Trini Riddims hosts show at 'Despers' panyard

The Trini Riddims Cultural Tours will launch its tourism initiative at the Desperadoes Panyard, Tragarete Road, Port of Spain, on June 18 with a free concert. The initiative is geared toward bringing all aspects of Trinidad and Tobago's culture as well as artisans to the forefront of the tourism industry.

A packed six hours of entertainment will feature the 2011 Calypso Monarch Karene Asche, conscious lyrics by Mr King, Desperadoes Steel Orchestra, Laventille Rhythm Section, Roadblock Steel Orchestra, Shazzie of the Workshop868 Band who will perform the Dholakman, Caribbean Steelpan Connextion Ensemble and comedian Knuts Landing.

A mixture of pan and conventional instrument will feature performances by Len "Boogsie" Sharpe and Carlton “Zanda” Alexander, with Douglas Redon, Theron Shaw and Chantal Esdelle performing together. Alexander and upcoming virtuoso pannist Dejean Cain will also team up. The show will open with Silky D and Brother Mulugata.

Trini Riddims said its aim is to promote all aspects of TT's culture to "bring awareness of the importance of TT's diverse cultural heritage of music, theatre, dance, food, and unique handicraft that transcend all ethnicities."

It said its drive toward cultural tourism is being undertaken "after two years of critical assessment of cultural activities in the tourism sector in Trinidad."

In a media release it said, "We have recognised that the penetration into the cultural tourism sector is limited and much needed. Trini Riddims clearly understands that cultural heritage is the only unique asset within tourism and has built its foundation on a solid base of cultural entertainment, integrating all aspects of the rich cultural diversities of dance, music, food, festivals, and religion which emanate from the communities."

Trini Riddims said its has over 40 years of cultural and tourism background and its Trini Riddims Cultural Tours, which which it conducts, and unique events are educational and interactive.

"We pride ourselves in providing unique experiences in cultural activities with tourism as the main vehicle. It is our strong belief, that we can move strategically into the cultural tourism space and capture a large market share of the industry, targeting cultural activists locally and internationally as we are fully aware that TT possesses arguably the most diverse culture in the world," it said.

Its tour operations manager, Elwyn Francis, has over 20 years of experience as a tour guide with the Chaguaramas Development Authority, the release said. The founder of Trini Riddims, Curtis Edwards, has over 40 years in the cultural arena. Edwards is a former captain of Desperadoes steelband.

For more info: 686-8200, e-mail: triniriddims868@gmail.com