TORONTO CARIBBEAN CONNECTION presents for Scotiabank Caribana 2008 "VISIONS-thru one's eyes"

TORONTO CARIBBEAN CONNECTION

presents for Scotiabank Caribana 2008

"VISIONS-thru one's eyes"

(7 sections)

Mas camp at 1970 Ellesmere Rd Unit 2

Phone 416-289-1700 email: visionstcc@aol.com

Register before June 30, 2008 get a free Visions t-shirt

Mas in Yuh Rass... who to jump with?

Over the past weekend, two more big bands launched their presentations (Saldenah Mas-K & Evolution Toronto) and either did not dissappoint.

With only a couple Mas Bands still left to launch (including Mas Toronto & Toronto Caribbean Connection; launching this weekend - June 7), Toronto revellers not only have a vast selection to choose from, but will have the difficult task of deciding who they should 'JUMP UP' with.

Masqueraders usually factor in several elements before making a decision on who they should 'chip' down the Lakeshore with; including cost, music on the road and parade position.

Below is the most updated listing of Mas Bands along with all their details. Most bands today are 'All-Inclusive', but of course as you may know it is illegal to advertise such perks in Ontario. You may wish to inquire with your bandleader and section leader before registering.

Also listed below are the Steelbands performing at the parade. Click on the link to view contact info if you wish to particpate or visit the panyards.


:: Toronto CARIBANA Mas Bands 2008 ::
(in order of appearance)

Parade Position: #1
Borokeete Canada (Frank Ramsaroop)
2008 Presentation:"HIDDEN TREASURES"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: 7
Costume Price: $100.00 - $130.00
Kiddies Costumes: $50.00
Mas Camp Location: 363 Bering Ave, Etobicoke (South of Bloor St /East of Kipling Ave S.)
Mas Camp Hours: 11am-11pm (open from June 7)
Phone: 416-234-1551 905-823-2795
Email: info@borokeetecanada.com
Website: www.borokeetecanada.com
2008 Launch Date: Sat May 3rd @ Clarkson Community Centre
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #2
Tribal Knights (Dexter Seusahai)
2008 Presentation: "DEEP RISING"
Music on de Road: Blaxx (from Roy Cape), Mr Playhouse, Eternal Vibes (Miami), Giselle D Wassi One (Miami), Crystal Vibez, Platinum sounds (New York), Jason Chambers (FLOW 93.5FM), De Outlawz, MarXman (KOS)
Number of Sections: 9
Costume Price: $140 $220+ (Frontline)
Kiddies Costumes: FREE with registration of adult costume
Mas Camp Location: 2410 Lawrence Ave East, Unit #16 (Lawrence & Kennedy)
Mas Camp Hours: Sun-Thur 1pm-8pm, Fri and Sat 1pm-12am
Phone: 416-396-3780 (camp) 416-893-1867 (cell)
Email: carnivalartsent@hotmail.com
Website: www.TribalKnights.com
2008 Launch Date: May 17 '08 @ Kool Haus (132 Queens Quay E)
Launch Photos: toronto-lime.com/pictures/fetes/2008/080517_soca_or_die_pt1/

Parade Position: #3
Carnival Nationz (Curtis Eustace)
2008 Presentation: "PIRATES"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: 9
Costume Price: $155
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 533 McNicoll Ave
Mas Camp Hours: 7pm-10pm weekdays 2pm-6pm weekends (open from June 7)
Phone: 416-676-6504 416-565-4079
Email: fortressnorth@hotmail.com
Website: www.CarnivalNationz.com
2008 Launch Date: May 24 '08 @ The Solarium
Launch Photos: toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2008/080524_carnival_nationz_launch

Parade Position: #4
Toronto Revellers (Jamaal Magloire)
2008 Presentation: "ALKEBU'LAN - BEYOND THE NILE"
Music on de Road: T&T Sounds, Dr. Jay, DJ Chief, Soca Monarchs and more
Number of Sections: 11
Costume Price: $150 (Frontline: $350 and up)
Kiddies Costumes: 6 Sections ($55 - $75 depending on size)
Mas Camp Location: 1320 Ellesemere Rd, Scarborough, ON M1P 2X9
Mas Camp Hours: Daily 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Phone: 416-412-1424

