Photos by Melissa Charles
The National Park was transformed into a colourful spectacle yesterday when thousands turned out to celebrate Emancipation Day observances put on by the African Cultural Development Association and others.
Quite a few members of the diverse crowd were attired in African-wear, with many of them clearly making an effort to fashionably celebrate the day.
Although the crowd could be described as disappointing in the earlier part of the afternoon, it visibly grew as the day wore on. The disappointing size of the initial crowd was noted by one drummer, who gave his name as Adrian. He told this newspaper that he had been performing at the Emancipation day event for many years but said that the crowd was much smaller in the mid-afternoon when compared to previous years. This, however, did not stop him from beating his drum and singing his folk songs heartily as he provided wholesome entertainment for those who cared to stop his way.
There were also several booths on display exhibiting facts about African culture while others had displays of clothing, jewellery and ornaments. Food bars were also prevalent with many selling traditional African foods such as konki, cook-up rice and black pudding along with other local favourites. The crowd, though, seemed much more interested in having a good time, with many taking the time to enjoy the music or the company of family and friends than be engrossed in the booths.
As the afternoon progressed, the fast growing gathering was treated to a cultural display where dances, songs and other items were performed by local artistes. Performers included the dancers from the X-factor dance troupe, The National School of Dance and singers such as Celeste David, Lisa Punch, and Alabama were among those that graced the stage.
President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, his wife Yvonne Hinds and Leader of the Opposition Robert Corbin were among those gathered for the cultural display.
