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How A ‘Green Card Play’ Gave This Jamaican Playwright His Real ‘Green Card’

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 5, 2025: Jamaican-born playwright and actor David Heron is set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his acclaimed romantic comedy, Love and Marriage and New York City, with a special staged reading at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) in Queens on Sunday, June 22 at 7 p.m. The event, part of New York City’s Caribbean American Heritage Month festivities, will be preceded by a complimentary Caribbean cuisine reception at 5:30 p.m.

From left to right- Andrew Lawrence, Denise Hunt, David Heron and Maylynne
Walton in the 2003 UK touring production of Love and Marriage and New York City.
(Photo courtesy of Sure Thing Productions.)

Heron, who will produce and direct the one-night-only performance, reflects on the play’s significance in his life: “My ‘green card play’ Love and Marriage and New York City was not only a critical and commercial success but earned me the green card that changed the entire course of my life and career.”

The play, which debuted in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1999, tells the story of two Jamaican couples in Manhattan who marry for green card purposes, only to discover that love complicates their arrangements. After its Jamaican premiere, the production toured South Florida, the UK, and Canada, and had an Off-Broadway run at Brooklyn’s Billie Holiday Theatre in 2005. It was also an official selection of the 2007 National Black Theatre Festival.

David Heron (Photo courtesy of Sure Thing Productions)

Heron emphasizes the play’s continued relevance:

“Over twenty-five years after its world premiere, Love and Marriage and New York City remains as topical as ever, dealing with the immensely critical and complicated subject of immigration. It highlights the allure of the American dream to immigrants everywhere and the extent to which people will go to achieve it—with romantic, dramatic, and comedic consequences.”

The upcoming performance will feature a talented cast, including Denise Hunt as Jessica, Shevrado Oliver as Damian, James Duke Walker as Theo, and Gabrielle C. Archer as Natalie. Hunt returns to the production after portraying Natalie in the 2003 UK tour.

Tickets for the Silver Anniversary Performance are available at loveandmarriagetheplay.eventbrite.com. High school and college students aged 16 and over, as well as theater interns from the New York Tri-State area, can attend for free through Heron’s Sure Thing Productions Free Student Ticket Initiative. For more information, contact 646-533-7021 or eventbrite.com

Vybz Kartel No-Show In Trinidad Sparks Promoter Backlash, Urgent Call For Industry Reform

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News Americas, New York, NY, June 2, 2025: The highly anticipated return of Jamaican dancehall star Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer to the Trinidad and Tobago stage has ignited controversy, with the Trinidad and Tobago Promoters Association, (TTPA) now distancing itself from the failed event and warning of industry-wide fallout.

FLASHBACK – Vybz Kartel attends Vybz & Friends Live In Concert – Sunrise, FL at Amerant Bank Arena on May 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

In a sharply worded statement released today, the TTPA expressed “extreme concern” over the circumstances surrounding the no-show of Kartel at the One Caribbean Musical Festival, (OCMF) this past weekend. The association clarified that the event’s promoter, JACHO Entertainment, is not a member of the TTPA and does not represent the broader promoter community in the twin-island republic.

“We do not speak for or on behalf of this group,” the association stated firmly. “However, when events fail, the impact ripples across the entire entertainment industry, harming our collective reputation and economic stability.”

The fallout began Saturday when Kartel’s management team announced the artist would not perform, citing the promoter’s failure to meet contractual obligations despite months of attempts to resolve issues.

“Vybz Kartel cannot in good conscience participate in an event where the organizers have not honored their basic commitments,” the team stated, noting the artist had been paid US$950,000 of a US$1.35 million contract, with an additional US$150,000 reportedly sent to his legal team. The remaining funds, the promoters claim, were withheld due to local financial regulations prohibiting large cash disbursements.

In a direct message to fans via Instagram on May 31, Kartel further revealed that he had clashed with the Trinidad and Tobago government after the promoter suggested he visit a youth center or school – something the artist says he never agreed to. “I’m an entertainer,” Kartel said. “My job is to perform for the people.”

