04262024 WEEKEND

Local comedians join awardwinning ‘Goombay Kids’ New season premieres this weekend

The award-winning Bahamian TV show “Goombay Kids” is set to debut its fourth season this Saturday.

The fantastical island adventure series, which boasts an all Bahamian cast, uses magical storytelling with educational tones to entertain both young and old. Over the years, it has reached new heights and mad history for the Bahamas and the region of the Caribbean.

In the upcoming fourth season, which will premiere first on OurTV, Cable Bahamas, viewers can expect to see some familiar faces from previous seasons.

The kids go on epic adventures while running into mythical characters straight from local folklore, like Mama D’Lo and Papa Bois, and meet more of the knowledgeable Goombay Kid Experts.

They find themselves on exciting quests with mermaids and pirates while learning about sea life, nutrition, the environment and cultures from around the world.

Also, viewers can expect to see friendly and famous faces like Timico Sawyer (Sawyerboy), Jaquay Adderley (DasQuay) and Zhane’o Newbold (Sarge), all appearing in this upcoming season. The season also has more original music, and dives into claymation and animated segments directed by award-winning Bahamian director Maria Govan.

Not only has the series won 14 international awards and has been recognised internationally, it can now be seen beyond Bahamian television and on up to 25 platforms in North America.

With this reach and multiple awards under its belt, the production has progressed further than any live action children’s show in the Caribbean.

“Goombay Kids” can be found on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire TV, the Happy Kids app, batteryPOP, Kabillion, GoogleTV, Redbox, Xumo, TiVo, SlingTV, Pavilion Plus and more.

The show has provided over 350 jobs to Bahamians and created opportunities that young local actors have never had before; to showcase their talents globally.

John Nolie of BatteryPop expressed his excitement to distribute the show, stating: “At batteryPOP, we’re thrilled to welcome the beloved ‘Goombay Kids’ brand and content onto our platform and to our users.

“Our respective missions align perfectly in providing children with safe, fun, enriching content, and digital experiences. The ‘Goombay Kids’ programming, with its unique characters and stories, brings their Caribbean cultural richness, diversity and an educational tone filled with excitement and adventure to a whole new generation of young learners.”

Four seasons in, the show has accumulated millions of viewers around the world.

Viewers can tune and support the local talent starting this Saturday, April 27, at 10am, followed by a new episode every Saturday morning. Season five is set to commence shooting this Summer.

Bahamian Swiftie reviews ‘The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology’

By CARA HUNT | Tribune Features Writer | cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

Iam a die-hard Swiftie and have been since I heard her very first single, “Tim McGraw” (inspired by the country star), way back when.

Taylor has millions of devoted fans around the world for a reason; she has a way of crafting lyrics that express everyday emotions that her fans can relate to; and they are such poetic lyrics that her songs become anthems.

So I have been eagerly awaiting her newest album, “The Tortured Poets Department” because I knew the songs were compiled around the time she spilt with her long-term beau, British actor Joe Alwyn, and ended things her brief, albeit controversial ‘situationship’ with Matt Healy, lead singer of the band The 1975.

I knew that there would be tea to spill, and Taylor delivered it piping hot in flowery English porcelain tea cups.

Sis had a lot to say and she said it in a double album of more than 30 songs.

Even for someone who regularly plays her 10-minute version of “All Too Well” on repeat it was a lot. It took me the whole of last weekend to listen to and process the album. And it connects to so many of her previous songs that even the most die-hard of fans now admit that they don’t know her as well as they thought.

The thing with TTPD is that it’s an album full of heartache. Her lyrics tug at your soul. She paints her heartbreak with painful strokes, and listening to that much pain is exhausting. (In fact, only the images of her and Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce looking happy together can ease that exhaustion as fans believe she may finally be getting her happy ending.)

This is unhappy, angry and slightly defiant Taylor. The emotions are raw. She opened her diary and let millions

inside in a way she hasn’t really done before.

From a lyrical standpoint, it’s a beautiful album. As I said, no one can turn a phrase quite like Taylor.

For example, in “So Long London” she sings, “And I’m pissed off you let me give you all that youth for free,” while in “The Prophecy” she pleads, “Please, I’ve been on my knees. Change the prophecy. Don’t want money. Just someone who wants my company. Let it once be me.”

And in the song “loml” (which fans speculate here stands for ‘loss of my life’), she laments, “You talked me under the table. Talking rings and talking cradle. I wish I could unrecall how we almost had it all.”

However, while the songwriting is poetic and gorgeous, the melodies do fall flat in some cases.

I wasn’t in love with the two album collabs: the single “Fortnight” with Post Malone and “Florida” featuring Florence & The Machine.

And some of the other songs were just variations on the same theme, and I have to admit, they probably won’t make my repeat list.

This is her most vulnerable, most mature album, but it’s not my favourite. I still prefer the more upbeat Taylor to dance around the house to, but she has always made the music that she needs to make for herself and simply invites others in to share, and I really respect that.

She did hit it out the park with several of the songs and those I will be blasting around my house, singing

along as a happy lifelong member of the Tortured oets Department.

My top ten songs off the album (in no order):particular

1.

