Culture and community took centre stage on Saturday as We Gatherin’ St James rolled out its marquee event, the St James to de World Health and Wellness Extravaganza, at Trents playing field.
Catering to the entire family, there was a wide array of stalls offering everything from food to health tips and wellness activities.
The event carried the parish’s chosen theme of Cricket. Early on, a panel featuring historians and stalwarts Morris Greenidge, Hartley Richards, and Philo Wallace reflected on St James’ rich cricketing legacy, reminding all present of the parish’s deep ties to the sport.
A highlight of the night was the honouring of road tennis champion Sheldene Walrond, a proud daughter of Haynesville, St James. In her citation, MC Astra Babb described Walrond as “the embodiment of perseverance, strength, and community spirit,” adding that “her success is a beacon of hope for young people, not just in St James South, but across Barbados.”
As the evening unfolded, the stage came alive with a diverse musical showcase. Featured in this segment was Reniece Bonnett. She was followed by vocal powerhouse Skyy Dowridge, who was joined by Sisters in Harmony, for a rendition of Purple Rain. The Breaking Point Band, led by mother-and-daughter duo Peach Bless and Asanta Blossom, blended their vocals with an upbeat reggae set before Deejay Scott Le Roc kept the audience singing with a vintage segment of timeless classics.
They Mighty Gabby was among the entertainers.
The tempo then shifted into full soca mode with a star-studded lineup. The Mighty Gabby brought fire with Jack, Hit It and Dr Cassandra. He was followed by Adrian Clarke, who delighted with Soca You and Nice Time. Rising stars Quon and DoeJay energised the crowd with their Crop Over favourite Bartender, while Asanta Blossom returned to display her versatility with a soca track.
Shanta Prince represented for the ladies.
Shanta Prince also proudly carried the torch for the ladies, while Marvay electrified the stage with Know the Face, Push and Go Through and his most recent Sweet Potato.
Crowd favourite Shaquille GFG, this year’s People’s Monarch, had the audience moving with Asphalt, alongside solid sets from Stiffy, Fadda Fox, and Verseewild. The night built to a climax with a surprise mini-concert from Hypasounds, whose infectious performance drew the ladies straight to the dance floor.
Capping off the extravaganza was none other than the General Edwin Yearwood, who closed the show with a medley of his hits, sending patrons home on a high. With energetic dancers adding extra spark to each performance, the night proved a dynamic showcase of talent. (STT)
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