Marionettes Chorale's premiere of "A Prayer for Peace II",

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO: “Christmas begins with the Marionettes”, say their loyal patrons. So Christmas begins this Friday 2nd December at the Queen’s Hall, when the Marionettes presents a concert with a difference: “Christmas with the Marionettes: A Prayer for Peace II”. This is the second instalment of the Marionettes’ “Prayer for Peace” series, the first being in 2001 after the events of 11 September. And this year, more than ever before, the Marionettes is working to usher in a spirit of peace, joy,
forgiveness and thanksgiving this holiday season. “A Prayer for Peace II” weaves Yuletide themes of celebration, hope, and peace through a mix of classical, spiritual, gospel, popular Christmas favourites and parang. Nine-time Cacique Award winner Cecilia Salazar also joins the cast, punctuating the musical programme with well-known texts and readings compiled by renowned journalist Jeremy Taylor. Also partnering with the Marionettes on this tremendous production are sponsors of 39 years, bpTT; and a decorated production team including Noble Douglas, Charlene Harris, Dave Williams, Margaret Sheppard, Randy Halfhide, Celia Wells, Franklin Agarrat, Leslie Clement, Desmond Waithe and Maureen Clement.

In collaboration with sponsors bpTT, the Marionettes will also present what is
often the highlight for Marionettes of the concert series: their traditional special
matinée on Saturday 3rd December, a free performance for senior citizens and
children from institutions across the island which care for some of our society’s
most vulnerable.
Over the last five years, the Marionettes has raised over TT$1 million for a wide
range of charities. This year, all proceeds from the entire concert series will
benefit not one but six important charities:
• the LoveUntil Foundation’s countless social outreach programmes that
provide care for abandoned children, battered women, HIV positive
patients, drug addicts, and many other people in need
• the La Madeleine Orphanage in Haiti’s rebuilding fund
• the fund for the restoration of a national monument, the Roman Catholic