“So Long London” (Although it was a bit tamer than I’d hoped)

2. “The Black Dog” (I love this song and the idea of wondering if someone misses you as much as you miss them.)

3.

“I Can Do It With a Broken Heart (Definitely a Taylor anthem to play as I clean the house)

4.

“The Prophecy” (I really felt that “please I’m on my knees to my soul”)

5. The Alchemy (It’s probably a Travis Kelce reference and I love it)

6.

“So High School” (People who think it sounds “so high school” just don’t get the point, and thats OK. I mean, the line ‘You play ball and I know Aristotle’ is a little corny; I can admit that.)

7.

“Guilty as Sin” (Taylor has officially shunned her good girl image, but she’s 34, so that’s more than OK.)

8.

“loml” (Just hauntingly sad and, well, tortured)

9.

“Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me” (This could easily have fit on her ‘Reputation’ album and I love Taylor when she’s in her no-morenice-girl phase.)

10. “But Daddy I Love Him” (Blondie has clearly had it with the critics)

Honourable mentions:

“Down Bad”, “Clara Bow”, “My Boy Only Breaks His Favourite Toys” and “Fresh Out the Slammer” Overall, I rate “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” 8/10.

A bit long and repetitious, and a few of the songs didn’t quite hit the mark, but it’s still a very solid piece of work.

Madea comes to the Bahamas

Tyler Perry and crew on location shoot for new movie; local casting director gets chance to shine

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

This week, excited Bahamians shared video clips on social media showing Tyler Perry’s iconic Madea charac ter taking a stroll outside of Atlantis Paradise Island. Well, it turns out the Atlanta-based film mogul is in the Bahamas with his cast and crew to shoot is his latest movie: “Madea’s Destination Wedding”.

Shooting for the movie began in January in Atlanta, followed by on-location filming in Nassau this week. Filming will resume in the Dominican Republic at a later date.

While we don’t have a release date as yet, we might get to see this new Madea flick sooner rather than later.

“Madea’s Destination Wedding” is centered around Madea’s granddaughter Tiffany, who introduces her new boyfriend, Zavier, to her family along with some shocking news: the couple plans to get married in just two weeks time in the Bahamas. And everyone is invited.

Despite her mother Debrah appearing to have everything under control, the family vacation to paradise hits some turbulence. Madea isn’t ready to leave the country and Brian doesn’t approve of his daughter’s hasty wedding or her immature fiancé.

Tiffany starts to doubt Zavier, and Debrah is acting out of character. The whole thing starts to look suspect and all the father-of-the-bride wants to know is whether or not this marriage is really all that it seems.

Photos and videos of the production crew film ing this new “Madea” film, of Tyler Perry and other actors, including David Mann, famous for his role as “Mr Brown”, created quite the buzz on Bahamian social media.

The movie, currently in production, is set to stream on Netflix as part of Perry’s multi-year, first-look contract with the streaming giant.

According to Blex Media, the project falls under Perry’s partnership with Netflix, estab lished in 2023, allowing him creative control to write, direct, and produce feature films. The deal includes the production of eight films over the next four years.

“Perry’s recent collaboration with Netf lix includes the 2022 release of ‘A Madea Homecoming’, inspired by elements from Beyoncé’s 2018 Coachella performance; ‘Mea Culpa’ aired earlier this year starring Kelly Rowland, and another project, the World War II drama ‘Six Triple Eight’, featuring Kerry Washington, Oprah Winfrey, Ebony

“Madea’s Destination Wedding” filming at Atlantis this week

MADEA’s granddaughter Tiffany is at the centre of the new film

Obsidian, and Milauna Jackson, is set for release sometime in 2024,’ the site reported. At the heart of all the excitement is Bahamian booking agent and owner of Rhythm in Motion Kevvanna Hall, who played a major role in securing the local talent for “Madea’s Destination Wedding”. Kevvanna was tasked with finding actors to fill certain roles as extras. She told Tribune Weekend it all unfolded after she was

contacted last week by a representative from Tyler Perry’s production company.

“This is all happened last month. They contacted me to cast certain roles; like the front desk agent, the reverend, and a couple different scenes that they wanted Bahamians to do. I did some auditions; I sent them to Tyler so he can choose which one of them would be the best,” she said.

Background casting is what Kevvanna is known for and what she is most passionate about.

“I do numerous commercials, music videos, casting for different production companies in the Bahamas,” she said.

Initially, Tyler Perry’s production company wanted to use its own casting director from Atlanta and have them assisted by a Bahamian.

Then decision was made for Kevvanna to be the film’s casting director for all local talent.

She said this was a major reponsibility.

“About two weeks they sent me an e-mail saying they were not bringing the casting director over any more and that I was going to handle all of the local talent in the Bahamas for this shoot. We did Zoom meetings with the production company. They gave me the script as well so I can read it. They put my name in the script and we had a confidentiality agreement signed,” she explained.

“This is something I do on the regular and I am passionate about it. And I am very good art it. I have a gift. What I love about this is that it gives me the opportunity to help a lot of Bahamians.

this weekend in history

There are companies that exist similar to mine. We book dancers, singers and musicians. I really care about each person and I try to see how best I can help them. A lot of companies have a stereotype when they want models. They are looking for a certain size or a certain look. But to me everyone is unique. For example, if you tell me you want

a joneser, I will not get someone to act like a joneser; I will get an actual joneser. If you want a fisherman, I go and find a real fisherman.’

