Maryland, USA (June 15, 2012) - With excitement building for
Montserrat's 50th Annual Festival this December, the Waka Waka
Mas band has begun showcasing their presentation, "The Treasures
of Alliouagana", which was inspired by the rich culture and
history of the island. Alliouagana is the Amerindian name for
the island of Montserrat and its cultural heritage is regarded as
its most valuable Treasure. On New Years Day 2013, Waka Waka Mas
will present three of these treasures in the form of distinctive
and colorful costumes on the streets of Montserrat.Oriole
(Orange) - represents Montserrat's African heritage and the
national bird, the Oriole.Shamrock (Green) - represents
Montserrat's Irish heritage and the island itself also known as
the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean.Sarobei (White) - represents
Montserrat's Amerindian heritage, and the silky Sea Island cotton
that was once a major export of the island. Sarobei is also the
Taino/Arawak word for cotton. The words "Waka Waka" are an
African rally cry that translates to "Do It", as in a task, which
embodies the attitude of Waka Waka Mas. In this their first major
initiative, they hope not only to encourage Montserratians to
come home, but also to spread the excitement of this year's
festival to non-Montserratians particularly from neighbouring
islands to come and join in or witness what will be a memorable
50th Anniversary celebration.U.S.-based band leader Dudley
Skerritt was inspired to create the group based on his early
memories of the Montserrat Festival. He reminisces, "I have such
fond memories of being at the street parade trying to keep up
with the people dressed up in vibrant costumes and the revellers
enjoying themselves to the songs of Cepeke and other calypso
artistes." He says, "The Treasures of Alliouagana is a chance for
those who participated back then to bring back the glory days --
pre volcanic eruption and pre Hurricane Hugo -- and for those
like myself who were on the sidelines, we can finally take part,
to create new memories and at the same time remind the youths
about our culture." Canada-based band member Terrance Jemmotte,
was inspired to get involved because, as he says, "I see
Montserratians, including myself, playing mas in so many
different places around the world and I wonder, why not
Montserrat? What could be better than paying mas at home?". Waka
Waka Mas hopes that many will answer the call to play mas this
year or just visit Montserrat during this special festival
celebration and help boost the local economy which is still
recovering from the devastating volcanic eruption some 17 years
ago. Skerritt states, "We are organizing this event to
encourage Montserratians not only to take a long overdue trip
home but to participate to make the 50th celebration a memorable
one for all. Despite the challenges the island has faced over
the years, the island has much to offer and there is still no
place like home. As the official slogan goes, "It's time to
celebrate the Talent, Culture and Creativity, Montserrat Festival
50." AboutWaka Waka Mas is a non-profit masquerade band,
supported by a large team of volunteers across the globe to
promote the rich cultural heritage of Montserrat by re-energising
the New Years Day parade with the pageantry and dazzle that so
many of us remember. For more information about the Montserrat
Festival and Waka Waka Mas please visitmontserratfestival.com
andwakawakamas.com.
Where to stay on this tropical paradise?
Our villa offers a panoramic view of the ocean and towering lush
mountains, with breathtaking sunset views and star filled skies.
Just a short walk away is one of the best beaches you will ever
see. Woodlands is a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs where you
will often be the only visitors enjoying the Caribbean waters and
Montserrat's famous black sand beaches. Swim or snorkel around
the cliff to your left and find a tiny private beach only
accessible by water. This is where my husband proposed to me!
Woodlands, where our villa is located, is the most wooded area on
the island. It is lush with vegetation, palm and fruit trees and
flowers of all sorts. The vegetation and dramatic views of the
mountains create a cool breeze refreshing breeze throughout the
villa.
Three private suites, each with full bath and sitting area sleep
6.
http://www.vrbo.com/409480
susan@asi-adoption.com
+1 732 221 9483
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