It was a night to remember…Friday 2nd October 2015, ladies in their Sunday best and men dressed to impress. It was the Dominica’Erika’Disaster Benefit Showcase an event organised by the High Commission for the Commonwealth of Dominica, the Dominica Erika Disaster Relief Committee in collaboration with the National Development and Disaster Fund and supported by the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham and the CARICOM High Commissions in London.
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Supporters traveled from all over the United Kingdom to pledge financial and moral support for their relatives, friends and compatriots back in Dominica who are, in many ways still suffering the after effects of the destructive Hurricane Erika of August 25th 2015 which is dubbed the deadliest natural disaster in Dominica’s history since Hurricane David in 1979.
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
For a nominal £15.00 admission patrons were treated to an evening of music, dance and comedy in the distinguished presence of CARICOM High Commissioners and their representatives; and former West Indies Cricket Captain, Clive Lloyd.
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
The Hammersmith Town Hall was packed with many standees eager to witness a rare performance of the now retired calypso king of the world Slinger Francisco ORTT CMT OBE aka ‘The Mighty Sparrow’. Many acts that preceded Sparrow included Shola Ama, Keith Waithe, Soca Johnny, Glenda Jaxson, Santiago, Aretha Fontaine, Ras Charmer, the Quadrille Dancers and more…
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The event was co-MC’d by Martin J aka Soca Prince and BBC Radio presenter Valley Fontaine assisted by the legendary actor / comedian / BBC radio presenter Eddie Nestor.
What was particularly special about the event was the mixture of Caribbean nationals including Jamaicans, Grenadians, Bajans, Trinidadians, Saint Lucians, Antiguans and even Nigerians, all keen on doing their bit for their fellow man in need.
Comedienne Glenda Jaxson. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
The much anticipated performance by Sparrow was truly the highlight of the evening as patrons hastily left their seats and rushed to the front of the stage in unison as if they were responding to a personal invitation from the ‘Calypso Supremo’ himself.
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
In spite of his now frail and deliberate posture, quite distinct from the swift, nimble and witty earlier years, the man affectionately known as ‘Birdie’ was an immediate hit, not just with the women but with all who had the pleasure of witnessing an 80 year old musical genius at work.
Musician Keith Waithe. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Sparrow belted out some favourites such as Congo Man, Salt fish, Jean and Dinah, Only a fool and others for over half an hour but which felt like he was just getting started.
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It’s fair to say from speaking with many attendees that they had a fantastic time. The remarks from the High Commissioner for Dominica Hon Janet Charles was no different as she praised the community for their support and rendered a special thank you to all the acts and performers who gave of their time and talent for FREE in aid of the people of Dominica.
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Comedian / Actor / BBC Radio presenter Eddie Nestor. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Mighty Sparrow. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Mighty Sparrow. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Quadrille Dancers. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Organiser Vincent John holding bottle of champagne. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Prize winner flanked by Valley Fontaine and Vincent John. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Clive Lloyd and Grenada High Commissioner HE Josyln Whiteman. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
HE Janet Charles, High Commissioner for Dominica. Photo courtesy CaribDirect.com
Article and photography by David F. Roberts