Contributing to “Madea’s Destination Wedding” was a great experience for Kevvanna and she is looking forward to more and bigger opportunities in future.

April 26

April 27

THE ROLLING ball mouse for Xerox’s Alto computer

Best described as a number crossword, the task in Kakuro is to fill all of the empty squares, using numbers 1 to 9, so the sum of each horizontal block equals the number to its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the number on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Kakuro increases from Monday to Sunday.

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

Across

1 Replacing the last of the footlights (6)

4 Fairytale prince given marching order (8)

9 He takes his bow before he performs (6)

10 Second employer (8)

12 Some sugar plum pulled out (4)

13 How one may feel when unemployed or in bed (5)

14 Looking extremely cold and depressed? (4)

17 He deals openly with his clients (6,6)

20 A moneylender might, but it won’t appear in his books (4,8)

23 Join with one reservation (4)

24 Hold out for new iron lining (5)

25 Great singer eager for comeback (4)

28 Plant that has done real damage (8)

29 The main worry for the old sailor (6)

30 The original makers of sinks (8)

31 Kidnap tenor (6)

Down

1 Perfect though said to lack foundation (8)

2 Again but for the last time presumably (4,4)

3 Not now the capital of Norway (4)

5 It’s no use the pair arranging for a decorator (12)

6 The normal thing in government (4)

7 Hard water? That depends (6)

8 Get together and tuck in (6)

11 Drink avoided by most ventriloquists (6,2,4)

15 A fruit of the lemon variety (5)

16 Point always cut off (5)

18 Confuse by suggesting that one should be less calm (8)

19 Tidy flat (8)

21 Temporarily stop working on hedge (3,3)

22 Ladies’ man holding ancient city office (6)

26 Take a meal up for the girl (4)

27 Father uplifted after he makes a pile (4)

Across

Yesterday’s Easy Solution

Across: 1 Spoof, 4 Scratch, 8 Rut, 9 Barefaced, 10 Taffeta, 11 Ethos, 13 Meadow, 15 Strain, 18 Padre, 19 Opossum, 21 Underfoot, 23 Abe, 24 Potency, 25 Notes.

Down: 1 Stratum, 2 Out of hand, 3 Fibre, 4 Serial, 5 Reflect, 6 Tic, 7 Hades, 12 Head start, 14 Overrun, 16 Numbers, 17 Colony, 18 Plump, 20 Often, 22 Dot.

Yesterday’s Cryptic Solution

Across: 1 Ahead, 4 Optical, 8 Emu, 9 Illusions, 10 Trellis, 11 Aught, 13 Reaped, 15 Serbia, 18 Sated, 19 Biretta, 21 Eiderdown, 23 Ego, 24 Linseed, 25 Handy.

Down: 1 Abetter, 2 Exuberant, 3 Drill, 4 Owlish, 5 Testate, 6 Coo, 7 Liszt, 12 Go-between, 14 Endorse, 16 Analogy, 17 Abroad, 18 Spell, 20 Ranch, 22 Don.

EASY PUZZLE

1 Confirm formally (6)

4 Contemptuous (8)

9 Pen for livestock (6)

10 Taught to a select few (8)

12 Chief part in play (4)

13 Spiteful (5)

14 Lacking cordiality (4)

17 A boost (4,2,3,3)

20 Spotlessly clean (5-3-4)

23 Sympathetic sorrow (4)

24 Sealant for window-glass (5)

25 Rebuff (4)

28 Machination (8)

29 To inconvenience (3,3)

30 Delicate filmy material (8)

31 Of mixed origin (6)

Down

1 Foolhardy (8)

2 Pungent culinary herb (8)

3 Unweave at the edges (4)

5 Be very expensive (4,3,5)

6 Rebuke angrily (4)

7 Deep wrinkle (6)

8 Site (6)

11 High fashion (5,7)

15 Chilly (5)

16 Unrefined (5)

18 Unrestricted admission (4,4)

19 Without loss of force (8)

Espionage (6)

Relative importance (6)

Capital of Peru (4)

27 Small and weak (4)

● The Target uses words in the main body of Chambers 21st Century Dictionary (1999 edition)

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here?

In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in S permitted.

TODAY’S TARGET Good 17; very good 25; excellent 33 (or more). Solution tomorrow

Yesterday’s Sudoku Answer

Call 0907 181 2585 for today’s Target solution *Calls cost 80p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.

BATTLESHIPS

FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off. Solution tomorrow

Lookout, 5 Vital,

Repel, 9 Detriment, 14 Illegal, 15 Problem, 16 Appease, 19 Charm, 20 Haste, 21 Staid.