He also accused the promoter of poor planning, alleging they ignored advice not to hold the event during Carnival season. “Not every promoter can manage a Kartel show. It takes a lot,” the Grammy-nominated artist added, while expressing regret that fans were robbed of the chance to see him live.

The TTPA echoed Kartel’s sentiment, stating the failed event did not meet the high standards associated with Trinidad and Tobago’s global reputation for event production. The organization now wants to use the incident as a catalyst for reform.

“We believe it is time to broaden the dialogue with government and private sector partners,” the TTPA said. The group is calling for deep legislative changes specific to the entertainment and tourism sectors, aiming to better protect patrons, creatives, and producers from similar debacles in the future.

They’ve proposed resuming negotiations with the Office of the Attorney General to draft and pass modern legislation tailored to the needs of the industry.

Meanwhile, T&T Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo says he is intrigued by the amount of foreign exchange being mentioned in relation to payment fees for artistes involved in the One Caribbean Music Festival and has requested an investigation. Saturday’s event was reportedly sold out, but the attendance was poor, as many patrons did not bother to attend due to Kartel’s absence and instead demanded a refund.

Videos of irate attendees venting their frustrations by storming the stage, throwing bottles or even dancing half-naked made their way around social media yesterday, as thousands tuned in to witness the unfolding debacle at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.

The organisers said they are committed to addressing how patrons will be reimbursed. An official acknowledged that some form of compensation may be necessary and noted that this will be discussed and finalised in the coming days.

Ticket prices ranged from $670 for general admission to $2,700 for VVIP. Representatives of the US-based company said it will seek legal redress for the collapsed deal, as it is now at risk of losing millions of dollars. It said while it is now accepted that it will suffer a loss, it will try to recover as much money as possible from the local partner – Jacho Entertainment Ltd

Jacho Entertainment Ltd. is a San Fernando-based entertainment, events and promotions company that was incorporated in 2015. Its two directors are Odane Anderson, events promoter, and Petel Jones, senior accountant.

As the dust settles, what’s clear is that the Kartel controversy has reignited urgent questions about promoters accountability and regulatory gaps.

Ronald Fenty – 7 Fast Facts About His Life and Legacy

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 31, 2025: Ronald Fenty, the father of global music icon and National Hero Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has reportedly passed away at the age of 70, following a brief illness in Los Angeles, according to reports from Starcom Network News in Barbados.

FLASHBACK – Ronald Fenty (L) and Monica Braithwaite arrive at Rihanna’s First Annual Diamond Ball at The Vineyard on December 11, 2014 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)

Here are fast facts about the Barbadian patriarch whose life story has been as complex as it was influential:

1. Barbadian Roots

Ronald Fenty was born in 1954 in Barbados, where he raised his family with then-wife Monica Braithwaite. The couple lived in a small bungalow in Bridgetown, on a street now famously renamed Rihanna Drive.

2. Father of Six

Fenty was the father of six children, including Rihanna, Rajad, and Rorrey Fenty from his marriage to Braithwaite, and Jamie, Samantha, and Kandy Fenty from previous relationships. He was also a grandfather to Rihanna’s 2 children.

Ronald Fenty attends the Wayke Up fundraiser at Sofitel Hotel on December 14, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)

3. Early Family Life

Rihanna, born in 1988, lived in Barbados until the age of 16. She shared a modest home with her parents and siblings. Ronald and Monica officially divorced in 2002, when Rihanna was 14.

4. A Complicated Relationship

Fenty’s relationship with Rihanna was filled with both love and strain. After Rihanna was assaulted in 2009, Fenty made headlines for speaking to the media without her consent—something she later called “really strange.” They experienced periods of estrangement and reconciliation over the years.

5. Struggles with Addiction

Rihanna has publicly spoken about the difficulties in her parents’ marriage, citing domestic abuse and her father’s struggles with addiction. These experiences shaped her childhood, leading to physical symptoms like chronic headaches during stressful periods.

