify; and Bridging the Gap Caribbean Youth Initiative – developed to “bridge the gap” between international companies based in the Caribbean and non-profit organizations (that service youth) by funding, supporting and strengthening programs and outreach throughout the Caribbean (ex: Cyril Ross Nursery- Tunapuna Trinidad & Love Over All Foundation Jamaica).

In this 2012 production, the Lilliputians revive the storytelling tradition of one of the most loved folk characters in the region. The context of the World Wide Web forms the basis for the company’s analysis of this fun-loving trickster who takes the form of a spider or a man. Like Anansi, the young thespians adeptly weave a web of humour and trickery that reflects who we are as a society.

anasi and the world wide web promises an upbeat musical experience featuring the masterful composition and arrangement of organic percussionist, Jajah Oga Onilu in Longtime Carnival; 3canal’s 2012 rapso rendition, Occupy; the captivating music of Ella Andall’s, Ogun Suite; Kerwin Du Bois’s 2012 soca hit, Bacchanalist; and live music performed by Simon Mendoza on keyboards and Everald “Redman” Watson and Xavier Simms on African drums and percussion. The play incorporates contemporary modern and ballet choreography by company founder, artistic director and producer, Douglas and dancers, Tonya Evans, Arlene Frank and Charlene Harris.

Lilliput Theatre teaches theatre to children aged 7 to 18 and dance to children aged 3 to 18. It was founded in1975 and encourages self-confidence through the challenge of theatre, game play and imagination. The theatre’s production team is led by Douglas and director, Wendell Manwarren, supported by drama tutors, elisha efua bartels and Evans and dance instructors, Evans, Frank, Harris and Charlene Rollock. For more information email liza@estuarypr.com or call (868) 367-5295.

WHAT:
anansi and the world wide web

WHO:
Lilliput Theatre

WHEN:
Friday May 18, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday May 19, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday May 20, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Queen’s Hall, St. Anns, Port of Spain

TICKETS:
Children $85.00/Adults $95.00
Crosby’s Music Centre, St. James – (868) 622-SOCA(7622) or students of Lilliput Theatre

His most recent release is a collaborative one with a young songstress who is bent on showing the world just what she’s got, and she’s certainly got a lot to offer. Meet 23-year-old Crystal ‘Sparkles’ Nixon. She’s the female voice on the hot, new reggae single that many agree, will make waves across the islands of the Caribbean and overseas, if given the chance. Sparkles and K.Kay have known each other for many years and their musical chemistry has proven strong on previous occasions, however this time around Sparkles truly shines and with an effervescent vibe plus her vocal perfection, she’s putting everything she’s got into making this single a promotional success. “ I’ve been singing since the age of 12 and I penned my first song when I was 14-years-old,” she highlighted, explaining that her compositions have won her numerous titles in varying competitions in Tobago. Now, stepping out of the ordinary and into the realm of vast possibility, the young singer who is quite intrigued by all aspects of music creation, is excited for the world to hear Thinking About You.

“This single was produced by Millbeatz Entertainment,” explained K.Kay, clarifying that the track was mastered by the highly reputable, Precision Productions. He highlighted that Thinking About You is reminiscent of the days when reggae music could reach out and touch the soul of any listener. Its message is also quite distinct and with strong production and masterful musical mastering, there’s no doubt that this track will offer the breakthrough both K.Kay and his vocal partner, Sparkles have each been seeking. “ This song is about love. It’s a feeling we all experience at some time or another. We live in a world plagued by negative happenings but there’s one positive word and feeling that could change all of that- and that word is love,” said K.Kay, explaining that the track’s lyrics will seek to promote more love and its melody will create that sweet vibe, capable of stirring up emotional feelings in the heart of any listener.