CAN you crack the Alphabeater? Each grid number represents a letter – or black square. As in Alphapuzzle, every letter of the alphabet is used. But you have to complete the grid too! Use the given letters and black squares below the grid to start. The grid is ‘rotationally symmetrical’ – in other words, it looks the same if you turn the page upside down. Solution tomorrow

GRADUALLY agar alga algal allay ally alula aryl auld aura aural aurally dally drag dray dual gala gall garda gaud gaudy glad gladly gradual GRADUALLY gray guard lady lard laud raga rally yard

Across: Logical, Scamper, Notebook, Crouch, Vandal, Animate, Blame, Down: Laconic, Opinion, Celibacy, (clue), Shrewd, Expound, Trawl,

Yesterday’s Kakuro Answer

Local music collective hosts special two-day event for International Jazz Day

By CARA HUNT | Tribune Features Writer | cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

Jazz is the music that played in Krystoph Deveaux’s mind long before he actually became aware that it existed as a genre.

“I always wanted to learn a specific type of music,” he said, “but I didn’t really know what that was.”

That was until he entered the University of the Bahamas and was introduced to musician Adrian D’Aguilar.

“He introduced jazz to me and I fell in love,” he told Tribune Weekend.

“I think what I love about it is the the way you can do free improvisation. You can play a song three different times and each time it will be a different version of the same song. I love that spontaneity and how you can just have sessions with other artist and create unique music.”

And like most passionate creative individuals, he wants to share that passion with other young musicians.

Krystoph is a member of the Sonority Experience, a group of creatives dedicated to shifting the musical culture in the Bahamas.

The group will host “Intertwined: The Bahamian Jazz Connection,” an innovative jazz concert set for April 30 at the Fiona Theatre at the National Art Gallery. The event will also feature The Central Drive Collection, Jens Sweeting, Adrian D’Aguilar, Trezsa, Tino Sheep Richardson and Zaavan Colebrook.

Krystoph promises that it will be an unforgettable evening, celebrating the rich history, vibrant present and promising future of Bahamian jazz. The concert will feature performances by legendary, contemporary and emerging jazz musicians, offering a comprehensive celebration of jazz and its profound impact on Bahamian culture.

“I got the idea back in January, because I knew that International Jazz Day was coming up (on April 30) and this is the first time that I have actually been in Nassau for the

day and so I wanted to commemorate it somehow,” he said.

“We started the planning in March, which was very short notice, but I think we are the only jazz event happening in the Bahamas that day. And the Art Gallery has helped us with the sponsoring of the venue.”

Krystoph and his fellow musicians hope the event will inspire the next generation of jazz lovers in the Bahamas through performance, education and mentorship.

Additionally, they hope to showcase the diversity and talent within the Bahamian jazz scene, and deepen

the appreciation of the genre among locals and international visitors through accessible education and high-quality performances. They also aim to strengthen the connections between the Bahamian jazz community and the global jazz scene, fostering cultural exchanges and collaborations.

The event will take place over two days. The first day will offer a jazz master class, “Jazz in Practice”.

This workshop will focus on the practical component of jazz, bringing theory to life through performance, improvisation and collaboration.

Attendees will have the opportunity to witness live demonstrations led by The Central Drive Collective, experiencing firsthand the spontaneity and creativity that define jazz performance.

Day two is the concert, featuring an array of jazz and Bahamian music from its historic roots to its contemporary innovations and future prospects. The event will kick off with a segment dedicated to the contributions made by the pioneers of Bahamian jazz music, showcasing emerging talents from The Central Drive Collective. Following this, the concert will highlight the works of local musicians who are pushing the boundaries of jazz music by infusing it with Bahamian elements.

In addition to the music there will be an Art & Culinary Village, showcasing an array of local culinary, visual and craft artists.

“Jazz Connection” is more than just a concert, said Krystoph; it is a multifaceted cultural event designed to celebrate, educate and inspire.

He said he is excited to show how the participating jazz artists will remake traditional Bahamian folk songs “in a way no one has ever seen before, as well as showcase special songs they have composed especially for the event.”

For more information and ticket purchases, www.eventbrite.com.

JAZZ musician Krystoph Deveaux of Sonority Experience

Sweet seduction

Miami’s Faena cabaret troupe returns to the Bahamas

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

Due to popular demand, the acclaimed Faena Theatre out of Miami, Florida, is returning to the Bahamas, to SLS Baha Mar, with yet another visually stunning cabaret experience.

The Séduire Cabaret: Soirée of Seduction will be performed from Friday, May 10 to Sunday, May 12 at BOND, Baha Mar’s premiere nightlife destination.

The immersive burlesque show has been specially crafted for SLS Baha Mar by Faena, a theatre based in Miami’s historic boutique hotel Casa Faena which has become renowned for its bold artistic productions and original cabaret acts. It is inspired by Europe’s grand opera houses and the glittering allure of Old Hollywood. The performance space is decorated to look like an intimate gilded theatre, with luxurious velvet and chandeliers.

Séduire will celebrate the raw energy and beauty of the Bahamas through sizzling live music, mesmerising fire displays, sultry dance routines, entrancing aerial acts, and an array of other variety performances.

Norman Lightbourne, assistant director of marketing at SLS Baha Mar, said the BOND nightclub will be

transformed into an old-world theatre featuring cocktail-style seating to showcase Séduire’s irresistible allure.

