BY PAUL JUNOR
The band launch of the Toronto Caribbean Festival on Sunday, April 6th, 2024, at the Mystic Lounge and Bar in Brampton did not disappoint the patrons in attendance. The showcase of eight sections of costumes of the Costume Creators Mas Band (led by band leader Wayne Sewells) was well received by the captive and enamored patrons. The theme of the showcase was ” A New Hope.”
Prior to the showcase, there was a fashion show by TrendscHaz (a DJing Entertainment Group and a clothing brand). They sell hoodies, sweatpants, t-shirts, shorts, sunglasses and tracker hats. The promotional material states, “We currently sell clothing and accessories with inspirational quotes on them to remind consumers that any goal that you have set in place, you can achieve. It is a motivation booster as well as some of the most trendy styles.”
Their names of the sections and their leaders are:
- Make a Wish- Cayla Carroll
It was described as “New energy is coming, changes are happening, things are getting better, and blessings are aligning. The most fantastic, magical things can happen, and it all starts when you make a wish.”
- Imperial Oasis-Shaniqua Knowles
Costumes were created and designed by Sweetsz Carnival
After numerous trials and tribulations, we bring our own peace and take back our light from the dark past. The web of warriors is a section to embrace strength, confidence and courage. To be brave in blue!
- Twilight of the Lake – Natoya Campbell
These costumes reflect the glory of twilight on the lake.
- Azura – Shantel Hendrickson
Azura means nature. It stands for both male and female to express and reflect with nature as one entity. One with nature!
- Wanderlust- Desiree Bedur
Costumes were designed by Cloak Collective. They embody the essence of the Phoenix, representing the unquenchable thirst for exploration and discovery. With vibrant hues and intricate designs, each costume tells a story of cultural immersion and the excitement of venturing into new territories. As you do the Phoenix allure, you embrace the spirit of wanderlust.
- Lac Rose – Epic Standards
Where Black is beautiful, lies Lac Rose, a lovely pink lake in Senegal. The crystal beads represent the crystal beads representing the sea salt of the lake. Purple is a color of royalty.
- Awakening – Charnelle Pierre
Immerse yourself in the magic of transition as winter’s icy grips loosens and a vibrant tapestry unfolds before us. Embrace the shift as the dark winter retreats. A bright spring emerges in its wake. Every year nature writes the story of transformation, resilience and rebirth. Giving way to growth and talking about the revitalizing spirit of spring inspires you with new hope.
- Sisu @BLAZECarnival
Sisu has extraordinary determination, courage and resoluteness in the face of extreme adversity and has an action mindset which enables others to reach beyond their present limitations, take action against all odds and transform barriers into frontiers.
- Aeria-Wayne Sewell and Shaneka Brown
The: green, yellow and blue feathers with their gemstones and silver accents, symbolize a flying element in the sky with its captivating sight. Its brilliant feathers contrast with the blue expanse of the sky, signifying freedom, and beauty and showcasing the wonders of nature. It’s yellow, which indicates positivity, joy, enlightenment and a new hope.
These skillfully created and exciting costumes will surely delight those who chose to lay Mas with the Costume Creator Mas Band. They will not be disappointed. While this band is much smaller than the big bands (Carnival Nationz, Toronto Revelers and Saldenah), the quality of the costumes are of a high level. The precision, articulation and representation of visual images and setting are stunning.
The costume show was livestreamed at: www.youtube.com/nexusofculture/streams and www.nexusofcukrire.com/live
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