Spice Carnival Band off the road for 2014

Dear Spicequeraders,
It is with a heavy heart that we inform you that after months of careful consideration, we have decided that we will not be bringing out a presentation for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2014.
The Spice Management Team, as part of both our professional and personal growth and development, have embarked on some new projects for the upcoming year and we have realised that this will hamper greatly our ability to provide you with the level of quality product and service that you have become used to.
We have always believed in giving you, our masqueraders, 100 per cent dedication at all times and our new endeavours will not allow us to maintain this standard that we have set for ourselves and we would never want to short-change you in anyway.
While we are very excited to begin this new chapter in our lives, we are deeply saddened that there will be no Spice Carnival Band in C2K14. The last five years have been an incredible jour…ney and the happiest times in the lives of the entire Spice Team.
To you our masqueraders we say thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you to all our one time masqueraders and special thank you to our returning masquerades for making Spice your choice for Carnival. Thank you for your support… you all made us a success!
To our loyal masqueraders who have been with us since year one… what can we say, you are like family to us and we love you all and will miss you terribly.
However, this is not a ‘goodbye’ Spicequeraders, this is merely a ‘see you later’ as Spice Carnival Band will be back soon, even better than before! We started this band because of our love for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and it will be very hard for us to stay out of the industry for too long.
We hope that you all have a great Carnival 2014 and see you on the road for C2K1…!
Best Regards,
The Spice Team

Pound the Alarm – Nicki Minaj Official Video

I just watched the much anticipated Nicki Minaj video release of “Pound the Alarm”. From the very first second I was transported to as Kees so perfectly calls it “the only place I love”. Trinidad is represented in the beautiful place I always think of it as, with clips of all familiar places and the splendor that is our mas.

The mini Carnival is so perfect in timing as we are in full Carnival band launch season, and there is nothing I can say I don’t like about it! Great job Nicki and Benny Boom.

Yuma – Imagine…

Nothin’ but a teaser!

This morning the tiniest little costume image was circulating, I tried to see it on bbm to no avail. This afternoon this was video was released, so maybe now you have more to imagine? If you pause at 15 seconds and stare you can get a pretty good view of a second costume.

Bliss Carnival – Savage, Beautiful and Deadly

Now this is what a call a Preview Picture!

Butterfiles, Beasts and Bacchanal – Tribe Carnival 2013

Let me start this by saying this is my favorite Tribe presentation to date. Ole time something being my second favorite. The reason is simple, all together on the stage, it looks like MAS! It is not out of the box, over the top creative, but it is colorful, pretty and to the point of the theme. Yes it has been done before, and yes this is much younger, much sexier, it’s 2012 for goodness sake, nothing is how it “used to be”.

Below I have included the descriptions and photos from Tribe as well as a photo of the actual butterfly that the costume is to represent. Most of the costumes do an excellent job of portraying their namesakes. During my impromptu butterfly research I also discovered that the Issoria is actualy the Issoria Lathonia, which is known as the Queen of Spain butterflies. Interestingly I searched high and low for a “ray of light’ butterfly only to find that the closest thing to it is the butterfly ray/moth fish that looks very much like it’s costume counterpart. Papillon is the french word for butterfly, as well as the memorable 1982 presentation by Peter Minshall. I’ve included a picture of his presenation as the image embodies what I grew up thinking mas should look like and is why I’ve fallen for the stage presentation of Tribes 2013 launch.

The Keepers of the Kingdom

The Backpacks, Headpieces and Wings designed by Douglas John
Male Costumes designed by Gina Maingot & Kirk Jaimungal

DAGGERTAIL BY MONIQUE NOBREGA – FIERY: Feisty and fearless, thriving on independence, she lives life on the edge but still manages to keep her reputation and composure utterly flawless. She is sometimes described as wild by the butterflies closest to her as no one is ever able to anticipate her next move.