“Seduire is the second performance to be held in partnership with Faena Theatre at SLS Baha Mar. In 2023, we welcomed Faena to SLS Baha Mar for the first time to present Luxuria Cabaret. The event was such a success that we are not only bringing Faena Theatre back for a second time this year, we are able to offer two additional showings over the course of the weekend,” he told Tribune Weekend.

The Faena Theatre has played host to a diverse lineup of acts, from pop stars to magicians, music legends to cabaret stars, securing its reputation as a must-visit venue in Miami.

With only 150 seats, Norman said the intimate theatre is an incredible space to experience live musical entertainment. And now, for the second year in a row, Baha Mar is looking forward to welcoming Faena talent to SLS Baha Mar to celebrate the beauty of the Bahamas.

“Séduire will welcome multi-faceted vocalist, recording artist and actress Sa’Rayah to the stage as event emcee, who will lead a dazzling group of 20 performers to create an evening of irresistible allure. Throughout

her career, Sa’Rayah has shared stages with artists such as the legendary Stevie Wonder, Celine Dión, Ariana Grande and Enrique Iglesias, and we are thrilled to have her play an integral role in the show,” said Norman.

“The team at Faena Theatre is incredibly talented, and they have lots of experience putting on ambitious artistic productions and producing their very own highly acclaimed cabaret performances. It has been such a privilege working with their team for the production of Séduire and reimagining BOND as a theatre and stage.” He said shows like Séduire really brings this the concept of SLS Baha Mar as a connoisseur of global culture, style and glamour.

Going forward into the Summer season, Norman said there are several different playful yet sophisticated, entertainment events planned to immerse guests in Bahamian culture - including a soca event at the Privilege Pool for May 16 -17 and a Bahamian Fish Fry during Independence Day weekend on Saturday, July 13.

VOCALIST recording artist, producer, actress, and motivational speaker Sa’Rayah joins the cast

gardening

Take heed of the signs

Good day, gardeners. Whether you’ve been receiving a rain shower here or there, it’s quite dry at the moment. When grass without irrigation is being cut it has a smell of dirt, not fresh cut grass. The new growth on a few fruit trees is a bit wilted where I am, as they had pushed a new flush and now there isn’t enough water to support that, without supplemental watering. In my opinion, it’s a good time to do some pruning.

Wise gardeners will have drought-resistant plants in their yard, but many of us have all sorts of plant materials that require additional waterings. Be sure to water enough so that it can penetrate the ground deeply; don’t water just the top inch of soil. Check how far the water gets down into the ground by digging down into it several inches to ensure that your watering enough. Someone asked me today about seeding thyme, and why they haven’t been successful.

Thyme is one that will do well in establishing at this time of year, they will go backwards in a hurry with over-watering. As it’s a bit dry now, they can be seeded or transplanted successfully with a watering upon the install, and then all but forget about them.

WASPS are building nests very low to the ground and in highly protected spaces

I’m noticing an increased occurrence on lethal yellowing disease on coconut palms. Keep a close eye on them for any signs of decline. Consult a professional for guidance and assistance in warding off the disease. It’s difficult to spot to an untrained eye. Now is an excellent time to hire a professional to thin out the tree canopy to allow increased light penetration and air flow. It’s also a good time to clean coconut palms of excess coconuts and older fronds to reduce their weight and wind resistance.

Certain trees flowers very early and heavily this season, and the wasps are building new nests very low to the ground and in highly

protected spaces, and if you pay attention to what the old timers have always said, heed those warnings. We may be expecting a heavier than usual storm season. Take precautions early, in other words, begin now or as soon as possible. Trees can withstand the heaviest of storm if they’re maintained correctly. It’s not common for correct tree maintenance to take place in this Bahamaland.

If you have a place with trees on it, do what you can, it’ll save time, effort and money later. That’s not a theory or an opinion. I see some folks complain about certain plants that some refer to as weeds.

A weed is any plant that is growing where it isn’t wanted. Most are

beneficial, and for those that scoff at plants such shepherd’s needle, are missing the entire point of having a garden. It actually improves and helps the health of a garden and the wider ecosystem to allow plants like shepherd’s needle to grow in some areas to provide shelter and food sources for beneficial insects.

Beneficial insects help to keep pests at bay. Less pests equals higher fruit and vegetable quality and yields. I question the concept of a sanitary garden space as it is a bit self-defeating and contradicts the entire concept of the system that supports our very well being as a species. Deep thoughts. To encourage deeper root growth, higher wind tolerance, and more well-established

root structures, water deeply and thin out trees or palms that grow above head height or above buildings or structures. You can thank me later. As always, I wish you happy gardening.

SHEPHERD’s needle

Closer to stardom Bahamian artist soars in Texas

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

DEDICATED to crafting meaningful music that resonates with listeners worldwide, Bahamian singer-songwriter Khiara Ayaba is ready to take her career to the next level with the release of her new single, “Closer 2 Shore” and a successful submission to the popular NPR Tiny Desk - Top Shelf Series.

Now based in Houston, Texas, Khiara told Tribune Weekend: “Ideally, it would be great to win a Grammy Award, but the truth is I want to be able to move people, to make people feel good about themselves and to dance. I want them to love stronger when they hear my music, words and melodies.”

