SPIRIT Mas provided children with an opportunity to learn about several core components of Carnival at the band’s inaugural children’s Carnival workshop at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s, on January 4.
The eager participants were introduced to, and received hands-on sessions in stilt-walking, songwriting, deejaying, make-up artistry, pan sessions, tiara designing, music theory and cultural dancing among other essential aspects of Carnival.
[caption id="attachment_1131442" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Anthony Phillips, left, and Serai Patrick look on as Ron Meyers of Roc Star Deejay Academy and Adrian Scoon, Spirit Mas CEO work the turntables.[/caption]
Conducting the interactive sessions were instructors from Invaders Steel Orchestra, Roc Stars Deejay Academy, Gossip Hair Saloon and Spa, among others.
Spirit Mas CEO Adrian Scoon was pleased with the large turnout of children at its first workshop, and believes the sessions augur well for youngsters who wish to explore Carnival-oriented careers.
[caption id="attachment_1131441" align="alignnone" width="1024"] TT Dance Company (SS Elite) performs at the Spirit Mas Children's Carnival workshop at Queen's Hall, St Ann's on January 5.[/caption]
“We take children who are in less fortunate situations or (are) orphans and bring them here for one day to interact and engage them and teach them about different aspects of the culture. It’s been pretty good, engaging and a fun way to learn. It’s like a career day for Carnival,” he said.
Scoon said the feedback had been positive after the over five-hours workshop.
“The kids have been very impressed and want to come back next year. They feel an emotional connection. We’re doing this for a genuine cause, and they feel that and understand that, and they’ve been very open-minded about the classes. I think it will leave a lasting impression on them in a very positive way.”
Scoon said Trinidad and Tobago is the mecca of Carnival globally and initiatives such as these help promote, develop, tap into, and even unearth our limitless creativity as Caribbean people.
[caption id="attachment_1131440" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Kanye Simmons, left, and Jeneala Ramdhan of Kaiso Kah Valencia Cultural Group have a playful moment at Spirit Mas Children's Carnival Workshop at Queen's Hall, St Ann's, on January 5.[/caption]
“A lot of times, some of these bands in different countries, they do not have the types of resources we do. Sometimes they might fly out a make-up artist, a pan side to go and perform in Europe or elsewhere.
“This is a viable and professional career choice. We’re a very talented and creative people. It’s just for us to foster that and keep that eco-system going as much as possible, and it’s our responsibility as a mas band to do that.”
Scotiabank supported the initiative and its vice-president and chief financial officer Reshard Mohammed address participants.
Mohammed said the bank was pleased to partner with Spirit Mas, whose planned activities aim to promote a spirit of national identity, communit