AFRICAN DAGGER TAIL BUTTERFLY

ADMIRAL BY MONIQUE NOBREGA – SCORCHING: Famous for her smoldering beauty, this butterfly is no stranger to fire as she flaunts around the kingdom, unafraid of scorching her fellow butterflies with envy. Watch out for her- this butterfly spits fire! [This section is promoted by Scorch Magazine]

PURPLE SPOTTED ADMIRAL BUTTERFLY

MADAGASCAN SUNSET BY MONQIUE NOBREGA - ROMANTIC: A hopeless romantic… always seeing the bright side of everyone and everything. She sees life through rose tinted spectacles and refuses to give up or her idealistic views on what love is. She is adamant that the right beast just hasn’t found her yet.

MADAGASCAN SUNSET MOTH

REGAL EMPEROR BY GAIL CABRAL – PASSIONATE: Brimming with enthusiasm, she is passionate and driven. She submits herself completely to any task she may have at hand and always performs to the very best of her ability, committing herself honorably and selflessly.
PURPLE EMPEROR BUTTERFLY -

ISSORA BY LANA NOBREGA – RACY: She is never quite able to sit still, is outspoken and fearlessly risqué! This butterfly unalterably puts herself in dangerous situations, mercilessly driven by her irresistible desire to tempt fate.

ISSORIA LATHONIA BUTTERFLY -

MONARCH BY VALMIKI MAHARAJ – FIERCE: Domineering and sometimes mistaken for aggressive, she is fierce and unapologetic; she utilizes her captivating beauty and her bold attitude to propel her way through life.
MONARCH BUTTERFLY – -

AZURE BY VALMIKI MAHARAJ – SENSUAL: A butterfly capable of arousing all the senses, she is a natural enticer, able to commandeer any beast without saying a word. Before he knows it, the beast will be at her feet ready to do whatever it takes to be in her favor.
AZURE BUTTERFLY -

KALLIMINI BY NINA ALCANTARA & MARIA ELENA JUTE- AFFECTIONATE: Affectionate and sincere, this butterfly is kind and painfully sweet. The other butterflies in the kingdom envy her for her subtle and innocent charm that allows her to captivate the majority of the beast’s hearts.
KALLIMA BUTTERFLY



PAPILO BY SOLANGE SHAW-GOPAUL – SEDUCTIVE: This seductress of the kingdom uses her sexuality to manipulate the beast to get exactly what she wants. She is undoubtedly one of the most seductive butterflies in the kingdom and flaunts this characteristic with confidence.
PETER MINSHALL’S PAPILLON -

COPPER PEACOCK BY MELISSA JAMES – FLIRTATIOUS: Frustrated beasts dub her a tease. She doesn’t see it that way though! She is fun and carefree, and she knows exactly what to do to entice the beast with her sweet and innocent demeanor without leading too much into temptation.

PEACOCK BUTTERFLY –

CRIMSON SPHINX BY SONIA MARCANO – SPIRITED: This butterfly lives life to the fullest. She is free spirited and not concerned about what society may think of her. She refuses to be tamed by any butterfly or beast. She floats through life without a care in the world and is the matriarch of spirituality in the kingdom of bacchanal.
SPHINX MOTH –

JEZEBEL BY SOLANGE SHAW-GOPAUL – EROTIC: Bold, raunchy and unforgiving, she utilizes her undeniable sex appeal to whip all of the beasts into submission, having them all trail behind her in awe.
JEZEBEL BUTTERFLY –

RAY OF LIGHT BY PETER ELIAS – BOLD: Fierce, bold and ferocious describe her. Butterflies and beasts alike envy her. She reigns with ultimate authority and respect, and sits at the right hand of the emperor.
SPINY BUTTERFLY RAY -

ACARA ACRAEA BY ANYA AYOUNG CHEE – ELEGANT: She is often described as irresistible and hypnotizing. She embodies class and elegance like no other butterfly in the kingdom. She is flawless and has an impeccable attitude to match. Be careful what you say around her, you want to stay in her good books.
ACRAEA BUTTERFLY –

For more amazing photos by Trinidad Carnival Photos check their facebook gallery HERE!!!