Email: carnival@jamaalmagloire.com
Website: www.TorontoRevellers.com
2008 Launch Date: May 10 '08 @ Armenian Comm. Centre (45 Hallcrown Place)
Launch Photos: toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2008/080510_toronto_revellers_launch

Parade Position: #5
Toronto Caribbean Connection - TCC (Mervyn Skeete)
2008 Presentation: "VISIONS-THRU ONE'S EYES"
Music on de Road: DJs Bad Lad, Audiotainment, Soca Supreme, Stretch da Real Ting
Number of Sections: 7
Costume Price: TBA
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 1970 Ellesmere Road, Unit # 2, Scarborough
Mas Camp Hours: Mon to Thu 6pm-11pm, Fri & Sat 1pm-midnite, Sun 1pm-10pm
Phone: 416-289-1700 416-492-5584 647-295-5584
Email: moskeete@aol.com VISIONSTCC@aol.com
Website: www.tocarnival.com
2008 Launch Date: June 7th, 2008 @ Sugar Lounge
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #6
Callaloo (Marlon Singh)
2008 Presentation: "MAGIC OF THE ZODIAC"
Music on de Road: Kerwin Du Bois, Shal Marshall, Blaxx, Blazer Dan, Rita Jones, Ghetto Flex, JMC 3Veni, Foreign Bass (NY), DJ Shiva, BASS (89.5FM), Blackberry Soundcrew, DJ Spinz, Gemstone Int'l, Tony Soul (Miami)
Number of Sections: 10
Costume Price: $135 (Basic) $200 (Frontline)
Kiddies Costumes: Inquire @ The MasCamp
Mas Camp Location: 116 Howden Rd, Unit 3 (Off Lawrence Ave, West of Birchmount
Mas Camp Hours: noon - 11pm
Phone: 416-757-9MAS (9627) 416-576-0694
Email: marlonsingh@aol.com callaloocarnival@aol.com callaloo_mas@hotmail.com
Website: www.callaloo.net
2008 Launch Date: Sat Apr 26 @ Viva City
Launch Photos: toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2008/080426_callaloo_launch

Parade Position: #7
Mas Toronto (Errol Achue)
2008 Presentation: "HEROES"
Music on de Road: DJ Bad Lad , CG the Soca General and K.V Charles from T&T and more
Number of Sections: 8
Costume Price: $120.00 - $170.00
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: Tam Heather
Country Club - 730 Military Trail, Scarborough, (west of Morningside)
Mas Camp Hours: Mon-Thur 6-10:00pm Sat 6-11pm Sun 6pm-8pm
Phone: 416-282-7712

Email: info@mastoronto.com
Website: www.mastoronto.com
2008 Launch Date: Sat June 7th, 2008 @ Embers Banquet Hall
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #8
Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club (Louis Saldenah)
2008 Presentation: "THE DEEP"
Music on de Road: Dil-E-Nadan (from Trinidad) Soca Vibes, D'Enforcas, Soca Prophets, Soca 101, Wuk Up Productions
Number of Sections: 12
Costume Price: $140
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 1530 Birchmount Rd, (Just South of Ellesmere)
Mas Camp Hours: Daily noon-11pm (open from June 7)
Phone: mas camp 416-444-9118 cell 416-560-4419
Email: saldenah@hotmail.com
Website: www.saldenahcarnival.com
2008 Launch Date: May 31 '08 @ Embers Banquet Hall
Launch Photos: www.toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2008/080531_saldenah_launch

Parade Position: #9
Pleasure Players (Whitfield Balasco)
2008 Presentation: "WHAT CORTEZ SAW? AZTEC"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: TBA
Costume Price: TBA
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 45 Ernest Avenue
Mas Camp Hours: 11am-10pm
Phone: 905-568-9136
Email: werfamily2@hotmail.com
Website: N/A
2008 Launch Date: TBA
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #10
Nip Davis & Associates (Selwyn "Nip" Davis)
2008 Presentation:"SOMEWHERE IN THE ORIENT"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: TBA
Costume Price: TBA
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 60 Barbados Blvd, unit 4 & 5
Mas Camp Hours: 11am-midnight
Phone: 416-849-5988 647-426-3060
Email: nipdavis@hotmail.com
Website: www.nipdavis.com
2008 Launch Date: TBA
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #11
Jessie Matthews & The Calabash Company (Jessie Matthews)
2008 Presentation: "DANCING WITH THE STARZ"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: 6
Costume Price: $90 - $100
Kiddies Costumes: $55
Mas Camp Location: 85 Dynamic Drive, unit 2A, Markham (off McNichols/Markham)
Mas Camp Hours: 12noon - 12midnight (open from June 16th)
Phone: 905-470-2738 647-882-0037 416-283-2238 416 754 0955
Email: jessandconso@yahoo.ca
Website: www.jessiematthews.com myspace.com/calabashcompany
2008 Launch Date: TBA
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #12
Evolution Carnival (Andre & Ken Defreitas)
2008 Presentation: "EXOTICA"
Music on de Road: Renegades
Number of Sections: 6
Costume Price: $120
Kiddies Costumes: $50 or One free with One Adult registration
Mas Camp Location: 299 Campbell Ave, unit 1
Mas Camp Hours: Mon-Thu 12pm-6pm; Fri 12pm-8pm; Sat 12pm-10pm; Sun 12pm-7pm

