Morgan Heritage, Alaine among major stars coming

Excitement is building in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the neighbouring US Virgin Islands as a group of renowned artistes gear up to take patrons on a musical high in the BVI capital this Friday and Saturday, May 26 and 27.

The galaxy of international stars set to perform include Etienne Charles, Morgan Heritage, as well as Dean Frazer featuring Alaine and Karen Smith.

Nine local artistes will also perform at the Tortola Pier Park’s first annual Jazz and Style Festival. They include Dalan Vanterpool, Kamau Georges, and Jeremy Vanterpool.

“With a selection of some of the top local musicians in the territory to complement the international acts, we are confident that this event will be one to remember,” said Meslyn Allan, Leasing and Marketing Manager of Tortola Pier Park Limited.

She added that, with the major shows being days away, organizers are adding the finishing touches.

“We are very excited about the event and are ready to execute a spectacular Jazz & Style Festival that the BVI can be proud of and attendees can enjoy,” added Allan. Admission fee is $35 per night.

In addition to the stage shows, the festival includes complimentary events such as Lunch Time Jazz on May 24, Jazz on the Board Walk on May 25, and Cool Down Jazz on May 28.

It also features a must-see fashion showcase of designs crafted by popular local designers. There will also be trendy clothing, jewellery, and accessories in stores at the Tortola Pier Park.

“With a fantastic lineup scheduled for the event, Tortola Pier Park is said to be the destination of choice this weekend for shopping, dining, and to enjoy the soulful sounds of local and international musicians live in concert,” the promoters further said.

“Artistes to perform throughout the five days of activities are Glenroy Charles, Pan Vibes, Musa and the Mellow Tones, Drexel Glasgow, Final Faze, Calden James, Jeremy Vanterpool, Dean Frazer featuring Alaine and Karen Smith, A-Team Band featuring Olatunji and Farmer Nappy, HLSCC Jazz Ensemble, HLSCC Stingray Singers, Dalan Vanterpool, Kamau Georges and 2nd Degree, Etienne Charles and Creole Soul, and Morgan Heritage.”

International Artistes

DEAN FRASER, who was born in Jamaica, has some 45 years of experience as one of the most sought-after saxophonists in the Caribbean.

He had worked with the likes of Reggae legend Bob Marley, and will perform at the Tortola Pier Park on Friday night, May 26.

“Without any hesitation, it is safe to say that Dean Fraser will be bringing with him a breath of fresh musical air to Tortola,” said the festival promoters.

ALAINE was born in New Jersey and raised in Jamaica. Her many songs include No Ordinary love, and Rise in Love.

She will perform alongside Dean Fraser on Friday night, May 26. “Her soul-penetrating vocals are certain to capture the attention of music lovers worldwide and would do the same to patrons at Jazz and Style Festival,” the promoters of the festival said.

ETIENNE CHARLES, who was born in Trinidad and Tobago, is a trumpeter extraordinaire.

He will perform at Tortola Pier Park on Saturday, May 27. “Lovers can anticipate only the best for the ace Jazz trumpeter,” said the organizers of the festival.

MORGAN HERITAGE is a Reggae band formed in 1994 by the five children of Reggae artiste Denroy Morgan.

The group’s many hits include Don’t Haffi Dread, Down By The River, Reggae Bring Back Love, and She’s Still Loving Me.

Meanwhile, the promoters of the festival have expressed gratitude to the many sponsors of the event. “This event would not be possible without the support and partnership of the sponsors Caribbean Cellars via Veuve Clicquot, Harneys, Meridian Construction, Anegada Beach Club, Diamonds International, BVI Ports Authority, KT Production, BVI Tourist Board, Superior Property Services Ltd., Clarence Thomas, JTV, Digital Virgin Studios, Aaron Rentals, CCT, Envy Salon, Spa & Barbar Shop, Passions by Umi, Myetts Chill Zone, FLR Enterprises, STO Enterprises, Connect Enterprises, Innovative Dezigns and Solutions, House of Luxury, Nagico Insurance, S & D Security, P3 and Kenny Tees.”