Paparazzi Band Launch Review

The band formerly known as “Pulse 8″ – “Paparazzi – Where the Red Carpet Meets the Road ” launched Sunday night at the Oval in Trinidad setting off the Trinidad Carnival 2013 costume band launch season!

The area of the Oval sectioned off for the launch was smaller than I expected, but it was cozy at the same time. There was a special red carpet viewing of the costumes for the media, where a very thorough detailed press packet and booklet was given out and in the meantime, the DJs played and the bar flowed freely. (Why are bartenders so unpleasant in Trini? Maybe because they don’t work for tips?) Anywho…on to the show!

The presentation was preceded by a short performance by Chucky, (I truly don’t remember him being so short!) and then the announcer stepped out and you could see the costumes assembling. The sections came out in a very orderly fashion and the flow of the presentation was seemless. There were no “to die for” selections and the male costumes were basic and run of the mill, but in all the showing was solid and I had a couple favorite female sections. The colour combinations were safe and predictable, all of which were easily reminiscent of a costume you may have seen before. I won’t knock that as a terrible thing, there are costumes in this band that if offered in the “Premeire” bands they would sell out instantly. My favorites are Golden Globes, Scandal and Opulence frontlines, and I do love the look of Hot Hollywood’s frontline as well, white just isn’t a personal favorite of mine.

At the end of the presentation, we were treated to Kimba and Kees and all in all it was a nice launch, with some people taking full advantage of the open bar and having a grand time!

There are 12 sections in the band:

Indecent Exposure – Turquoise & Orange – Designed by Karlene Ballah
Entourage – Pink – Designed by Leasel Rovedas
Scandal – Bronze- Designed by Ryck Alexander
French Connection – Black – Designed by Karlene Ballah
Hot Hollywood – White – Designed by Sandra Hordatt
Obsession – Burgundy – Designed by Karlene Ballah
Golden Globes – Gold – Designed by Leasel Rovedas
Star Struck – Yellow – Designed by Karelene Ballah & Chad Wharton
Red Carpet Ready – Red – Designed by Leasel Rovedas
Uncensored – White – Designed by Natalie Black O’Connor
Opulence – Green- Designed by Karlene Ballah

Click HERE for pictures from the launch.

The Band House is located at 22 Murray Street in Woodbrook and will cater to 2000 masqueraders 75% female and 25% male ranging from the ages of 25 and up and with an expectancy of 80% local masqueraders and 20% overseas masqueraders. The website is http://www.paparazzicarnival.com and they can be reached by email at info@paparazzicarnival.com or by telephone at (868)773-7029.

Bamabac Crew is said to be having an additional launch separate from the band where they will be presenting their individual costume, you can get details for that HERE on their facebook page

Carnival Nationz Toronto Presents – Empires

EMPIRES – CARNIVAL NATIONZ BAND LAUNCH

Venue:Sound Academy

Tickets:
Play-De-Record (Downtown) 416-586-0380
Charlie’s (Mississauga) 905-896-3663
Nicey’s (Brampton) 905-450-6045
Drupati’s (Etobicoke) 416-745-4189
Drupati’s (East) 416-289-9988
Island Mix (Pickering) 905-831-1649

Information: Show time @ 12am SHARP. Expect the Carnival Nationz Grandeur!

Fantasy Carnival Costume Fast Track

This was in my email this morning. Just sharing!

Hello Angels,
Greetings from the Fantasy Carnival team!

As we kick off the 2012 carnival season, we would like to wish all our masqueraders a prosperous and happy new year!

Please note that we are offering the Fantasy Fast Track option, whereby, masqueraders who choose to pay off their costume in full now will benefit from the Fantasy Fast Track Line on their scheduled distribution day.