Opening & BBQ: Sun June 22/08 @ 2 pm
Phone: 416-516-6357
Email: info@evolutioncarnival.com
Website: www.evolutioncarnival.com
2008 Launch Date: Saturday May 31 @ Lions Gate Lounge
Launch Photos: toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2008/080531_evolution_toronto_launch

Parade Position: #13
Mas Players Int'l (Courtney
Doldron & Roshan Toolaram)
2008 Presentation: "JEWELS of D'ISLES"
Music on de Road: DJ Hitman, Production Sounds & Calm
Number of Sections: 6
Costume Price: $80.00
Kiddies Costumes: $35.00
Mas Camp Location: 1780 Albion Rd. Unit # 5, next to Caribbean Temptation Rest. & Bar in the Albion-27 Plaza
Mas Camp Hours: Open from 6pm on weekdays, 1pm on weekends
Phone: Mas Camp 416-745-0542 Courtney 416-579-7875
Email: csdoldron@gmail.com
Website: hitmanentertainment.com ilovesoca.com
2008 Launch Date: Saturay May 31st @ Caribbean Temptation 416-744-2113
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #14
Phoenix (Troy Logan)
2008 Presentation: "RISE FROM THE ASHES"
Music on de Road: Dee Jay Lexx, Fire Kid Steenie, Greenz Connection
Number of Sections: 4
Costume Price: $120 (All-Inclusive) $200 Frontline
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 85 Dynamic Rd. #2A (Markham North above Finch/West on McNicoll to Dynamic)
Mas Camp Hours: Fri 7pm-2am Sat 3pm-10pm Sun 3pm-12am
Phone: 647-218-6812

Email: info@phoenixmas.com

Website: http://www.phoenixmas.com/
2008 Launch Date: Sat June 14th @ Palazzo Entertainment Complex
Launch Photos: N/A

Parade Position: #15

Russel / Jerry Jerome
2008 Presentation: "RHYTHMS"
Music on de Road: TBA
Number of Sections: TBA
Costume Price: TBA
Kiddies Costumes: TBA
Mas Camp Location: 2490 St. Clair Ave W, unit 2
Mas Camp Hours: TBA
Phone: 416-767-3873
Email: N/A
Website: N/A
2008 Launch Date: TBA
Launch Photos: N/A

Latest Bandlaunch Photo Galleries available on www.TORONTO-LIME.com

Steel Bands Appearing at 2008 CARIBANA Parade
(order of appearance to be announced at a later date)
AFROPAN STEELBAND

JESSE KETCHUM

PAN VIBRATIONS

METRO TONES

NEW DIMENSION

PAN FANTASY

PAN MASTERS STEEL ORCHESTRA

PANATICS STEELBAND NETWORK

SALAH'S STEELPAN ACADEMY

SILHOUETTES

ST. JAMESTOWN YOUTH ORCHESTRA
CLICK HERE FOR PANYARD INFO>>

Evolution Carnival Website Launched

Trinidad, Thursday October 11th, 2007 - The long awaited release of Evolution's website is finally here. Carnival revellers outside of TnT now have the opportunity to preview and register in Trinidad's newest premium all-inclusive Carnival band at http://www.evolution-carnival.com/. As promised costumes are priced under $2500 TTD.

Curtis Eustace and Faried Carvalho's 2008 Carnival presentation 'Colour of Imagination' features 12 sections, each reasonably priced between $2250-$2495 TTD ($375-$415 USD) all-inclusive. Frontline and individual costumes reportedly will also be made available for about $3200 and $6000 (respectively) for masqueraders seeking that extra flare.

