Every year I say I’m not playing carnival…and every year I succumb to the beguiling pull of bacchanal. Whether I’m in St.Vincent or Toronto, carnival is an intrinsic part of my summer and more importantly an integral part of who I am.
This year I played once again with Saldenah in Dr. Jay’s section ” Zuri” which is the Swahili word for Beautiful. I loved the combination of colours and was thrilled to find out that the bikini bottom had full coverage this year. Coz sometimes it really doesn’t cover much and as I get older every piece of fabric counts!
As always with Dr. Jay & his sister Myana the pick up process was a breeze. Everything that was supposed to be in the box, was in the box. The ladies distributing the costumes were friendly and knew what they were talking about. I even got a cap!
From the moment “ah touch dung” on the exhibition grounds that rush of euphoria came over me. Watching all the masqueraders proudly fluttering past me with feathers bouncing and beads jangling. Marshalls in band t-shirts rushing around putting last minute touches on the larger wheeled costumes. A symphony of soca songs booming from various music trucks melding in chaotic perfection. It was exactly where I was meant to be.
Once we got going on the Lakeshore everything just fell in to place. The company (shout out to Lissa Monet), the weather, our order in the parade. Carnival always has a way of enhancing my sense of self , while at the same time, gifting me with an overwhelming feeling of belonging and unity. This year I felt that more so than others…and I loved it!
Here are some shots from Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2016. As well as the Saldenah boat cruise to follow on Sunday. Maybe you can play with me next year.
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