Batabano 2023 launch event highlights Government’s support

Long-serving mas bands, sponsors, designers, and volunteers honoured

The heart of George Town came to life recently as the Batabano carnival season was officially launched for the 40th year in the Cayman Islands.

Minister for Tourism and Transport, the Hon. Kenneth Bryan, attended the event and congratulated the organization on its 40th anniversary. “As the Minister for Tourism and Entertainment I have already given my commitment that we will be a major sponsor again this year for Batabano, so I’m really looking forward to it,” he stated. “We went through a whole lot since the pandemic and we want to get our entertainment back to where it once was, lively and robust.” The Minister added that he is also looking forward to being in a Batabano shirt in the parade this year.

Acting Minister for Culture & Heritage, Mr. Isaac Rankine, was also in attendance at the carnival’s launch event, and stated: “It is important that we are able to support initiatives that highlight our customs.”

In her address, Batabano Chairperson Donna Myrie spoke about her first Batabano experiences as well as her first carnival experiences abroad when she attended Carnival in Trinidad in 1981 as Miss Cayman Islands, having been invited by the then Miss Trinidad and Tobago, Rachel Thomas. “I was so inspired by the camaraderie, joy, togetherness and economic opportunities that I witnessed at that carnival, and it shaped my vision and ultimately that of the Cayman Carnival Batabano Board, to include everyone residing in the Cayman Islands, all nationalities, in a series of events that provide a cultural celebration, and economic benefits, for our islands, now and for the future.”

Mrs. Myrie-Stephen said the theme therefore for this year’s Batabano parade is once again “All Nations, One Celebration”. As such, Caymanians and residents from all nations represented in the Cayman community are invited to rally together and register groups and organisations to be part of this 40th anniversary parade. The parade registration fee is being waived this year. 

In addition to masquerade bands and groups entering the parade, she said local businesses and organizations are invited to also enter a float in the parade this year under the theme “Las Tortugas” in honour of turtle nesting season starting in May annually.

As part of the celebration of 40 years of Batabano, at the launch event the carnival’s Board of Directors also recognized longstanding sponsors, mas bands, and supporters. Those included:

• Ms. Reba Dilbert for years of support and continuous participation in Cayman Carnival Batabano.

• The Cayman Islands Government  for its continued support and endorsement of Cayman Carnival Batabano

• Party Animals for being the longest local participating Mas Band that exemplifies the spirit of Batabano

• Michael Lemay for his contribution to steelpan in the Cayman Islands

• Jacques Scott for its long-standing sponsorship

• Sharmee McField  for the spirit of volunteerism

• Cayman Airways – Long-standing supporter

• Local Carnival for the newest emerging Mas Band for Cayman Carnival Batabano, with all costumes designed and made in Cayman.

Led by Master of Ceremonies, Sheena Hurlstone, the launch event’s entertainment included the group “Bollywood Dance Pulse” led by Haresh “Harry” Bhagwandas. Young dancers aged seven to fourteen lit up the red carpet with a lively dance that had the event attendees clapping along enthusiastically. Kiara Lemay, daughter of well-known local pannist Michael Lemay, treated the crowd to a rendition of many soca favourites. The entertainment continued with a samba performance from the dance duo of Yara Razo and Sergio Torres of  Mas Azucar Entertainment.

The event culminated with an exciting costume-reveal for this year’s Batabano parade. The exclusive 40th anniversary VIP costumes are designed by Horacio Prado and Daniel Caballero of Panama. With more than thirty five years in the design field, Prado and Cabellaro have created elaborate costumes for international events. There will be four costume sections for ladies and one costume section for men. For details and to register, contact Griscella Ebanks on griscella@hotmail.com.

The extended Batabano week begins with Jouvert April 29th and runs through May 7th with Steel Pan on Wednesday May 3rd, Kings and Queens costume Soiree on Thursday May 4th, Friday Night Fete on May 5th, and the 40th anniversary Grand Costume Parade on Saturday May 6th.

Persons interested in entering a masquerade band or float in Batabano’s 40th anniversary parade this year on May 6th, should email batabanocaymancarnival@gmail.com  or call Mrs. Myrie on 916-1740. Learn more about Cayman Carnival Batabano at www.caymancarnival.com