Posts tagged trinidad and tobgo

Visiting Trinidad Theatre Workshop always brings back the memories of dramatic training and the lifelong bonds I made with so many youths that have the same passion and drive for the arts. There are many programmes at the theatre, one of which includes Teen Theatre Studio, of which I am a graduate of. I just came back from reviewing their show and I must admit that it was quite an exceptional performance. 

Everyone goes crazy over conventional theatre, wanting to get a quick laugh out of the likes of Raymond Choo Kong and others, however I wonder if there would ever be an appreciation for plays with intuitive plots and well developed characterization. These teens have shown a profound interest in Caribbean literature. The cast of the Teen Theatre Studio performed “The Ritual” written by Zeno Obi Constance, a Trinidadian playwright. The play focuses on a 16 year old child, by the name of Omega. It relates the problems she is faced with, in different social situations of her life.

The play itself presents a bit of comedy, drama and indeed some very intense scenes. Most importantly it presents some real life issues that is still commonly dealt with today. How do teenage mothers handle such a situation? What if you really were in their shoes? Would you be able to handle a baby at age 16? If you would like to know the answer to these questions, “The Ritual” is the kind of play that will help you answer them.

This is what I mean by exceptional theatre. I am tired of the scandals, the lies, the sex and the adultery. Its all repetive on the biggest theatrical stages across the country. You want something of depth? Something that really reflects our literary standards on a performing stage; you should make sure to check out, not only Trinidad Theatre Workshop, but also places like the Department of Creative and Festival Arts at UWI, or even the University of Trinidad and Tobago, that commonly host theatrical shows all year around. These shows have depth, insight and meaning into our Caribbean identity and literary styles. One cannot find that on the big stages.

Our eyes seriously need to be opened up. The works of Derek Walcott has somewhat been forgotten. Doesn’t anyone remember the production Steel in 2005 at Queens Hall, with the famous Albert Laveau and Humanitarian Corrine Grey. Two individuals that I look up at so greatly at today. These are the kinds or role models I wish the youth of Trinidad and Toabgo had, Not Hannah Montana and Justin Beiber. 

There is good theatre out there. It may be hard to find, but you just have to look…..

Always looking at life,

Shahad the Sentinel

Apart from the boring Saturday that I had, the rest of my weekend was quite eventful. I spent it with some of my most trustworthiest friends, and there is nothing more that I can ask for than just to kick back, relax and bask in their friendly ambiance.

I have to admit that I was a bit intimidated when jeroberos asked me to be a judge for his modeling competition. I was not too sure if I had the capacity to be a judge on such a platform, however I would admit that I had sufficient experience when it came to being critical. I was given a criteria and jeroberos described what he was expecting. I was amazed that our final marks came relatively close to each other, so I knew that I was judging each model fairly. 

It was not an easy task. Each model brought something different and innovate to the forefront of their own individual technique. However, with a strict criteria it assisted us in determining who should win this competition. I admired jeroberos greatly that day, cause it was evident that he had brought professionalism to the forefront of his competition. I was thrilled to be apart of this experience. 

Nothing made me more happy than to be working alongside some very artistic individuals. I honestly did not regret my Sunday. We decided for Hangover 2 at the movies later that evening, but with a weak plot and heavy comedy, the movie only has value with respect to a quick laugh.

The highlight of my Sunday was heading over to Guru’s fathers day lime with her family. The couple hours that we spent there, made me so nostalgic about how my family use to be many moons ago. With her uncles being slightly intoxicated, a table of great food, and the sounds of cultural music… I can only wish that my family could have that closeness once more.

Everyone were on their feet, dancing and enjoying themselves and to be honest, I was itching to get on the dance floor. After wuking so hard that day, I was more than happy to put down a different kinda wuk :) The encouragement from her relatives came only a few moments later. It did not take too long before I was on the dance floor pelting waist to the sound of river lime chutney music. I felt so comfortable, that I could hardly believe that my gyrations extended over two sessions of tassa music. It simply was a father’s day that I would not forget.

Some say its uncommon to find friends that treat you like family. Well I can surely say, that when it comes to my friends, there is nothing common about them :)

Always looking at life,

Shahad the Sentinel