Bronx, U.S.A: There is no better way for Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica in New York to celebrate Jamaica’s 50th year of independence, than to reconnect with the greatness and world renowned culture of our island with Oliver Samuels and friends.
On Saturday, August 4, 2012, to celebrate Jamaica’s 50th Independence at what is already considered the largest event to date in the Bronx area recognizing a special day for the Jamaican community. The celebration starts at 11am and will continue all day until 7pm.
The venue for this event is already famously known for being the grounds of the annual Puerto Rican Day parade. For the first time Roberto Clemente State Park, will host an occasion celebrated by the people of Jamaica. Located alongside the Harlem River at 301 West Tremont Avenue, Bronx, New York, the cool summer breeze from the river is the perfect venue to escape the hot summer days of August.
The host for this event will be Jamaica’s King and Queen of comedy, Oliver Samuels, and Andrea “DELCITA” Wright. Oliver, often recognized as Jamaica’s funniest man, will be joined by Andrea, who has developed quite a reputation as an actress and performs extensively throughout the USA, Canada and the Caribbean. This will be the first time this talented duo will be sharing the same stage.
Speakers and performers will include, OLIVER SAMUELS, Trench Town Ska era group-The WAILING SOULS and the MELODIANS, legendary crooner-DOBBY DOBSON, 3x Olympian-DEVON HARRIS, former USA professional basketball player and current assistant coach of Jamaica’s women basketball team SIMONE EDWARDS, recording Executive to the stars-ANDREA ANMOUR, the GEORGE WESLEY Band, the winner of California’s Best Male Vocalist competition-FARAJI BRYAN, The performer with the most nominations (6) at the Annual Washington DC Reggae Music Awards-RUTH ANN-BROWN, HUMBLETON, Gospel Group The VOICE, singer LEIGHTON MILLER, HUMBLETON and many more. Be prepared to hear great renditions of the national anthem, pledge and other national songs and heritage songs.
With successful performances at The Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, City Hall, Bronx Borough Hall, The World famous Braata Folk Singers will be showcasing Jamaican folk music and songs. The group utilizes music, dance and drama to deliver a combination of high-energy performances, folk ballads and traditional Jamaican folk songs. If you loved the performance of Ms. Lou then you are in for a special treat from Braata Folk Singers.
Award recipients will include Olympian Merlene Ottey – presented with Lifetime Achievement Award and honored as Jamaica’s best athlete in 50 years, former City Council member Una Clarke – recognized for her years of outstanding service to the Caribbean community (Award presented by Mt. Vernon City Council President Yuhanna Edwards), Oliver Samuels – recognized for his theater contributions, The Wailing Souls and 3x Olympian Devon Harris.
If you are a fan of Dennis Brown and Bob Marley you will certainly enjoy a special tribute and performance that will honor their legacy.
Come out with your family and enjoy, cultural workshops, speakers and performers from Jamaica, great foods, music, entertainment, craft vendors showcasing Jamaican merchandise, loodie and domino contest, traditional Jamaican foods and more, all re-connecting us with Jamaican culture and history.
The Jamaican Community in New York will all be at this memorable event to celebrate the island’s 50th Independence. To attend tickets must be purchased in advance. No tickets will be sold at the door and no tickets will be available once sold out. For more information on tickets call 914-384-9554, or visit our website Jamaica50Anniversary.com