She started singing in the children’s choir at her grandmother’s church, Annex Baptist Church, at a very young age. To develop her talent, her mother got her vocal lessons.

“(My mom) always would say to me, ‘Oh, Kia, if I could sing like you, I would never stop singing.’ So when I sing, I sing as if I am doing it for her as well,” the artist said.

Khiara went on to become a member of the Bahamas National Children’s Choir under the direction of the late Audrey Dean-Wright and Dr Patricia Bazard. It was there that she gained

“I have travelled the world with these choirs, spreading and sharing our culture in places that at that time as a kid I could have only dreamt of. I also competed in a reality show called ‘Born to Diva’ which was aired on VH-1 back in 2003.”

a greater understanding of professionalism in entertainment.

As a teenager, she competed in local competitions and eventually join the renowned Bahamas National Youth Choir under the direction of Cleophas Adderley. Both choirs, Khiara said, broadened her mind and sharpened her talents.

“I have travelled the world with these choirs, spreading and sharing our culture in places that at that time as a kid I could have only dreamt of. I also competed in a reality show called ‘Born to Diva’ which was aired on VH-1 back in 2003,” she said.

Khiara has sung background vocals both on stage and on recordings for local artists throughout the Bahamas and in the US. She was a member of the band Xtra band, and with her on lead vocals, they received a great response to their song “Private Dancer”, which is still on rotation on local radio rotation. She is also past member of the Visage band.

“Since moving to Houston, I have continued to perform at shows within the West Indian community and at both private and public functions,” she said.

literary lives - Beniamino Gigli (1870 -1957)

The sweetest tenor voice in all the world

Sir Christopher Ondaatje looks back on the career and opaque character of the Italian opera singer Beniamino Gigli – considered to be one of the greatest tenors of his generation.

“I must bring into focus … the absolute necessity for mentally conceiving beforehand the vowel sound and its colour or timbre … Certain methods aim at a heavily emphasised vowel production solely on a physical basis and without any mental shaping and colouring beforehand. This can only lead to a grossly exaggerated focus with consequent stiffening … of the parts engaged in such production; the tonal product suffers accordingly. Any exaggeratedly emphasised vowel sound constricts the throat; and assuredly no tone issuing from a clamped adjustment and setting, however slight the constriction, can ever be spontaneous, harmonious, and expressive, let alone beautiful.”

- Beniamino Gigli

Beniamino Gigli was born on March 20, 1890, in Recanati, Italy, in the Marche, the son of a shoemaker who loved opera. His parents did not view music as a secure career. His brother Lorenzo became a well-known painter.

In 1914, Gigli won first prize in an international singing competition in Parma. His operatic debut came later that year on October 16, 1914, when he played Enzo in Amilcare Ponchielli’s La Gioconda in Rovigo. After this performance he was in great demand.

He made many important debuts in quick succession – playing Mefistofele: Teatro Massimo in Palermo (March 31, 1915); Teatro di San Carlo, Naples (December 26, 1915); Teatro Constanzi di Roma (December 26, 1916); La Scala, Milan (November 19, 1918); Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires (June 28, 1919), and finally the Metropolitan Opera, New York City (November 26, 1920).

Two other great Italian tenors singing for the Metropolitan Opera in New York, during the 1920s, rivalled Gigli for tenor supremacy in the

Italian repertory – namely Giovanni Martinelli and Giacomo Lauri-Volpi.

Other roles in which Gigli became associated in the 1920s included Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor; Rodolfo in Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème; and the title role in Umberto Giordano’s Andrea Chévier, all of which he would record in full.

Gigli rose to true international prominence in 1921 after the death of the great Italian tenor Enrico Caruso. He was incredibly popular with audiences, and was often compared to Caruso, although the comparison was not valid as Caruso had a bigger, darker, more heroic voice than Gigli’s sizable but much more honey-toned voice.

“Before singing a high note, don’t think about the effort you’ll make to reach the high note, but think about trying to imitate the sound of a violincello, as a round and velvet vocal colour, this is valid for a tenor – while for the soprano the sound should resemble the flute; for the baritone the bass, and for the basso the double bass.”

- Beniamino Gigli

In 1932, Gigli left the Metropolitan Opera, supposedly because he refused to take a pay cut. The Metropolitan’s general manager, Giulio GattiCasazza, was furious with Gigli, the Met’s most popular male singer.

Other Met artists, Lily Pons amd Rosa Ponselle, also refused to accept pay cuts. Gatti-Casazza gave himself a large pay increase in 1931 - so that in fact, controversially, his salary remained the same. Also, Gigli had offered to sing six concerts without pay as a counter offer – something Gatti-Casazzo hid from the press.

After leaving the Metropolitan Opera, Gigli returned to Italy. He was popular and sang in many houses there, in other European countries, and in South America. He was criticised for being a favourite singer of the Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini and having recorded the Fascist anthem Giovinezza in 1937. Towards the end of World War II, in 1945, Gigli returned to the stage and found his popularity greater than ever.

“Good breath control is the result of balanced singing and not the cause. As soon as I commence to sing I forget all about the diaphragm and ribs, all about the machinery and its action, and sing on the air accumulated right underneath the larynx.”

