Half A Decade Of Dance: Dance Grenada’s 5th Festival Honors Culture, Community and Innovation

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. October 4, 2024:  The Dance Grenada Festival returns for its fifth season on the beautiful island of Grenada. Under the theme “From the Ground Up 5 Years and Beyond: Promoting Resiliency, Sustainability, & Freedom in the Arts,” this year’s festival honors this monumental milestone and the tenacity of dancers and creatives globally.

Dance Grenada Founder and Artistic Director Shola K. Roberts (center) joins teaching artist Keith Williams (fifth from right) and performers during the vibrant opening ceremony of the 2023 festival.

From October 17-21, 2024, Dance Grenada will mark its five-year anniversary with a vibrant five-day festival featuring eight immersive workshops and two engaging panel discussions led by renowned dance professionals.This year’s special events include the debut of the inaugural Dance Grenada concert and a tribute to Veni Vwai La Grenade, a revered Grenadian dance company celebrating its 50th anniversary. Attendees can also enjoy the return of the popular international vendor’s marketplace and the annual island tour, offering a rich fusion of culture, artistry, and authentic local experiences.

“As I reflect on where we started five years ago to now, I’m grateful to have created a community that can gather and exchange culture, creativity and connectivity through dance. This festival brings together talented artists from across the globe to engage in and share the value of African diasporic dances, which are often overlooked and rarely viewed as serious art forms when compared to their Western counterparts,” said Founder and Artistic Director Shola K. Roberts, a Caribbean dance expert and professor at Arizona State University.

Dance Grenada is crucial to uplifting and preserving African diasporic dance forms such as Grenadian Folk Dance like Shango, Afro-Cuban and Grenadian Masquerade. Through thoughtfully curated programming, the festival hosts international dancers to not only study these dances but also to partake in additional learning opportunities that speak to the importance of the creative economy in Grenada, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Dance classes will be led by renowned dancers, including Grenada’s own Keith Williams, who has led international masterclasses across the Caribbean and the United Kingdom; Grenadian Broadway star Oneika Phillips; Rene Arneaud, who has toured with soca music superstars Machel Montano and KES the Band; and Otis Donovan Herring, who just returned from a nationwide tour with R&B groups Xscape and SWV. The festival preserves the intangible cultural heritage of dance and attracts new travelers to the island who seek creative outlets alongside the island’s beauty.

“Dance has always been a vibrant part of Grenada’s cultural traditions and a reflection of our deep African heritage, which has been preserved and maintained through generations. The Dance Grenada Festival is a powerful celebration of this legacy, allowing us to showcase our cultural diversity and talent to the world,” said CEO of The Grenada Tourism Authority, Petra Roach. “The Grenada Tourism Authority is committed to supporting initiatives like this, as they not only enrich the lives of our people but also offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the soul of our island. We believe that nurturing such festivals helps sustain our heritage while enhancing Grenada’s appeal as a cultural tourism destination,” she said.

The Dance Grenada Festival is a central hub for dance innovation, scholarship, and entrepreneurship. It celebrates its fifth season at a pivotal time for the cultural and creative industries sector with the recent creation of the Grenada Office of Creative Affairs.

“As people of the diaspora, our existence is sustained through our interaction with others. When we commune, it creates a sense of belonging that feeds the vessel that goes into the global community to thrive. Regardless of age, race, or ethnic background, the feeling of home is palpable to all who step into Dance Grenada,” said Roberts.

For more information on Dance Grenada and how you can purchase tickets to this dance festival, please visit www.dancegrenada.com.

About Dance Grenada
Dance Grenada provides a platform for Grenadian and international dance artisans to share and increase their knowledge base of traditional and contemporary dance styles and techniques through dance workshops, performances, panel discussions, and symposiums while contributing to the larger Grenadian and international dance community.

Jamaican Entrepreneur and Minority Business Advocate Fritz-Earle McLymont Passes On

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 4, 2024: The Black immigrant and business advocacy community is mourning the passing of Jamaican-born entrepreneur and business leader, Fritz-Earle McLymont. A pioneering expert in entrepreneurial development, McLymont leaves behind a remarkable legacy of over 50 years in fostering economic growth through private, not-for-profit, and quasi-government enterprises both in the United States and abroad.

Jamaican born, Black immigrant activist Fritz McLymont has died.