Evolution is poised to give counterparts a run for their money as the new kids on the block have stepped into the Carnival arena with an unbeatable combination of stunning costumes and low cost.

For more information and to contact Evolution Carnival call 868-681-3512, 868-333-4379, 416-565-4079, 416-676-6504 or email fortressnorth@hotmail.com

Mas Camp Location: 73A Ariapita Av, Woodbrook
Mas Camp Hours: Mon-Fri 4pm-8pm Sat 1pm-8pm Sun closed
Website: http://www.evolution-carnival.com/

To view photos from Evolutions official launch at Zen Nightclub go to...
http://www.toronto-lime.com//pictures/carnival/2007/070921_evolution_launch

Mac Farlane launches Earth

Photo by Mariamma Kambon

Trinidad, Friday September 14th, 2007 - Not much fanfare surrounded the launch of Brian Mac Farlane's 2008 presentation of 'Earth - Cries of Despair, Wings of Hope' on an overcast morning at San Fernando Hill on September 13th, but the simplicity of the presentation was only the backdrop for the revelation of the most amazing costume designs thus far for Carnival 2008.

The invited were mostly media with Mac Farlane support staff and well wishers, all privileged to a first look at Earth. After a short media briefing, mud drenched characters led the way to the accompaniment of tambu bambu. In the distance a replica of the Earth seemingly rose from the remnants of a once quarried rock that is now the preserved majestic San Fernando Hill. As the Earth fell to the ground a figure clad in white robes, mask over the face was revealed, behind the mask was Brian Mac Farlane himself. A sea of painted and mud smeared brown cotton waves punctuated by protruding mud caked faces of the Earth characters were his milieu.

As Mac Farlane began his tale of The Earth the real story unfolded. The Earth has been damaged by elders, raped by the greed of humans who have ravaged its resources. In spite of this the planet still wants to give life and there is hope for renewal in the children of today. To this end Mac Farlane will join with children’s Band of the Year Rosalind Gabriel to present 17 sections; 13 adult sections representing Cries of Despair and 5 children’s sections portraying the Wings of Hope. On Carnival Monday masqueraders will be wrapped in cloth and bathed in mud while on Tuesday yards of fabric, parched, cracked and dry with mud will be pulled throughout the band to signify the Earth begging for water.

Registration opens to the public today (Sep 14) at the Mas Camp located at 49 Rosalino Street, Woodbrook, Trinidad. Mac Farlane Loyalty Card Holders are invited to register from Friday September 14th to Sunday September 23rd. New Band Members are invited to register from Monday September 24th. Mas Camp hours are from Monday to Saturday 11am to 8pm; Sundays and the Republic Holiday 3pm to 8pm

For more info about Mac Farlane's 2008 presentation 'Earth - Cries of Despair, Wings of Hope' and to register online, please visit http://www.macfarlanecarnival.net/. The Mas Camp phone numbers are 868-628-4168 and 868-628-1274

Photos from the launch are available at...
www.toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2007/070913_macfarlane_launch

EUSTACE AND CARVALHO TAKE THE NEXT STEP, BRINGING COLOURS OF IMAGINATION TO CARNIVAL 2008

Photo by Calvin French

September 11, 2007 – Legendary bandleaders Curtis Eustace and Faried Carvalho are preparing to launch Colours of Imagination in Trinidad on September 22, with their first Carnival band, Evolution.

Carrying on a tradition of excellence and innovation, Eustace is confident that Colours of Imagination will be a unique addition to the Carnival. “We have always brought a different style, and introduced a lot of technology into carnival,” said Eustace. “How we build our costumes, the weight of the costumes, the size…the engineering… hydraulics: there are a lot of things we’re introducing to the arena.”

In order to comfortably accommodate masqueraders of all shapes and dimensions, Colours of Imagination will proudly feature a variation of costume styles for women. “We want to cater to everybody,” said Eustace.

Carvalho told the Trinidad Guardian newspaper, “Not every woman could go to the gym and get buff. This band is also for the mother who just wants a break from her kids for two days.”

Curtis Eustace, along with his brother Marcus Eustace, is also the band leader of Toronto’s Carnival Nationz, who took home the band of the year title two years in a row, after their inaugural Caribana appearance in 2005. In 2007, Carnival Nationz took home most of the Caribana titles at the King and Queen show at Lamport Stadium. While Eustace has also received the King of Carnival title eight times in Trinidad – tying Peter Samuel as the all time winner – the Evolution band is a Carnival first.