- Beniamino Gigli

Gigli appeared in over twenty films between 1935 and 1953 – in addition to his stage performances. These included the 1936 Johannes Riemann-directed Ave Maria opposite actress Käthe von Nagy, and Giuseppe Fatigati’s 1943 drama I Pagliacci opposite Italian actress Alida Valli.

In the last few years of his life, Gigli gave concert performances more than he appeared on the opera stage. Before he retired in 1955 Gigli embarked on an exhausting world tour, including performances at the Metropolitan Opera.

Like many great artists, Gigli was a man of many contradictions. He gave one thousand benefit concerts, more fundraising concerts than any other singer in history. He was deeply devoted to Padre Pio – his Catholic confessor – to whom he donated large amounts of money. He also sang an unusual amount of sacred music (especially in the 1950s) – atypical of a leading operatic tenor. Throughout his career he was devoted to the music of Don Lorenzo Perosi.

On the other hand, Gigli’s relationships with women were often tainted by scandal. In his memoirs he states that he married Constanza Cerroni six months earlier than he actually did – because she was already pregnant before she married him. Gigli had two children with Constanza: Enzo, and Rina, who later became a well-known soprano in her own right and often appeared in concerts with her father.

He was also known to have had a second family with Lucia Vigarani, with whom he had three children.

He is rumoured to have at least three other children with as many different women. It is not known how many children Gigli actually had.

One son, William Hildebrandt, born in February 1934 in New York, is still living. He is the son of Gloria Doyle, who was an opera singer at the Metropolitan Opera. William Hildebrandt’s children (Gigli’s American-born grandchildren) are comedian “Bill” Hildebrandt and Lori Jean Hildebrandt – both living in the Detroit area.

Gigli is well known to have had a soft lyrical voice with an incredible mezza voice allowing him to sing light lyrical roles. His voice later developed into a more dramatic quality, enabling him to sing

GIGLI in the 1920s

heavier roles like Ràdames in Aida, and Cavaradossi in Tosca. Many critics have said at times Gigli was overemotional during performances, often resorting to sobbing and over- exaggeration.

Many of Gigli’s recordings, including complete arias with Maria Caniglia, Rina Gigli (his daughter), Licia Albanese, and Toti dal Monte (done in the 1920s) have been reissued.

80th Red Cross Fair celebrates milestone anniversary with live concert and Junkanoo rush-out

The 80th Red Cross Fair, a celebration of community and culture, is set to captivate audiences on Saturday, April 27, at the Arawak Cay Heritage Site from 12noon until midnight. This landmark event, being held under the theme “Towards a Brighter Future”, promises to be a day filled with excitement, entertainment, and a memorable live concert followed by a Junkanoo rush-out.

A highlight of the evening will be the concert “We Scullin Party,” from 7pm to 10pm, featuring a lineup of well-known Bahamian talent. Headlining the event is Geno D, whose infectious energy and electrifying performances have earned him widespread acclaim. Joining him on stage will be Veronica Bishop, Blaudy, Ilsha, Jonny Cake, Iron Storr, MelloD, accompanied by the Higher Level Band. Together, they promise they will deliver an unforgettable musical experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of Bahamian culture.

Following the concert, attendees will be treated to a Junkanoo rush-out, a beloved tradition that embodies the spirit of Bahamian heritage and pride. Featuring vibrant costumes, pulsating rhythms, and exhilarating performances, organisers thought this would be fitting finale to an unforgettable evening.

The 80th Red Cross Fair will offer something for everyone: fun and games, delicious food and family-friendly activities. It’s a day to celebrate the strength of community and the importance of coming together to support a worthy cause.

BLAUDY

IRON Storr

ILSHA

animals

Animal matters Kim

Aranha

Opening your heart to a new puppy

Hi Mum, we heard people say that some of their favourite articles are the ones where we write to you.

Funny that they think these letters are your articles, when we actually write them ourselves to you from the Rainbow Bridge and send them down to Earth to you. I guess that you have to be a believer first.

Well Mum, let’s start with the fact that we were all super surprised that you got a new puppy, and so soon. I mean, you did actually say no new puppies as long as Bella is with you. Bella wanted to be queen. I heard you say those very words, Mum… no denying it.

However, the circumstances were very sad indeed, and little Peanut is tiny and young. She appears to be settling in very well, so well that I see she wants to chew on the beautiful carved mahogany shelves you keep the wine glasses on.

Up here we are all really happy that you chose to open your heart up to Peanut, however, truth be told, she can be pretty annoying to poor Bella, especially when she rushes over to bite Bella’s nose or tail. Mum, Bella doesn’t really want her nose bitten but she understands that’s what puppies do.

A lot of people think that Peanut looks like I did when I was a boy. There is definitely a resemblance. Remember, how I had those crazy big ears and you wanted to call me Radar? And then I became Garmin (the company that manufactures radar machinery). I was such a funny little puppy, I remember you saying that.

Well, this little Peanut is quite a little character. She thinks that she is a big dog and will stand firm; I have watched her. She knows that I am there, Mum. I tell her not to chew

PET OF THE WEEK

quite so hard with those little needle sharp teeth.