6. Reconciliation and Legal Dispute

Despite past issues, Rihanna revealed in a 2012 interview with Oprah that she had “repaired” her relationship with her father. However, in 2019, she sued him for allegedly misusing her name through a company he founded, Fenty Entertainment. The lawsuit was dismissed just before trial in 2021.

7. Legacy and Loss

Ronald Fenty passed away in Los Angeles, reportedly with family by his side. Rihanna, who is currently pregnant with her third child, has not yet issued a public statement. While their journey was marked by ups and downs, Fenty remained a significant figure in the life of one of the world’s most influential artists.

This Weekend’s Must-Hear Caribbean Tracks

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 30, 2025: This weekend, take a pause from the everyday hustle and dive into the rich, rhythmic world of Caribbean music. From legendary voices to rising stars, here’s a curated list of new Caribbean tunes you should know – and vibe to—this weekend.

Glen Washington’s “Just Giving Thanks” Album

Veteran reggae singer Glen Washington returns with his highly anticipated album, Just Giving Thanks, out today via Tad’s International Record. Featuring 14 heartfelt tracks written entirely by Washington himself, the album blends spiritual reflections with classic lovers rock.

Tracks like “Chant Them Down” and “Oh, To Be Like Him” carry deep spiritual messages, reflecting Washington’s mindset over the past five years. However, fans of his lovers rock style won’t be disappointed with tracks like “Sweet Loving And Affection,” “Loving You Forever,” and “Love Will Never Run Away.”

Produced by Tad Dawkins Jr., the album also features an all-star lineup of musicians including Flabba Holt, Donald “Danny Bassie” Dennis, Franklyn “Bubbla” Waul, Kirk Bennett, and Dean Fraser.

Check it out HERE

Lady Da Flame’s Answer to Khago’s “2 Time”

Fresh off a UK tour, reggae powerhouse Lady Da Flame has dropped Second Time—a compelling answer track to Khago’s popular 2 Time. The song has quickly gained traction on social media, radio, and even hit the airwaves on Hot 97.

“I love Khago’s song on the riddim and felt it would be fitting for a woman to share her side of the argument,” she said. Known for infusing emotion and authenticity into her music, Lady Da Flame brings vulnerability and power in equal measure.

Listen to Second Time

More Caribbean Vibes to Explore This Weekend:

“Conversation” by Jahvillani – A lyrical gem from YGF Records & Scotty’s Muzik
LISTEN HERE

“Platinum Buff” by Pablo YG & Stalk Ashley – A slick new drop from YGF
LISTEN HERE

“Winey Don” by Asabi & Retlaw Tha Future – A dancehall vibe with flavor
LISTEN HERE

“Pretty Like” by Tatik – A fresh, melodic anthem
LISTEN HERE

“We Nuh See Them” by Problem Child – Soca meets grit
LISTEN HERE

“Damage” by Dadamill – Real talk from YGF Records & Scotty’s Muzik
LISTEN HERE

Whether you’re winding down or getting ready to step out, these tracks are perfect for setting your weekend soundtrack straight.

Vybz Kartel Cleared To Perform In Trinidad After 15-Year Hiatus

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 29, 2025: Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is set to make a triumphant return to Trinidad after 15 years, having received official clearance to headline the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival this Saturday, May 31, at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain. This performance marks a significant milestone in his career, following his release from prison in 2024.

Kartel and Spice performing in Brooklyn, NY.

Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer, has been granted a special seven-day permit under Section 10(1) of Trinidad and Tobago’s Immigration Act 22/2025. The permit, labeled Form 17, exempts him from visa and work permit requirements but comes with specific conditions. These include restrictions on public engagements and content, such as prohibitions on participating in crime awareness events and performing songs like “Good Like Jesus” that may be deemed offensive. Additionally, he is required to post a security bond, the amount of which has not been disclosed.

Despite these limitations, anticipation for Kartel’s performance is high. Jonathan Gomez, Digital Marketing Lead for the festival, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The Worl’ Boss has now been officially cleared to arrive and perform in Trinidad, so all roads lead to the Queen’s Park Savannah this Saturday night, where Vybz Kartel will deliver an electrifying performance, alongside some of the nation and the region’s top acts.”