No matter the outcome this time around, the pair of Tobago songbirds is adamant that they will keep knocking on the doors at radio stations. They will work hard at promoting their music in every way possible and this is something that young Sparkles’ determined spirit will see her through. K. Kay has always loved music and this latest contribution is proof of that. The track’s smoothness is unlike anything heard in recent years and according to both vocalists, Thinking About You is just the reggae track to infect anyone’s life with the right energy that’s needed in an often chaotic world. Persons wishing to get a taste of the track, can do so by checking out the url: http://mad.ly/8eb082.

Kelly, a master songwriter, record producer and performer will ignite New York City with musical flames on Sunday July 1st when he headlines the annual “Groovin In The Park” concert at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens. Lovers rock king Beres Hammond, Jimmy Cliff and Boyz 11 Men will join Kelly as performers at the festival.

International recording artist Lady Saw tells us about her new album ‘Marion Hall – The Alter Ego,’ including some of the heavy hitters she collaborated with. The album is very different to what fans are expecting as the icon states “there’s a little bit of Jazz and Blues, there’s Gospel and just plain good music.” Lady Saw also opens up on what it is to be one of the few female producers in the industry.

Fast Fact: Is the song “Love Mih Mate” based on a true story?! Lady Saw gives us the answer raw!

The Queen of Dancehall Soul, Cherine has quietly been on a mission, actually two missions. The first is working with youths; giving them her time and attention and showing them that the world is theirs with lots of options. This part of her work is being done through her foundation, The Reach One Child Foundation, which apart from music is her heart.

Cherine’s second mission is her music! She has toured, performed, written and sung for her fans which is reflection of her heart. The Dancehall Soul Songstress has given us music of inspiration at a time when Jamaica needed it most, and she co-signed with Danielle a.k.a. D.I. for ladies who needed a Dancehall anthem! Don’t miss our exclusive sit down with Cherine!

Gramps Morgan is a member of Reggae music’s Royal family, the Morgan’s, and is also an accomplished solo artist. His newest disk Reggae Music Lives has critics around the world excited!

Growing since the release of his first album 2 Sides of My Heart, Gramps shares insight to why he chose to work with different producers, the importance of his relationship with the Creator, being Jemere Morgan’s Dad and why the murder of Trayvon Martin touched him deeply. Gramps opened up on these topics and more.

Warrior King is a man of deep spirituality and can only be compared to good food. Musically, the King nourishes the mind, body and soul with his deeply conscious lyrics and genuine concern for the well being of his listeners. Our interview takes readers on a view of the Kings heart and more!

Jus Bus is one of the Caribbean’s most highly rated producers. His remixes are favourited by club DJ’s the world over, and his riddim compositions puts artists in international rotation. Tricia Spence sat down with the producer and learned there is so much more to the producer than music, yet all roads lead to the recording studio! This interview is a must read as there is only one Mr. Nation, and he Jus Bus!

In Fashion news, Heike Wollenweber brings us news of Yahdie Conscious Fashions and we take a look at popular runway designs from Toronto’s Fashion Week.

In our mini features section, we profile the talents of K..Licious recording artists Malica, Italis and Dre Zee; we also share feedback and reviews on Marley the documentary as well as newly released music from Busy Signal, The Nazarenes and the 1st Quarter Riddim produced by Tony CD Kelly.

Jerome Dupont from Neu Era Photography goes outdoors to the woods with Ms. May, Desyray Keizer to combine his creative eye with the beauty of Desyray! Makeup was provided by Michal May, Stylist Johnakeshia Thompson and Hair provided by Shawn Lamar Daniels – this centerfold is a must see!

Our profile DJ of the month is Canada’s own Ticky Ty who spins sets that not only get the audience moving, but get her moving within the audience too! Frequenting some of the hottest clubs in the city of Toronto and beyond, Ticky’s signature hair, her funky vibe and awesome spinning make fans come back for more!

Additional highlights include music news on the Jackson Unity Tour, Travel to South Africa, Music Charts from the Caribbean and Canada, the John Coltrane Rehabilitation project, Sound Clash R.E.S.E.T and more!

All of this and more at www.L3Magazine.com on Friday May 4th, 2012!