Chief is not writing this letter (he instructed me too); he is off having a picnic with Gabby (yes, I know her earth parents say she wasn’t sociable, but you should see her now). They are so cute together. Chiefie carries the picnic basket in his mouth and she leads the way. They have a little place they like near the swimming pond. By the way, both Chiefie and Gabby notice that Gabby’s earth family got a new puppy, too. Kendall was the victim of cruelty from a bunch of children and was rescued by a good samaritan.Tell him he looks really sharp in those bow

Amiable Anna

By The Bahamas Humane Society

Sweet, loving Anna is about two years old and hoping to fnd herself a new home rather than hanging out at the Bahamas Humane Society.

Anna is great with humans and very smart. She would do best, though, as a single dog in her new home.

Anna does enjoy going out on the dog walks and would love to keep that exercise up with her new people/

ties his mum dresses him in.

Both Chiefie and Gabby tune into their houses to watch their earthly homes and enjoy the antics of the new residents. Chiefie had a pretty good laugh the other day when Bella told Peanut off for being very annoying. Poor Peanut was a bit put out, but that is how puppies learn how to behave.

The Rainbow Bridge is busy as usual. As all dogs (and cats) go to heaven there is a pretty big arrivals section, and then they get sorted and sent where they will be happiest.

St Francis would never be able to cope without all the help he gets from his assistant Nimba. She has become so

person.

Do you have the right place for Anna? If so, come to the BHS to meet her or call 3256742 for more information. Anna looks forward to meeting you.

• The dog walks are Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9am. It’s a great way for the dogs to have some out of cage time and for you to have some fresh air. Come and join us!

knowledgeable and caring; everybody loves her. It is funny when she came here. She was quite timid with her limited English and everything. Now, she is very much in charge; she rushes around the clouds with speed and purpose.

Talking about love, Mum, this is a great moment to discuss how important it is to love another dog or cat after your fur baby passes on. The greatest tribute you can pay your previous pet and demonstrate how much you loved them is by opening up your home and heart to another animal who needs a safe refuge and needs the love.

You should feel free to love them as much as you loved us. That is the way it is intended to be. And by doing that, you honour us all the more. If you hadn’t been happy with us, you may not want to have another pet, but as you had loved us and enjoyed our time together it is only right to open your life to another who wants to love and cherish you.

Loss is a scary thing, and you must remember that you can never, ever, replace your beloved pup or cat who crossed over. There will never be another me, or Chiefie, Buddy, Boss, Nimba or Gabby, but there will be different personalities who will slowly worm their way into your heart. That is just how it goes. You cry buckets of tears, and you will always miss us, but there is always room in your heart to love one or many more pets, that’s just the way it works.

Love you still, my Mummy. - Garmin (and all the others looking

( PHOTO BY JUDY YOUNG )

Bella with little Peanut

She said her newest single is a blend of pop, R&B, alternative, and rock music that embodies themes of empowerment, love and hope.

“The inspiration for ‘Closer 2 Shore’ is fuelled by the turmoil one may experience within a relationship where one may not be loving as strongly as the other. The perspective is to still love strong, to love recklessly, and to live life to the fullest in spite of life’s challenges, while encouraging everyone to love themselves,” she said.

The song has received reviews from critics in the UK, France, and Argentina. It has been streamed over 4,000 times in countries like Nigeria and Brazil - “places I would not have guessed would have streamed as it quickly as it did,” she said.

She has made a commitment to herself for 2024 and beyond to not allow any excuses to hinder her from reaching her full potential. Therefore, music is now Khiara’s full-time job.

“When I am driving, brushing my teeth, running on the park, melodies or sometimes words formulate. I live and breathe music,” she said. My genre and style of music is good music. There isn’t just one style of genre I perform and sing. I am very much a creative that appreciates all genres and have recordings that reflect that flexibility and daringness to experiment within other genres.”

Khiara was also happy to share that she was recently featured on NPR Music’s Tiny DeskTop Shelf Series on their YouTube channel this past Friday.

“Tiny Desk holds a competition each year where they welcome bands and artists to submit a live performance of their song for a chance to be able to sing live on Tiny Desk, and this year they have selected a few of their favourite submissions to showcase. It is definitely an honour to be selected as one of their favs as there were over 7,000 submissions. It means a lot to know someone appreciates what I am doing,” she said.

In past 15 years, there have been over 800 Tiny Desk concerts, by big-name artists like Taylor Swift, Duo Lipa, The Cranberries, Usher, Hozier, H.E.R., Mac Miller, Olivia Rodrigo, Post Malone, and many others.

At present, Khiara said people can find her performing at various five-star restaurants in Houston.

She is also normally booked with a wedding band that travels throughout the US. For those who are unable to catch her live, they can always keep up with her via Instagram at ‘Khiarayaba’.

“For the remainder of the year, I look forward to being able to continue performing my music live. I may also have a surprise for you all dropping in summertime. One thing is for sure, I look forward to completing my upcoming EP that I am so stoked to share with you before this year is out,” she said.

For all those interested, Khiara’s music is available on all music platforms under the artist’s name Khiara Ayaba (Spotify, Apple Music, etc). There is also an official music video for “Closer 2 Shore” on YouTube.