This event is part of Kartel’s broader “Worl’ Boss Tour,” which includes stops in Guyana, the United States, Europe, and Jamaica. The tour follows his release from prison after his 2011 murder conviction was overturned due to juror misconduct. His return to the stage is seen as a significant moment for fans and the dancehall community alike.

Jamaican-Born ‘Game of Thrones’ Actor Lands Leading Roles In Two Major TV Projects

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 27, 2025: Jamaican-born actor Marcos James, best known to global audiences as White Rat in HBO’s Emmy Award-winning epic Game of Thrones, is stepping into a new chapter of his career with two leading roles in upcoming television productions. The projects, backed by acclaimed directors and established production companies, signal a career-defining moment for the versatile performer.

Jamaican born Marcos James as White Rat in HBO’s Game Of Thrones. (PHOTO CREDIT- HBO)

James will take on the role of ‘Pastor Mac’ Smith-Cage in The Religion Business, a compelling docuseries set to premiere on Amazon and Apple TV on July 10. Directed by two-time Emmy Award winner Nathan Apffel (Fins), the seven-part series blends documentary and dramatized elements to explore the global evolution and commercialization of Christianity. James’ character—a fictional religious leader and bestselling author—appears in the scripted segments, bringing to life a vibrant, polarizing figure inspired by modern-day celebrity preachers.

“Playing Pastor Mac was a transformative experience,” James shared. “On my first day, the entire shoot focused solely on my scenes. I stepped aside for a moment to center myself, and then dove in. The intensity of that role made it one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.”

The docuseries uses dramatized scenes to amplify its examination of faith and finance, spotlighting the growing influence – and profitability – of religion. James described his character as “a colorful, extremely charismatic showman” whose presence is designed to provoke thought and debate on the role of personality in the pulpit.

Jamaican-born actor Marcos James returns in two major tv roles on Apple TV and Amazon. (PHOTO CREDIT- JOHN GORE)

In a striking departure from the pulpit to pulse-pounding action, James has also wrapped production on Cabin Pressure, a made-for-television action thriller directed by Peter Sullivan (The Sandman, The Merry Gentlemen). In this production, James stars as Kody, a fierce, physical antagonist who brings an edge to the film’s explosive storyline. The project reunites James with Hybrid Productions, the team behind Keeping Up With The Joneses, a Lifetime Movie Network series in which he appeared across two seasons alongside stars Vivica A. Fox and Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts.

“For any actor, repeat business is one of the highest compliments,” James said. “Being brought back by Hybrid Productions for a lead role that pushed me physically and emotionally was a huge step. Working with fight director Cole McKay—who has collaborated with Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise—was an incredible experience.”

While details of the Cabin Pressure plot remain under wraps, the production is expected to premiere later this year on a soon-to-be-announced platform. James teased the action-packed nature of the film, praising its intense fight choreography and the high level of production value.

The dual releases mark a significant milestone for the actor, allowing him to showcase his range in two dramatically different roles—one a fiery spiritual leader, the other a commanding action figure.

“I’ve always wanted to immerse myself in roles that challenge me,” James said. “These two characters couldn’t be more different, but both demanded everything an actor has to offer. With them releasing in such close succession, I have the chance to show audiences and the industry what I can really do.”

With additional credits including My Mate Is a Vampire, UK indie features Reunion and Number 203, and a starring role in the British stage production The Mahabharata, James’ body of work reflects an actor with global range and growing impact. Represented by Greg Bekkers of Apollo Management, James is poised to reach new heights as he continues to expand his presence on the international stage.

“These roles are more than just opportunities—they’re a signal that I’ve arrived at a new level in my career,” James concluded. “And I’m just getting started.”