How it works: On collection date, once your costume is paid for in full, you will be able to simply present your registration card together with the receipts, a copy of your ID, and away you go with your costume package! To take advantage of this option come on in and pay the remaining balance on your costume at the mas camp during the office hours:

Monday – Thursday 4:30p.m. – 7:00p.m.
Saturday 1:00p.m. – 4:00p.m.

The deadline for payment for the Fantasy Fast Track option is Saturday 28th January, 2012

Once again, welcome to your Carnival Fantasy!

Thank you!

Fantasy Carnival Team.

FANTASY
info@mycarnivalfantasy.com

MAS Jumbies – J’Ouvert 2012 Registration

All inclusive band 4 $350TT/$56US/$57CD Info & 2 register:
Marsha @ 868-462-4402 (T&T)
Mary & Annette @ 416-818-3788 (Cdn)
Cliva @ 347-920-7307 (NY) Natasha @ 914-374-5336 (NY)
TOG @ 832-881-7204 (Texas)
Sultan @ 757-971-2188 (VA).

Fast Tracks and Financing – Trinidad Costumes 2012

The deadline for Fastrack costume collection payments is December 23, 2011. This option is available only via in house payments (as it was last year). Fast track means priority collection and works best if you collect on the day your section is being distributed

As you know Yuma has a Fast Track system which gives you:
•Shorter wait time for Costume Collection
•Easier collection process
•Priority for collection at Distribution Centre

If you pay off for your costume in full, on or before December 23rd, 2011 you will qualify for fast track costume collection .
Also note the following: •Payments are ONLY accepted at our Mas Camp, #12 Alcazar Street.
•Mas Camp will be open from 2pm – 5pm, Tuesday to Friday
•Payments can be made ONLY via cash or TT debit cards

We’re in the season of giving so we want to give you some info as our Heroes are on-route to a ‘kick-ass’ Carnival 2012.

• To ease you up on the bills, we’re happy to offer Costume Financing- with approvals in just one day! We’ve teamed up with ISLAND Finance to offer affordable loans with easy, flexible payment plans. This offer has been uniquely designed with you in mind, so do as Machel say and Advantage it!
For more info contact Jhon Rae Collimore @ Island Finance at 822-6110 ext 6115

• Tertiary-Level Students don’t worry, we haven’t left you out! ISLANDpeople Mas is offering a Fully Matriculated Discount Plan where students receive $300 off their costume upon registration with their student ID. (Conditions apply)

• FasTrak is back! Once again, masqueraders (who pay in-full by 31st Dec) will benefit from speedy costume collection as they skip the casher line and go straight to the FasTrak counter at distribution.
Online masqueraders can ensure their FasTrak service by emailing info@islandpeoplemas.com to confirm that they have cleared their balance. Please be sure to include your full name, chapter and contact phone # in the email.

• We are happy once again to offer costume delivery to persons who pay in-full for their costume and the delivery service by 31st Dec 2011.
If you have registered, paid in-full and did not request costume delivery but would like to, please call the Mas Camp at 622-8145 or send us an email at info@islandpeoplemas.com

• In-case you missed it, carnival is in less than 75 days!! As usual, we’re gonna get you ready for the road with Fit-2-Play, our six week intense workout series. Look out for non-stop vibes, aerobics, floor-work, Taebo, spin, and even kickboxing to get those bodies in-shape. We gonna be posting the dates and venues soon.

• We’re glad you’re enjoying our ‘Head-to-Toe Hero Hook-ups’ on the FB fan page and we love giving tips to get your looks ‘in a gear’. Keep checking the page for more hook-ups and we’re gonna continue posting Behind the Scenes production videos from the camp.

• More Friday After-work Limes are coming-up in the next few weeks as well so keep checking in with the committee members for the dates and times. See you there!
ISLANDpeople Mas Heroes…it’s in all of us