ROAD Town, Tortola – TRANSFORMERS’ star and R&B singer Tyrese Gibson will make his debut appearance in the Caribbean when he performs during the Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta in Tortola.
The Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta will begin on Thursday, August 6 and ends on Saturday, August 8.
According to a press release, Chairman of the Committee Stuart Donovan said they are delighted to add a twist to this year’s festival with the inclusion of the R&B artiste.
“And we are confident that people will appreciate it,” he stated.
Gibson will be performing on the last evening of the festival [Saturday] while international reggae artiste Maxi Priest will also be a part of the event and will take centre stage on Friday, August 7.
That day is also considered to be a family day, with family-oriented activities in full swing including donkey races, tug-o-war, children’s races and plait pole before Extreme Band, Bunji Garlin and Fayann Lyons join Maxi Priest onstage in the evening.
The power boat races, sponsored by Synergy, will lead off Saturday’s daytime events, which culminates with performances from Jamsey P, Jalena, Rudy, Showtime Band, Shurwayne Winchester and Tyrese.
The committee has always been famous for the cultural aspects and this year is no exception. Donovan said that apart from the cultural presentation and torch light procession, the committee is planning to have a mini-museum opposite the Festival Ground where the ruins of a slave plantation still stand.
The lists of slaves who were enslaved on that plantation circa 1818 will be on display along with other artifacts used during that period.
“We thought this would also pique the interest of persons and add a touch of authenticity to our cultural programme,” the Chairman disclosed.
Prior to the opening ceremony, which will commence at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, fishermen will bring in their haul and battle for trophies and prizes in the annual Fisherman’s Tournament.
This year’s tournament will be held in honour of Hezekiah Stoutt, a 74-year-old fisherman, who hails from Long Bay and still enjoys his fishing expeditions.
Admission on Thursday is free while admission on Friday and Saturday is US$20.