Jamaican Jazz Icon Monty Alexander To Bring Caribbean Magic To US West Coast

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, May 27, 2025: In a career spanning over six decades, Jamaican-born jazz pianist Monty Alexander has built a legacy on his ability to blend the rhythms of his Caribbean heritage with the improvisational spirit of American jazz. This summer, the Grammy-nominated artist embarks on a West Coast tour, bringing his distinctive sound to four cities – from May 31st to June 8th.

The tour kicks off on May 31st at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, with a special benefit concert for The Jazz Bakery. Originally scheduled as a standard performance, the show transformed into a fundraiser after The Jazz Bakery faced unexpected funding cuts that threatened its operations. Upon learning of the situation, Alexander volunteered to perform, turning the evening into a celebration of resilience and community support. He will be joined by bassist Luke Sellick, and drummer Jason Brown for an 8 p.m. performance.

Following Los Angeles, Alexander heads to Yoshi’s at 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA., on June 1st. Known for its intimate setting and rich history, Yoshi’s provides the perfect backdrop for Alexander’s dynamic performance style. Audiences can expect a setlist that traverses jazz standards, reggae-infused compositions, and original works that showcase his virtuosic technique and emotional depth.

On June 2nd, the tour continues to the Kuumbwa Jazz Center at 320 Cedar St. in Santa Cruz.  Show time is 7 p.m. sharp. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Kuumbwa has long been a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Alexander’s appearance there underscores the venue’s commitment to presenting world-class talent.

The tour concludes with a four-night ‘residency’ at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley in Seattle from June 5th to June 8th from 7:30 PM nightly. A staple in the Pacific Northwest’s jazz scene, Jazz Alley offers an intimate environment where Alexander’s interplay with Sellick and Brown can truly shine.

Tour Dates & Tickets:

May 31: The Jazz Bakery at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA.  Tickets range from $54.23 – $312.98 including fees and can be accessed HERE

June 1: Yoshi’s, Oakland, CA. Tickets for this show range from $51.10 and can be obtained HERE

June 2: Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Santa Cruz, CA. Advance tickets are $52.45 and $52.50 at the door. Buy tickets HERE

June 5–8: Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle, WA. Tickets are $43.50 and can be bought HERE

ABOUT MONTY

Born on June 6, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander’s musical journey began early. By the age of four, he was playing Christmas carols by ear, and by 14, he was performing in local clubs. His move to the United States in the early 1960s marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him collaborate with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, and Ray Brown. His discography spans over 75 recordings, reflecting a versatility that bridges genres and generations.

Alexander’s contributions to music have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Order of Jamaica and the Commander in the Order of Distinction from the Jamaican government. His performances are characterized by a blend of technical mastery and heartfelt expression, qualities that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

This West Coast tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Alexander’s artistry live. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, these performances promise an evening of exceptional jazz that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

CONNECT

Stay connected with Alexander’s latest updates by following him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander, on Twitter at  @_MontyAlexander and on Instagram at monty.alexander You can also explore his music on his YouTube channel or his official website, montyalexander.com.

Toni Braxton For Reggae Sumfest 2025 In Jamaica

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. May 26, 2025: Grammy-winning R&B sensation Toni Braxton is set to headline International Night 2 of Reggae Sumfest 2025, bringing her signature soulful sound to Montego Bay’s Catherine Hall Stadium on Saturday, July 19, according to festival CEO Josef “Joe” Bogdanovich.

Toni Braxton, seen here at Lupus LA Cuisine For A Cause at Vibiana on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California, is set to perform at Reggae Sumfest 2025. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)

Braxton, known for timeless hits like Un-Break My Heart, Breathe Again, and He Wasn’t Man Enough, will bring a unique flavor to the usually high-energy reggae and dancehall festival. Her performance marks a major crossover moment, further solidifying Reggae Sumfest’s reputation as a global cultural showcase.

“The inclusion of international R&B icon Toni Braxton takes this year’s festival to another level,” said Bogdanovich. “Her presence is a monumental crossover moment that underscores Sumfest’s global pull.”

