Bajan Paradise is set to storm Eastern Parkway on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, with a 200-strong mas band depicting “I Am Soca.” Bandleader Paul Griffin is excited about showcasing a kaleidoscope of colorful costumes that he said would truly celebrate the culture and beauty of Barbados.
The St. George, Barbados native who is passionate about keeping his culture alive, says the band gets better every year, and he is determine more than ever to get the revelers in costume so that ‘we can bring home our first title”
To this end, in addition to competing in the medium band category, the band will for the first time in its three-year history, enter an individual queen to shore-up its chances to be named the best band of the year.
“Bajans are not only about wearing Tee Shirts, we are also known for designing great costumes. We will win if we have you in costume, added Griffin, who thanked his loyal masqueraders, but wants Caribbean people to understand that being a part of Carnival is a celebration of their culture and is inviting everyone, to visit the Mas Camp.
Chief Operations Officer Elon Lovell and costume designer Kimberley Simmonds are now adding the final touches to the three-section band, which will capture the island’s beautiful aquamarine waters, tourist-draw, and historic sights.
Masqueraders will revel in “Aquamarine,” “Calypso,” “Wuk Up On Gunhill,” and “Silver Dollar,” during the band’s fourth presentation on the Parkway that is set to compete in the adult category.
Bringing her wealth of experience from Goddess International Mas, Kimberley Simmons will unleash a barrage of skimpy two-piece ensembles decorated with tons of beads, feathers and glitter to dazzle the judges.
The costumes are priced from $180.00 to $200.00 and could be purchased at the Bajan Paradise Mas Camp, located at Culpepper’s Restaurant, at the corner of Nostrand Avenue and Lincoln Place. Bajan Paradise is opened from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Paul Griffin could be reached at 917-681-4346 or via email: bajanparadise@verizon.net. Visit www.bajanparadise.com.