“Trinidad is going to be a big stepping stone. It is the next step in the Eustace name,” said Eustace, whose father, the late Tedder Eustace, was a three-time Carnival King in the seventies and eighties. “I have a nice committee with me, and with their help, I think we should be successful.”

“We’ve accomplished Kings, Queens, Individuals, Toronto, Miami; Trinidad is the biggest step, and the last step to complete the circuit.”

Evolution will launch their 2008 Carnival presentation 'Colours of Imagination' on Saturday September 22nd at Pier 1 (Chaguaramas, Trinidad). For more information, please call 416-565-4079, 416-676-6504 or 868-333-4379.

Unleash your Animal Instinct - Island People 2K8 launched

Unleash your Animal Instinct - Island People 2K8 launched
by Saucy Diva

Having received my invitation to Island People’s launch the day prior to the big event I was most excited for the prospect of viewing costumes up close as I was afforded access to the VIP and backstage areas. The first thing I noticed upon arrival at the Jean Pierre Complex , was the massive stage constructed that was stark white; I later learnt that the décor was deliberate as the costumes were to stand out amidst the pure white background.

Backstage it was as if I were in the middle of a costume wonderland surrounded by fantastic, jaw dropping costumes that could rival any samba school in Brazil with an abundance of plumage and little of anything else!! Sooner than I could blink and eye to process the bounty of statuesque models in these wickedly sexy costumes it was time for the show to begin.

Opening to a thunderous applause Black Widow Spider, designed by Sonia Mack, started the presentation by being the first section on stage. The concept of the theme Animal Instincts, we were told, is to bring out the animal inside and the twelve sections that were portrayed did just that. Models crawled, slithered and growled their way around the stage sporting special effect contact lenses and dramatic makeup which added an eerie primal look that enhanced the presentation that much more. I was treated to costumes from sections Red Tiger, Kingfisher Bird, Dragon Lizard, Polar Bear, Black Widow Spider, Great Egret, Portuguese Man O War, Lion and Lioness, Silver Fox, Cheetah, Zebra and Crocodile.

Judging from the positive response of the large crowd that was on hand to witness the show, I can only surmise that many people will be walking on the wild side for Trinidad Carnival 2008. Island People’s registration begins on August 27th.

More photos from the launch are available at:
toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2007/070818_islandpeople_launch

For more info go to http://www.islandpeoplemas.com/

Photos by Saucy Diva
(Click on thumbnails for
larger view)

Dragon Lizard

Silver Fox

Black Widow Spider

Carnival Nationz captures 3 out of 4 titles at the 2007 CARIBANA King & Queen Competition

Three number ones - Carnival Nationz winners at Lamport Stadium
from left: Tamara Alleyne-Gittens, Rudy Rampersad & Kurt Alexander

Carnival Nationz captures 3 out of 4 titles at the 2007 CARIBANA King & Queen Competition

Friday August 3rd, 2007 - Curtis Eustace's Carnival Nationz walked out of Lamport Stadium last night just shy of a clean sweep. The Nationz crew won three of a possible four titles (King of the Bands, Queen of the Bands, Male Individual of the Year) and placed 2nd in the Female Individual category.
Tamara Allyene-Gittens was succesful in defending her 'Queen of the Bands' title and now has back-to-back wins in her very first two Caribana appearances. Co-masquerader Rudy Rampersad, also undefeated in two years now extends his all-time 'King of the Bands' record to 11 victories. The 'Male Individual of the Year' went to new-comer Kurt Alexander (also of Carnival Nationz), and Joanne Boisson of Borokeete Canada spoilt the clean sweep by capturing the 'Female Individual of the Year'.