Joining Braxton on International Night 2 are top reggae acts including Tarrus Riley, Protoje, Fantan Mojah, Lila Ike, Bugle, I-Wayne, and Pressure, ensuring a night of lyrical depth and rich musical variety.

International Night 1, set for earlier in the week, will feature Jamaica’s own Vybz Kartel, making waves with his highly anticipated appearance, alongside Masicka, Govana, Jamal, D’Yani, Laden, Shaneil Muir, Jah Fabio, and Skeng, known for his high-octane performances. Ghanaian Afro-fusion artist Moliy, whose hit Shake It To The Max is lighting up Caribbean airwaves, will add an Afrobeat fusion to the lineup.

Set to run from July 13–19, 2025, Reggae Sumfest continues to be a cultural anchor for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. For over 30 years, the festival has celebrated the heart of Jamaican music and identity, while evolving into a global attraction.

“Sumfest is more than a festival,” Bogdanovich emphasized. “It’s a celebration of everything Jamaica represents — the music, the food, the fashion, the energy, and the resilience. From the stage to the streets, it tells the story of Jamaica with pride and authenticity.”

With the support of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and a strategic blend of international outreach and grassroots promotions, Sumfest is increasingly positioning Jamaica as a hub of creativity, culture, and innovation. Bogdanovich noted that the festival has become a key cultural export, targeting not just local and regional fans, but also the Caribbean diaspora in the U.S., UK, Canada, and Africa.

“We’re not just promoting a festival — we’re promoting an experience, a cultural movement, and the true energy of Jamaica,” he added.

Busy Signal Drops Summer Anthem “Party Next Door”

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 23, 2025: Jamaican dancehall star Busy Signal is officially turning up the heat and kicking off the summer party season with a high-energy bang, thanks to his sizzling new single “Party Next Door,” now streaming on all major platforms via Nuh Rush Records and distributed by Tuff Gong International.

Known for igniting dancefloors across the globe, the Jamaican hitmaker has teamed up once again with veteran producer and longtime collaborator IamNuhRush, (aka Junior Brown), to deliver what’s already being hailed as a summer anthem. And if the music alone doesn’t do it for you, the just-dropped official video will.

Premiered exclusively on Boomshots, the go-to platform for reggae and dancehall culture, the video is everything a party lover dreams of—sun-soaked vibes, big riddims, tight security, and a guest list hotter than the Jamaican sun. Directed by the creative force 300, the visuals take fans to a hilltop mansion bash where bottles pop, the vibes are up, and the music hits hard. Adding a dose of humor is rising actor Trilla Milla, who plays a persistent gatecrasher trying every trick to get into the event – until Busy himself clears the way.

“Turning up to dancehall, take it back to basic, original dem cah replace it,” Busy chants in the track, which is laced with heavy bass and infectious hooks that guarantee this one’s destined to dominate playlists and party scenes from Kingston to Queens.

Rob Kenner, founding editor of Boomshots, nailed the sentiment perfectly: “What better way to kick off Memorial Day weekend than with this banger? ‘Party Next Door’ is a prime example of a champion DJ in action.”

The release comes just in time for the start of summer and carries Busy Signal’s unmistakable stamp of energy, versatility, and global appeal. Fans of the dancehall icon know to expect nothing less. With past hits like “Watch Out For This (Bumaye)” with Major Lazer, “Come Over,” and “Bedroom Bully,” Busy has consistently delivered, fusing Caribbean flavor with global beats including Afrobeat, EDM, hip hop, and Soca.

This isn’t the first magic Busy and IamNuhRush have made together. Their previous collaborations – like “Big Chune,” “Steam Chalice,” and “Cruising”—have all garnered acclaim. But “Party Next Door” is poised to take their creative synergy to new heights.

So whether you’re on a rooftop in New York, a beach in Miami, or a yard in Montego Bay, turn up the volume – because Busy Signal just declared that summer has officially started.

WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO HERE

Decolonising Co-Production: CaribbeanTales Brings The Diaspora Home

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News Americas, BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, May 20,2025: The Caribbean is calling her children home.

