GRAND LAUNCH – New theme for 2014 Spicemas revealed

Culture Minister, Sen. Brenda Hood,
launching Spicemas 2014.

By Linda Straker

Culture Minister, Senator Brenda Hood, has announced that “Uniquely rooted in our rich ancestral traditions, Spicemas 2014... An Explosion of Calypso and Soca” will be the theme for this year’s Carnival celebrations.

She made the announcement last Saturday at the Port Highway while delivering an address to officially launch the start of the 2014 celebrations. At the May 6 media launch, it was announced that “Spicemas 2014 – the Mecca of Calypso and Soca” was to be the theme, but Hood said that following that announcement, there were many concerns expressed from the general public and as a result, a review was done to adopt a new theme.

Hood, who is no stranger to the Culture Ministry and over the years is among the few ministers of Government to actually adorn with a costume and parade on the streets, appealed to persons to play in a band for the final two days of parading on the streets.

“Find a costume of your choice and have great Spicemas experience,” she said to those who came out to witness the opening ceremony, which featured parading of Traditional Mas such as Shortknee, Vieux Croix, Moko Jumbie, Jab Jab, a performance from the 2013 Panorama champion as well as performances from reigning Calypso Monarch Keturah George and soca artistes.

The Moko Jumbie at the Carnival launch.

Chairman of the SMC, Alister Bain, reminded persons that the Queen show will be back on the agenda for 2014, despite the change in venue for the major events because of the unavailability of the National Stadium.

Many persons participated in the opening ceremony,
which featured parading of Traditional Mas.

With regards to sponsors, he said that LIME, despite its reduction in cash support, will continue to be the platinum sponsor for Soca Monarch and National Lottery Authority for Panorama. Both companies will be providing EC$180 000 and EC$352 000 respectively. The Grenada Broadcasting Network will be the official media and advertising platform with support of EC$80 000. Other sponsors include: George F. Huggins, Grenada Distillers, Colombian Emeralds and Westerhall Rum.