The unoffical results from lasts nights competition are as follows:

Female Individual of the Year
1. Joanne Boisson - 'Gateway to Atlantis' (Borokeete Canada)
2. Rebecca Kerr - 'The Fire Dancer' (Carnival Nationz)
3. Cyrese Pounall-King - 'Andromcia - Subduer of Men' (Tribal Knights)
4. Monica Lewis - 'Travelling' (Nip Davis & Assoc)

Male Individual of the Year
1. Kurt Alexander - 'The Master of the Seals' (Carnival Nationz)
2. Andy Charles - The City That Never Sleeps' (Toronto Revellers)
3. Gaelen Sidney - 'Dreamscape: Limbo of the Lost' (Evolution Carnival)
4. Shane Richards - 'Cold Fusion' (Caribbean Connection)

Queen of the Bands
1. Tamara Alleyne-Gittens - 'Abracadabra' (Carnival Nationz)
2. Carol Cuffie - 'A Nubian Queen' (Arnold Hughes & Assoc.)
3. Susan Low - 'Lady Shanghai' (Evolution Carnival)
4. Betty Toni - 'D' Rising of the Phoenix' (Tribal Knights)

King of the Bands
1. Rudy Rampersad - 'The Ring Master' (Carnival Nationz)
2. Ronnie Devignes - 'Spirit Hawk - Chief of the Pow Wow' (Mas Toronto)
3. Dexter Seusahai - 'Toharqa: King of the Tribe' (Tribal Knights)
4. Satish Narinesingh - 'The Shaman Rising' (Pleasure Players)

Photos and video clips are available at:
http://www.toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2007/070802_kings_and_queens

Jamaal Magloire's Toronto Revellers win 'Band of the Year' in their CARIBANA™ Junior Parade debut

Saturday July 21st, 2007 - In his very first time competing in the CARIBANA™ Junior Parade of the Bands, Jamaal Magloire managed to beat out close rivals Jessie Matthew's Calabash Company (2nd place) and Dexter Seusahai's 'Tribal Knights' (3rd place and also a new comer to the competition).

Magloire's Toronto Revellers competed for the first time at last years adult CARIBANA™ parade and placed a respectable 5th. The now very popular 'Revellers' are expecting even better results come this August 4th as they take to the streets with a record 1500+ masqueraders.

For more on Toronto Reveller's 2007 Presentation 'VIVA LAS VEGAS' visit http://www.torontorevellers.com/

Photo's from the 2007 CARIBANA Junior Parade of the Bands are available at... www.toronto-lime.com/pictures/carnival/2007/070721_caribana_junior_parade

Toronto Revellers at the 2007 CARIBANA™ Junior Parade of
the Bands

Jessie Matthews presents "RHYTHM OF LIFE" for CARIBANA 2K7

The Rhythm of Life tells a story of celebration in rhythm. This year's presentation begins with the story of a people, in the Rhythm of Africa and the Rhythm of India. The journey then moves to the rhythms we as people create. We celebrate the Rhythm Section and the Rhythm of Music.

Through the rhythms we are engulfed by the energy of a Jumbie Rhythm and find ourselves immersed in the Rhythm of Samba. The Samba leaves us spent so we retreat to the land to recover with the Rhythm of Nature. At the end our travels remain imprinted on our skin as we wear our travels proudly and celebrate unabashedly exposed. In our final celebration, we celebrate the Rhythm of The Earth to complete our celebration of the Rhythm of Life!!

Every culture in the world has it's own distinct and unique rhythm. From the beginning of time and human existence, rhythm has been used to express, indulge, communicate, nurture, soothe and excite. Although each rhythm is different, there is no denying the similarities in the ebb and flow of rhythmic sound as it punctuates our moments and aids in our expression as a people.This is the Rhythm of Life.

Mas Camp is located at Tropicana Community Services, 670 Progress AveCall 647 204-3689 or check myspace.com/calabashcompany or http://www.jessiematthews.com/.

Jumbie Rhythm

Rhythm of Africa

Rhythm of India

Rhythm of Music

Rhythm of Nature

Rhythm of Samba

Rhythm Section

Jamaal Magloire's Toronto Revellers registering record numbers for CARIBANA™ 2K7

Friday June 15th, 2007 - As the season draws near, Jamaal Magloire's CARIBANA™ presentation 'Viva Las Vegas' is seemly becoming a crowd favorite for 2007. Over the weekend, the Toronto Revellers Mas Band had reportedly over 600 registered masqueraders already signed up. That's almost double the numbers from last year, according to Jamaal.

Of the seven costume sections available, four are now sold out (Sin City, Casino Royale, Wedding Blitz & Showtime). The exceptional response is of no surprise to the CARIBANA™ sophomore's. The Revellers suprisingly placed a respectable 5th place at the CARIBANA™ competition in their inaugural year for 2006. In 2007, Jamaal Magloire has his eyes set on winning the big prize (Band of the Year).