In just 3 weeks, the Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025, hosted by CaribbeanTales Media Group, (CTMG), in partnership with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts, UWI Cave Hill,  will bring together leading film and television producers  from the UK, Canada, South Africa, the US, and across the Caribbean. They will join creatives, cultural entrepreneurs and the general public, for five powerful days in beautiful Barbados.

Under the theme “Decolonising Co-Production,” the Forum will explore innovative ways to foster collaboration through the empowering lens of the Global South.

“We’re creating a space where Global South producers from around the world can meet on our home soil to together shape new models of financing, storytelling, and ownership,” said Frances-Anne Solomon, founder of CTMG and the visionary force behind the Forum.

Canada will have the largest number of film producers at this year’s Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025, hosted by CaribbeanTales Media Group, (CTMG), in partnership with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts and UWI Cave Hill.

Producers will be joining from the following countries:

Canada  – (10)Jennifer HolnessFloyd KaneJennifer PodemskiAndrew Burrows-TrotmanNauzanin KnightGail MauriceVirinder SinghIfe AlabaGeorge Tamakloe

Yejide Emioladipupo

United Kingdom – (6)Ameenah Ayub AllenJonte RichardsonEmma GrazetteLauren GeeFemi Oyeniran

Victoria Thomas

The Caribbean

            Trinidad & Tobago – (3)

Sophie WalcottCamille Abrahams

Shari Petti

            Barbados – (4)

Penelope HynamAlison  Sealy SmithRyan Wilfred

Sheldon St.Clair

                The Bahamas – (3)

Tabitha RitchieKarel Pinder

Maria Govan

            The Dominican Republic – (2)

Eunice Levis

Jenna Cavelle

            Guyana – (2)

Victoria Arjoon

Mason Richar

South Africa – (2)Nhlanhla Mthethwa

SB Sithebe

A Forum For Cultural, Economic, And Creative Evolution

Now in its second year, CCF aims to become a vital platform for reshaping co-production norms and building lasting partnerships across borders.

For the Canada Media Fund, one of the Forum’s key funders, the sense of homecoming is profound. During the Forum’s online opening, CMF’s Joy Loewen remarked, “It’s long overdue. We need to build meaningful and sustainable bridges between our industries and our communities.”

The event addresses critical inequities in the global media production landscape. Agnieszka Moody, Head of International Relations at the British Film Institute, emphasized, “The old models of production and co-production disproportionately favor the Global North. The Cross Continental Forum offers a space to create a blueprint for new ones built on trust, equity, and shared legacy.”

More Than Culture This Is Economic Empowerment

South African producer Kethiwe Ngcobo reflected on the significance of this gathering, “We are here to work, to connect, and to create wealth from our stories. This is not just about culture – it’s about economics. And it starts with us, together.”

ABOUT THE CROSS CONTINENTAL FORUM

The Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025 is a production of CaribbeanTales Media Group in collaboration with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts (UWI Cave Hill). Support for the CCF is generously provided by numerous organizations, including the Canada Media Fund, British Film Institute, Mango Bay Group of Companies, Invest Barbados, Inter-American Development Bank, Picture NL, National Cultural Foundation of Barbados, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, Barbados Film and Television Association, Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago, Telefilm Canada, and many other international partners.

Guiding CCF 2025 is a Steering Group comprised of: Frances-Anne Solomon (CEO, CaribbeanTales Media Group), Andrew Millington (Head, Department of Creative and Performing Arts – UWI Cave Hill), CCH Pounder (Guyanese-born actor and activist), Dr. Keith Nurse (Founding Chair, CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution and President of COSTAATT), Zikethiwe Ngcobo (CEO, Fuzebox Entertainment, South Africa), John Reid (Former CEO of FLOW Telecommunications, Caribbean and Latin America), Agnieszka Moody (Head of International Relations, British Film Institute), Chloe Sosa Simms (CBC Senior Advisor, Acquisitions), and international events producer Diana Webley (Director of Events, CaribbeanTales Media Group).