Fred Munnings

A large representation of the Junkanoo and cultural community recently attended a forum presented by Team Bahamas Carnival, in an effort to learn more about the scheduled carnival and its events. During the session held at the Office of The Prime Minister, Freeport, the vision and objectives of Bahamas Carnival were emphasized, as well as the economic opportunities that this initiative provides for all those involved.

Furthermore, media houses throughout the second city welcomed Team Bahamas Carnival as key updates were discussed regarding the scheduled events and entrepreneurial opportunities. The radio show tour included, Love 97 northern, ZNS Radio and Mix 102.1FM to cover a diverse demographic. The team comprised of Paul Major, Chairman, Roscoe Dames, CEO BNFC, Fred Munnings, Commissioner, Percy Francis, BNFC Technical Advisor, and Julien Believe, music artist and entertainer.

During the official meeting several attendees signed up for the recent song competition, while others provided their demo songs on the spot.

In response to “Why Carnival?” Paul Major noted, “Junkanoo is a fantastic display of our creative talents in every way. However, it has not created many economic opportunities for those who practice the craft. The mandate of BNFC is to create an economic stimulus for the entire cultural community. We have tried to find a balance with those who love culture so that we could work together to ensure we present the desired effect. Additionally he added, “We have every respect for our culture and we want to use Carnival Bahamas as a vehicle to promote those in our creative community.”

Carnival is a universal word, with a universal following which presents The Bahamas with an opportunity to present our unique and diverse talents on an international stage, and we plan to do that well, and we expect that every year, this will continue to grow,” added Major.

Further speaking to the economic opportunities that Bahamas Carnival brings, Roscoe Dames added, “An interesting statistic happens when you search for the top carnivals in the Caribbean. Trinidad, Crop Over and Grenada are mentioned with Junkanoo included as number four on the list.”

Roscoe Dames in Grand Bahama

Dames encouraged those artists who participated in the Song Competition, “If you have submitted a song for the competition, be prepared for the potential opportunity of international recognition to present itself. Have your management team in place, and have yourself ready for success.”

When asked about the musical component of Bahamas Carnival, Fred Munnings replied, “Music is perhaps the most effective way to promote any cultural expression. This is not just about a four day festival, The Bahamas Carnival will primarily benefit Bahamians. In particular, the creative community by stimulating sustainable economic opportunities in all aspects of the entertainment industry.”

He further stated, “We believe that the music will be one of the biggest driving forces of The Bahamas Carnival. We want all of our song writers to write, all of our musicians to compose and all of our artists to create,” Munnings passionately added.

Julien “Believe” Thompson added, “I am compelled as a young aspiring Bahamian artist that it is important to embrace and endorse The Bahamas Carnival because we have not been afforded opportunities in the past to showcase our talents on this level.” “This is an opportunity that could change your entire life,” said Thompson.

Freeport radio tour

Percy “Vola” Francis said “The Bahamas Carnival is powered by the engine of Junkanoo. Junkanoos will now be able to stretch their imaginations even further.” He explains “The Bahamas Carnival companies are business based. We will now have the opportunity to utilize the gifts and talents we use in Junkanoo to now prepare costumes for sale.”

Francis also added, “This Carnival will give us an inclusive environment where anyone from anywhere can come and participate and just jump in the street.”

“Everything about this experience will be a Bahamian experience,” emphasized Munnings. The countdown to Bahamas Carnival is on. Get ready, and get involved.

Carnival Bahamas is powered by Junkanoo and the rhythms of the Bahamian people. The Bahamas National Festival Commission’s vision is to be the catalyst for sustainable economic growth in the cultural industry sector. We are committed to executing, expanding our tourist product offering and to provide benefits across The Bahamas.

For further information, contact BNFC at (242) 356-2100 or email info@bahamasfestivalcommission.com

Local raw materials

Paul Major with Joan Davis Rolle