Magloire credits much of this year's success to a new supporting cast which not only incorporates fresh young designers, but also includes key figures from the entertainment industry. The 2007 Toronto Revellers are joined by Caribbean Vibrations (OMNI TV program), Ian Andre Espinet (IAE Entertainment) and FLOW radio personality Dr JAY (SocaTherapy.com).

For more information about Jamaal Magoire's Toronto Revellers and to register with the band visit http://www.torontorevellers.com/.


Showtime (SOLD OUT)

Sin City (SOLD OUT)

Casino Royale (SOLD OUT)

Wedding Blitz (SOLD OUT)

Fan Dancer

Show Me The Money

Stardust

http://www.toronto-lime.com/news/news_2007_toronto_revellers_record_numbers.htm

The 'BIG TOP' expected to be the 'main event' at the 2007 CARIBANA parade as CARNIVAL NATIONZ jumps ahead of the pack

Hundreds lined up outside the CARNIVAL NATIONZ Mas Camp on opening day

Monday June 4th, 2007 -- As expected, a swarm of patrons lined up outside the CARNIVAL NATIONZ Mas Camp on Saturday afternoon to get first dibs on costumes by the CARIBANA favorites. Within hours of opening their doors to the public, three sections were sold out ('Aerialists', 'Cotton Candy', and 'Lion Tamers'), plus two others ('Acrobats', 'Jugglers') are also expected to be at peak over the next few days. Anticipating an early rush, the CARNIVAL NATIONZ crew was well prepared and signed up over 700 masqueraders by the days end.

According to committee member (Bryce Aguiton), several steps have been taken to improve the level of customer service, including the implementation of a custom registration software program and a new state-of-art website. The 2007 website will incorporate full flash animation and creative digital photography, along with a virtual 360° view of each costume (a feature never before seen amongst Carnival websites). The new website (http://www.carnivalnationz.com/) developed by Dreamscape Interactive is scheduled to launch on June 13.

In addition to receiving an all-inclusive costume package, each CARNIVAL NATIONZ 2007 registrant is entered into a draw to win a 2007 Pontiac Solstice Roadster (www.pontiac.com/solstice) from presenting sponsor FOSTER Pontiac Buick GMC. Also available to members is the 2006 CARNIVAL NATIONZ ON THE ROAD DVD. The 2007 version (currently being recorded) will include clips from the opening day, mas building and out-takes leading up the parade. 2006 DVD's are available for sale at the Mas Camp (533 McNicoll Ave).

For more information on CARNIVAL NATIONZ 2007 presentation "THE BIG TOP", call 416-676-6504 or visit the Mas Camp at 533 McNicoll Ave (just West of Victoria Park). Registration is available daily and Camp hours are from 7pm-10pm on weekdays and 2pm-6pm on weekends.

About CARNIVAL NATIONZ
Bandleaders Bryce Aguiton, Dwayne Pitt, Curtis Eustace and Marcus Eustace first introduced their mas band 'CARNIVAL NATIONZ' in 2005 and produced a masquerade band of over 700 participants. The inaugural presentation of CNz Inc. “This is Paradise” created history by being the only band ever to capture the most coveted Caribana award “Band of the Year” in its very first year. The following year, 2006, Carnival Nationz repeated the feat by successfully defended its “Band of the Year” title with a presentation entitled “V… La Copa Mundial” (celebrating the exploits of the SocaWarriors in Germany 2006). By this time the band had swollen to over 1,200 masqueraders.

The founding members of CARNIVAL NATIONZ combined have over 25 years worth of experience in marketing, targeting and promoting events specifically to the diverse and expanding Caribbean community within the GTA. Previously, this group has demonstrated an extensive track record of success in both small scaled ventures such as club based promotions (at such venues as The Docks; and The Guvernment Entertainment Complex), to large scaled projects that attract thousands of patrons, e.g. Unite de Nations (6,000 people annually on Canada Day @ Markham Fair Grounds).

