It's officially Caribana season! The Launch kicked off Scotiabank Caribana events yesterday at Yonge Dundas Square instead of Nathan Phillips Square (City Hall) due to the city strike. While the smaller space was quite congested, I think it drew in a larger crowd.
Fantasia International, Connections, Tribal Knights, Toronto Revellers, Callaloo, Jessie Matthews, Nip Davis and Borokeete were the bands represented. I did find myself getting into the mas mood when the costumes were paraded on the stage.Entertainment included Macomere Fifi, the cast from The Harder they Come, and Structure.
If you want to play mas, but think it's too late, most mas bands have several sections still available, they are not sold out, so you've still got time to select a costume.There are no plans, say the officials, to cancel or relocate King and Queen from the city-run Lamport Stadium on July 30.
There are some new events this year: Clash of Tents, Tent Theatres, After Parade Fusion and Tent Villages goes to Ontario Place.
11 Calypsonians will perform at The Great Hall (Queen St. West) for Clash of Tents on July 29.
While watching the Parade of Bands on August 1, Soca and Calypso artists will also entertain along the Lakeshore and in the CNE grounds for the Tent Theatres.
After Parade Fusion will be a concert celebrating carnival music, and will take place at Lamport Stadium after the parade at 8 p.m. on August 1.
A Disney-styled parade of Mas Bands will be brought to Ontario Place on August 3 for Tent Villages goes to Ontario Place.