McLymont was a co-founder of the National Minority Business Council, Inc. and the founder and managing partner of McLymont, Kunda & Co., an international trade and business development firm based in New York. His firm boasted a diverse portfolio of clients and projects across the U.S., Africa, and the Caribbean. Since the 1970s, McLymont was known for creating innovative programs that empowered small businesses in industries ranging from chemicals to agriculture, transportation, energy, and media.

A passionate advocate for minority business, he implemented award-winning education and training programs across the U.S. and the Caribbean. McLymont’s leadership also saw him serve on numerous boards in both the private and not-for-profit sectors. His expertise was sought by the U.S. federal government, where he held a key position on a commission focused on minority business development.

McLymont’s academic achievements were equally distinguished, with an undergraduate degree in business from Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) in Montreal, Canada, and graduate studies in Community Economic Development at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Throughout his career, he was recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Concordia University Sports Hall of Fame, the Malcolm X Unity Award in 2013, and the Bronx Frontier Development Corp. Order of the Pioneer Award. His international roles included being appointed Roving Ambassador for the Caribbean America Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as serving as an advisor to the Paramount Chief of Amiiru Songhoy.

One of McLymont’s most notable career highlights was founding a chemical specialty manufacturing company in New York, which earned “favored supplier” status for the U.S. federal government. His innovative business model and partnership with a major corporation garnered recognition in The Wall Street Journal. Additionally, Mc Lymont played a critical role in developing Montego Bay’s municipal bus transport system, a project that boosted the region’s tourism infrastructure. He also managed the Export Trading Company for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, representing over 100 regional firms in global markets. His efforts were instrumental in changing the Port Authority’s stance on business relations with South Africa.

McLymont’s passing marks the end of an era for the many whose lives and businesses were transformed by his vision and leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and advocates for minority business empowerment.

The West Indies Just Got Its Second Set of Overwater Suites at Royalton Chic Antigua

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News Americas, ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Oct. 4, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts proudly announces the official opening of its 12 exclusive Overwater Suites at Royalton CHIC Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, marking a significant milestone in luxury accommodations in the Caribbean. These vibrant, state-of-the-art suites represent the second-ever overwater accommodations in the West Indies, following the debut of Royalton Antigua’s iconic Chairman Overwater Bungalows in 2019.

The launch was commemorated with an elegant ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcoming the first guests to this one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Nestled above the crystal-clear waters of Antigua, these suites offer unparalleled privacy and indulgence, complete with stunning views, overwater hammocks, and personalized butler service.

With the opening of these breathtaking Overwater Suites, Royalton CHIC Antigua redefines adults-only luxury in the region, offering travelers the perfect mix of posh sophistication, modern amenities, and a vibrant vacation atmosphere.

“We are truly excited to unveil the new Overwater Suites, our second set on the island, which are poised to transform the Caribbean travel experience by offering guests the opportunity to enjoy overwater accommodations typically found in far-flung destinations like the Maldives,” said Jurgen Stutz, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Distribution for Blue Diamond Resorts. “This opening invites adult travelers from around the world to discover the charm of Antigua, one of the region’s trendiest and most accessible destinations.”

These Overwater Suites offer guests a personalized experience tailored to exceed every expectation. Each suite boasts panoramic year-round sunset views, mesmerizing crystal-clear glass floors, private plunge pools, and direct ocean access—perfect for those seeking privacy and luxury. Enhanced with Diamond Club privileges, including dedicated butler service, guests can indulge in top-tier amenities designed for their ultimate comfort. Available in three distinctive categories—Chairman, Presidential, and Junior Suites—each accommodation provides a tranquil yet opulent retreat, while seamlessly integrating the vibrant, upscale energy that defines the ‘Party Your Way’ concept of Royalton CHIC Resorts. Here, every moment is elevated, offering a luxurious escape like no other.

The ribbon-cutting event signified not only the debut of these highly anticipated suites but also the start of a new chapter in Caribbean all-inclusive hospitality. After the ceremony, a celebratory toast with resort executives, accompanied by dazzling entertainment from the CHIC Angels, set the tone for a memorable event. Guests were then treated to an exclusive tour of the Overwater Suites, led by the resort’s General Manager, who presented the first guests with a special certificate for a future stay, commemorating their role in this historic moment for the resort.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to revolutionize the all-inclusive, adults-only segment, elevating guest expectations with these Overwater Suites that perfectly blend fun, relaxation, and exclusivity in an exciting destination like Antigua.