CARNIVAL NATIONZ 2007 PRESENTATION: "THE BIG TOP"
“Ladies and Gentlemen can I have your attention please… we are about to unleashed a feast for your eyes to see… feats so great it will tickle your every fantasy… so hurry take a seat and ‘WELOME TO THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH… THE BIG TOP” shouts the Carnival Nationz ringer master. The magic of the circus instantaneously brings a smile to all our faces. It is one of those events that no matter your age, the thought of acts like: Acrobats; Lion Tamers; Siberian Tigers; Jugglers; Snake Charmers; Sexy Clowns; Aerialists; and Fire Dancers, plus additional attractions such as Cotton Candy, Gypsies and Wild Indians, conjures up images of some far away mythical land or age. But in 2007… the Carnival Nationz circus is very much a reality that is closer and more accessible to all. The spectacle and fun that are integral components of the circus will come alive on the road this Caribana as the Carnival Nationz circus rolls into town.

CARNIVAL NATIONZ 2007 COSTUMES
[Click on thumbnails for larger images]
Photography by PicsByRich.com


1. ACROBAT: In the world of circus the acrobat is the master of agility, balance and coordination. Short bursts of controlled activity with highly impactful skill mesmerizes the crowd and keeps them longing for more. Watch the feats of mind numbing artistry in the Carnival Nationz Big Top.


2. COTTON CANDY: Truly part of the quintessential experience of a visit to the circus, this form of spun sugar is worth every last scintillating drop. Watching it spin to perfection… taste so undeniably sweet… pretty in pink… eat ‘til your heart’s content and your belly burst with confectionary pleasures in the Big Top.

3. SNAKE CHARMER: Danger… beware… step gently and move slowly… the snake is dancing to the hypnotic rhythm of the snake charmer’s musical repertoire. But don’t be fooled by his mellow appearance, the charmer is in full control of this environment. Watch the snake dance the macabre dance… under the Big Top.

4. FIRE DANCER: A trail of flames… heat pulsating through their veins… rhythm as graceful as a ballerina… the fire dancer’s movements are precise… unparalleled by any other performer… the weaver of temporary glowing tapestries of artistic splendor. In the Big Top, the fire dancer ignites the masses and has them begging for more…

5. JUGGLERS: Throw… flip… twist… juggle. The Juggler with hands of glue and nerves of steel can catch your attention as easily as catch any object thrown their way. Their uncanny ability to manipulate balls, bags, knives, fire sticks and more makes these absorbing characters a fan favourite at the Carnival Nationz circus.

6. LION TAMER: The roar of the King freezes all in their stance… every step in the slow canter of the master of all the animal kingdom is watched anticipatingly with captivated eyes. The Lion… the beast is in the house and pay full attention for at any minute he may attack… save for the skills and imposing nature of the bravest man in the Big Top circus… the Lion Tamer. He controls the beast… he is fearless… he is one of the acts that separates the Carnival Nationz circus from the rest.


7. SEXY CLOWNS: Run, trip and fall… jump through hoops… be chased by wild animals… spill drinks and food on unsuspecting patrons…blow balloons into all kinds of unimaginable shapes and figures… the clown’s job is simply to be the master of entertainment. In the Carnival Nationz circus, our sexy clowns will go to all lengths and extremes to ensure that you leave the Big Top in a climactic state of pure euphoria.

8. WILD INDIANS: One of the original circus acts in the early 1900s, the Wild Indian or Circus Indian was both feared and revered. Skits that included chases, bare-back horse riding tricks and simulations of historic showdowns between cowboys and Indians, became staples on every major circus. In the Carnival Nationz Big Top, we have revived the legend of the Wild Indian and restored them to their rightful place among the circus’ most hallowed acts.

9. SIBERIAN TIGER: Though predominantly brown in colour as a species… the rare and elusive white Siberian Tiger is a priceless jewel of the Carnival Nationz circus. Ordinary is discarded… beauty beyond compare… smooth as silk… a seamless montage of white and black that makes this cat one of the most treasured attractions in the Big Top.

10. GYPSY: Palm reading… tarot cards… gaze into my crystal ball and let me tell you your future… but always beware the gypsy!! Foreseer of life’s journey, mystical bender of time and space… the gypsy has long been associated with the circus. These wandering souls of nomadic ancestry, with secrets and powers passed down from generation to generation, have the skills to spellbind you with their prophetic ramblings. In the Big Top, we predict they will be a huge hit.

11. AERIALIST: Defying the laws of gravity… hanging high overhead, these brave individuals balance and ability to maneuver at such heights with spine-tingling precision is frighteningly engrossing. We watch in awe… we breathe heavily with every step and movement… and we gasp at their death defying mid-air dangling tricks centre stage in the Big Top.