Basseterre, St. Kitts (November 10, 2004): "It’s time for everyone to get involved in celebrating carnival." That message was stressed by National Carnival Chairman Allister Williams.

Williams told SKNIS that his committee’s continuing effort to reach out to stakeholders has resulted in innovative ideas which greatly complement the traditional activities.

This year a number of shows have been planned by private individuals in collaboration with the carnival committee. December 3 marks the debut of ‘Kittitian Fete.’ This initiative is organised by Barry Cranston and will be held each Friday up to December 24. It features appearances by local and regional acts at Netball City.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ Band-a-Rama Competition pitts brass bands in the Federation against each other to determine which is better. Hanzel ‘Richie’ Buntin is the coordinator of this event slated for December 21 at Carnival Village.

Another collaboration will feature Jamaican reggae artiste Gregory Isaac along with homegrown talents Masud Sadiki and Crucial Bankie in concert. This takes place on New Year’s Day.

The 2004-05 National Carnival will be celebrated under the theme "It’s My Time Now." Chairman Williams noted that the theme reflects high participation.

"While every effort is being made to maintain fundamental characteristics of traditional carnival celebrations, innovations designed to foster wider participation and greater opportunity for collaboration amongst the National Carnival Committee and the wider community have been considered in finalising this year’s programme," he said. The chairman added that these innovations will inject new enthusiasm and increase the appeal of national Carnival to a larger audience.

The 2004-05 national carnival will be launched on Friday, November 12 at the Circus at 5:00 p.m.