Georgetown: As the spirit of Mashramani gets in the air, there is a call for more members of the private sector to participate in the Mash bands for the float parade on February 23, 2014.
Mashramani 2014 is being celebrated under the theme, “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”.
Culture Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony is appealing to private sector companies to get involved with designers to showcase their bands in February.
“A lot of people come out with their families to look at the float parade, so the spectators are there but the bands are not enough. If more companies from the private sector are involved, we would have a better parade,” he said.
The masquerade component of the event this year will benefit from DVDs featuring a variety of moves, to make the showpiece more entertaining.
The ministry has decided to provide the DVDs to bands after its Masquerade Symposium last year was nothing to “masquerade about”.
Dr Anthony lamented the shameful attendance, which many believe did not bode well for the traditional art form.
In an attempt to revive some interest in Mashramani masqueraders, the ministry will provide DVDs along with a manual, featuring a repertoire of moves and how to groove. “This DVD will be uploaded on the ministry’s website and this footage will teach masquerade moves,” an exited Dr Anthony said.
Over the years, Mashramani has grown to be one, if not the largest of Guyana’s most colourful events, transcending all racial and cultural barriers.
Mashramani also attracts Guyanese overseas, many of whom return home for the event.
Apart from the children’s and adult float parades, the next big activity on the Mashramani calendar is the senior and junior calypso competitions, along with the chutney competitions.
These are usually held during the months of January and February leading up to Mashramani. The culture, youth and sport minister noted that dates for some of the competitions have already been set and after next week’s meeting, citizens will begin to hear and see results of the various competitions.
Dr Anthony said over the years, persons entered the competition without a recorded piece, but this year will be different, as the songs will have to be recorded.
Additionally, the steel pan competition sponsored by Republic Bank will be another big feature of the Mashramani celebrations.
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