After cancelling this year’s West Indian American Day Carnival parade amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Brooklyn-based West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), organizer of the annual carnival spectacle, has announced “Back to Love” for a virtual New York Caribbean Carnival 2020.
On Friday, Aug. 28, WIADCA said it will present International Youth Fest 2020, at 6:00 p.m, comprising a virtual end of summer Caribbean Talent showcase, “promoting performing arts and cultural diversity, where all performances are welcome.”
WIADCA said the show can be seen at https://bit.ly/3gWnlic.
On Friday, Sept., 4, the NY Carnival Brass Fest will be held from 8:00 – 11:00 pm.
“Let’s get ‘Back to Love!” WIADCA urged. “Join us for New York Carnival’s first virtual Music Fest, an experience that requires no curtain, no fancy stage — just pure love and vibes.
“In safety, distanced at home, enjoy Caribbean music ambassadors as they bring soca, Afrobeats, reggae and kompa sounds direct to you,” WIADCA added, stating that the show can also be seen at https://bit.ly/3gWnlic.
All other shows can be seen at https://bit.ly/3gWnli, including the One Love Virtual Road, a “Virtu-Live” Carnival experience, on Monday, Sept. 7, and Panology on Saturday, Sept. 26.
“Get ready for Brooklyn’s first ‘Virtu-Live’ Carnival experience!” WIADCA said, stating that it’s “a coordinated effort to unite our cultural partners, acknowledge past and present supporters, and elected officials, honor essential workers and those we lost as this year’s Virtual Marshals.
“This momentous occasion will mark our city’s strength and resilience in the midst of COVID tragedies,” it added. “At home, viewers can tune in live to view documentary-style clips of carnival and J’ouvert celebrations, partner messages, performances and more.
“For youth and adult masqueraders, you can still put on your costume and show the world your homemade designs,” WIADCA continued.
Panology will be held from 8:00 pm -11:00 pm.
“Calling all pan enthusiasts. Are you missing Brooklyn’s Panorama? Have no fear, Panology is here!” WIADCA assured, urging enthusiasts to join it, along with Pan in Motion, for “some pan yard talk as we delve into the revolution of the steel pan.
“Log on to enjoy the sweet sounds of steelpan from the comfort of your home,” it added.
“COVID-19 has robbed us of many loved ones,” said Trinidadian Angela Sealy, longtime WIADCA board member and current chairperson. “Our cultures, our roots, and faith will move us forward past the pain.
“Talented young people on our new board and within our membership understand what must be done. Feel confident and stay committed,” she added.
“The WIADCA legacy continues uninterrupted,” the carnival group assured. “For 2020, we go viral as we inaugurate our 54th year using technology and digital media.
“COVID-19 will not break us,” it added. “We refuse to give in. As the tip of the spear that leads into the future, the show must go on for generations to come.”
Look out for virtual program updates via www.wiadcacarnival.org and social media platforms.
For questions or more information, call 718-467-1797.
