The 10th Annual Fish and Dragon Festival at the Garfield Sobers Complex on Saturday evening saw a harmonious blend of Barbadian and Chinese cultures. Coordinated by The People’s Republic of China in Barbados and the Central Bank of Barbados, this family-oriented affair marked a return to live performances post-COVID-19. The venue was teeming with a large audience, overflowing from the floor area into the stands.
This year’s expo boasted an increased number of booths. Notable participants included the Chinese Embassy, offering information on scholarship opportunities; Going Places Travel, promoting travel packages to Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an; and the Chinese Enterprise Association of Barbados, showcasing their range of services. Some daring attendees even experienced acupuncture at a dedicated booth. The delectable Chinese cuisine on sale was an additional allure.
The collaboration of talents was evident as stilt men and Chinese dragons moved seamlessly, captivating both adults and children. Touching the dragon promised good luck, and many eagerly sought this opportunity. The festival featured engaging activities like the ring toss, where children competed for Chinese-themed toys. Attendees enjoyed table tennis and road tennis exhibitions, receiving tips from renowned local players such as Mark Dowell.
The cultural richness of the Chinese was spotlighted with the introduction of new instruments, including the Erhu played by Zhou Yuhan. The Taiji Wushu Association showcased martial arts, and the Chinese Medical Team in Barbados displayed their talents through a dance accompanied by a flutist. The Confucius Institute members, featuring dancer Jessica Chow and young vocalists, added diversity to the event.
The Christ Church Foundation School Steel Orchestra delivered a lively mix of soca hits, including a medley of Edwin Yearwood tunes. Their outstanding performance earned calls for an encore, and they responded with RPB’s “Something’s Happening.” “Dancin’ Africa” added a colorful touch to Lil Rick’s “Iz a Bajan.”
The local lineup included the Black Banana band led by Lowrey Worrell, with backing vocals by Shekara Straker and Jeliah Boyce. Saxophonist Jelani Belgrave joined this session, providing accompaniment for Reniece Bonnett, who started with Rihanna’s “Diamonds” before transitioning to her own Crop Over offerings, “Property” and “Show Me Love.” RPB had the audience rocking with “Hallelujah” and “Ragga Ragga.”
Closing this spectacular segment was Edwin Yearwood, who held the crowd in the palm of his hands with a string of hits.
Hysteria ensued when he invited some of his young fans onto the stage. The event producer was Adisa ‘AJA’ Andwele (STT).
