The private sector is being urged to provide greater support to smaller masquerade bands as Barbados’ premier summer festival continues to grow and evolve.
Vice-president of the Barbados Association of Masqueraders (BAM), Anthony Layne made the appeal during Thursday’s launch of the Flow Grand Kadooment powered by TV 8, stressing that sponsorship needed to extend beyond the larger, more established bands.
“We ask you to continue supporting our bands, not only the large recognizable names, but also the smaller and emerging bands that contribute just as meaningfully to the richness, creativity and diversity of this festival,” Layne said.
He noted that many of the smaller bands are operated by young entrepreneurs, designers, artisans and creatives who are passionate about masquerade and committed to building sustainable businesses within the cultural industry.
Layne explained that sponsorship remains critical to helping bands offset the high costs associated with producing costumes and staging presentations.
“Your sponsorship and investment can make the difference between an idea remaining a dream or becoming a successful part of the Crop Over experience.
“Sponsorship is vital because it helps to offset the true cost of costumes, materials, labour and production. Without that support, participation can become financially difficult for many Barbadians,” Layne maintained.
“We must continue working together to make masquerade more accessible and affordable to the average Barbadian because Crop Over belongs to all of us.”
Describing the festival as much more than entertainment, Layne pointed to its wider economic impact across several sectors.
“The festival is more than feathers, music and celebration. It is an important part of our national identity and a major contributor to economic activity across several sectors from entertainment and tourism to fashion, food, transportation and small business development,” he stated.
Layne also welcomed what he described as a resurgence in participation among masquerade bands for Crop Over 2026.
“The renewed interest and participation this year are encouraging signs that mas continues to thrive and evolve,” he said, adding that the increase in bands reflects the “passion, resilience and creativity” of bandleaders, designers, artisans and masqueraders.
He further praised the return of Cohobblopot and Party Monarch to the Crop Over calendar this year, saying their inclusion adds to the excitement and cultural richness of the season.
“These events have long been important parts of the festival experience and their return adds to the energy, entertainment and cultural richness that Barbadians and visitors alike look forward to every season,” Layne said.
(SB)
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