For more information, visit royaltonchicresorts.com

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 80 properties, exceeding 20,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, visit www.bluediamondresorts.com

Shaggy Drops Three New Tracks

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: Grammy Award-winning and Diamond-selling reggae superstar Shaggy has just dropped three new tracks as part of his latest project, the Badman Riddim. The songs – “Selector Pull It” featuring Olaf Blackwood, “Rude Bwoy Sumthin” by Junior Cat, and “Sitt’n Fi Chat” by Spice – pay homage to legendary producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes and offer a fresh take on Michael Prophet’s classic track, Gunman.

FLASHBACK – Jamaican reggae singer and DJ, Orville Richard Burrell, known as Shaggy, seen here performing on stage as part of the ‘Coca-Cola Flow Fest 2023’ reggaeton music Festival at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, has released three new music videos. (Photo by Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group) (Photo credit should read Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

The Badman Riddim brings a modern 2024 twist to the iconic reggae and dancehall sounds that Lawes pioneered in the 1980s. Shaggy, known for global hits like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Boombastic,” is not only celebrating Lawes’ influence but also collaborating with contemporary artists to keep that classic reggae vibe alive for a new generation of fans.

Shaggy teams up with Olaf Blackwood on the track “Selector Pull It,” a lively anthem that blends traditional reggae rhythms with modern beats. Junior Cat’s “Rude Bwoy Sumthin” offers a gritty, energetic performance that harkens back to the raw essence of dancehall, while Spice’s “Sitt’n Fi Chat” showcases her signature bold and confident style, bringing a powerful edge to the riddim.

Fans can also enjoy the official music videos for all three songs, now available for streaming on YouTube:

Olaf Blackwood ft. Shaggy – Selector Pull It – WATCH IT HERE

Spice – Sitt’n Fi Chat: Watch Here

Junior Cat – Rude Bwoy Sumthin: Watch Here

Shaggy’s career spans over three decades, with numerous chart-topping hits and awards under his belt. He gained worldwide fame in the 1990s with tracks like Oh Carolina and Boombastic, cementing his place in reggae and pop music history. His 2000 single It Wasn’t Me became a global sensation, reaching Diamond status for its sales and downloads. In addition to his musical success, Shaggy is known for his philanthropic work, especially through his Shaggy Make A Difference Foundation, which supports children’s hospitals in Jamaica.

With the release of Badman Riddim, Shaggy continues to evolve his sound while paying respect to the reggae and dancehall roots that shaped his career. The new songs are poised to be fan favorites, combining nostalgia with fresh energy.

Jamaican Suspense Drama Wins Best Caribbean Film at Toronto Nollywood Film Festival

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 4, 2024: The Jamaican suspense drama Behind Closed Doors, produced by Kingston-based Yaad Boiiz Productions, has won the prestigious Best Caribbean Film award at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF). The film was honored during the festival, held from September 8 to 15 in Toronto, which showcased nearly 100 films from around the world.

Producer of Behind Closed Doors Orville Matherson accepts the Best Caribbean
Film Award at The Toronto Nollywood Film Festival.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF YAAD BOIIZ PRODUCTIONS)

Behind Closed Doors emerged as a standout at the festival, earning such positive reviews that an additional screening was added on September 14. The film was met with overwhelming applause, receiving a standing ovation at its final screening.

Orville Matherson, CEO of Yaad Boiiz Productions and producer of the film, accepted the award at the festival’s closing gala. “I’m accepting this award on behalf of my entire team from Jamaica who did an amazing job on this film. The reaction we’ve received has been incredible. As a producer, I’m in heaven!” Matherson said.

Matherson, also known for producing Jamaican Mafia, shared the perseverance it took to complete Behind Closed Doors, a project that spanned six years from its start in 2018. The film faced numerous challenges, including delays due to COVID-19, but Matherson and his team remained dedicated to finishing the project.

Shot entirely in Jamaica, Behind Closed Doors is directed by Marc Anthony Deacon and written by Tachelle Ferron. The film stars Shevrado Oliver, Rachel Seaton, Pepita Little, and Leroy ‘Tommy Lee Sparta’ Russell, and tells the gripping story of a young college student who, facing financial hardship, reluctantly accepts help from a wealthy entrepreneur, only to realize the danger that comes with it.

The film’s success at TINFF is part of an impressive run on the festival circuit in 2024. Behind Closed Doors has already won Best International Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Editing at the Switzerland Film Fest, as well as Best Caribbean Drama at The International Black Diversity Film Festival.

Matherson is now seeking distribution deals and recently represented Jamaica at Fame Week Africa in Cape Town, where he is in talks with major distributors and streaming platforms. A soundtrack for the film is also in the works, with premieres planned for Jamaica and several other countries.