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So we made our way to yet another 2k6 Carnival band launch. Somehow these events always seem to possess a special interest... probably as Carnival is just around de corner! It was Sunday the 27th of November and the showcasing of Island Events 2006 Carnival Presentation "Mardi Gras" was taking place at "O".

Trini Jungle Juice arrived on the scene around 8:30 PM and found plenty good parking available. At the door, transvestites (yes, you read correctly) warmly greeted patrons. Then as we proceeded to walk inside, the concept of Island Events totally played in our minds. With the yellow and blue Carib bar on your right, another beach bar to your left, and oh yeah let's not forget some sand between your toes... you really couldn't deny the island flair. Inside was a bit empty in de earlies but the crowd slowly built up as the night went by. DJ Jus Jase tried to add some hype to the crowd with some musical styles but somehow the crowd never got into much frenzy. We guess that "O" was the kinda place where people went in order to have a few drinks and socialize... not too much dancing on this beach sand!

There was easy access for getting a drink and oh we have to mention the restrooms. Super clean portable potties, water, soap, even paper towels and no lines. Wow, every girl's dream come true!! The ambiance seemed well planned out and executed. At about 9:30 PM the Mas Presentation began. The crowd gathered around the stage with media and press dominating the front center rows. A musical theme began playing, some smoke dispersed on stage, and then emerging in a drama like skit were some dancers. As the skit progressed, it was kinda confusing because of all the men in tights... we really couldn't tell what was a costume and what wasn't. Also, the supporting cast seemed to outnumbered the members in costume, some of which were men dressed as women, even more confusing! Some patrons didn't find this cross dressing occurrence too appealing. When Island Events says, "Our lifestyle is an mélange, full of variety and spice; a celebration and appreciation of our differences and indigenous ways of doing things", they are not joking.

The models were sexy and they displayed the eye catching, colorful and vibrant costumes gracefully. The girls gracefully posed and moved across the stage as cameras were flashing everywhere. It was an interesting, creative and artistic show but we believe that there were just too many male dancers around the models, which distracted from the main showing of the costumes.

All and in all, the show surely was entertaining and caught everyone's attention. The crowd seemed to truly liven up during the presentation, with a constant screaming of “Super Model” by some male on lookers as they took in the show. Afterwards, the liming and drinking continued. De ole talk and gossip was strong in the air, and no doubt the main topic fresh on everyone’s mind was the controversial presentation. Island Events surely gave people something to talk about. “O” well, it definitely was a night to remember and TJJ looks forward to seeing Island Events on de road at Carnival 2K6. For more information, visit www.islandevents.com/mardigras. TJJ signing out from another band launch.