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Veteran Children’s Theatre Company Makes History As One Of Trinidad And Tobago’s Oldest Children’s Performing Arts Organisations Backstage during the 1985 staging of the original Lilliput production, Marriage of the Samaan. Photo courtesy Martica Thomas Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago … Four decades ago, two friends and colleagues, Noble Douglas and Tony Hall , embarked upon the groundbreaking task of creating Trinidad and Tobago's first children’s theatre company. Their foresight led to the establishment of the Lilliput Children’s Theatre, Trinidad and Tobago’s seminal children’s arts institution. This year, Lilliput marks that milestone with its 40th anniversary production, BIG, on May 15, 16 and 17, 2015 at Queen’s Hall. With its signature approach to drama instruction, the company harnesses the performing arts as a medium to help shape and build character while encouraging self-confidence through the challenge of theatre, game play and imagination. “We strive to do this one child at a time,” reflected Douglas. “We have succeeded in using culture to build the character of every Lilliputian. No matter their discipline or profession, Lilliputians are excelling in their fields today.” An animated moment during Lilliput’s 2013 original production, EIEIO Animal Farm, which was an adaptation of George Orwell’s, Animal Farm. Photo courtesy Mark Gellineau. The veteran company is known for staging thought provoking productions that challenge audiences to countenance alternative political, social and cultural views. Annually, the young thespians are charged with creating and scripting a play from the creative concepts of costume designer, Merylle Mahabir. In this process, journal writing is used to explore intricate ideas as an integral part of their writing process. Under the direction of Hall, Greer Jones-Woodham, Che Rodriguez, John Isaacs and Wendell Manwarren, Lilliput’s past productions have included published plays such as Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Derek Walcott’s Ti Jean and His Brothers as well as original productions including the inaugural, Cinderella Strikes Again, Flew and EIEIO Animal Farm. To date, Eye Eye Eye, which chronicled the plight of street children, remains one of Lilliput’s most critically acclaimed and insightful presentations. This year’s celebratory production will again challenge audiences as the company looks at the impact of BIG issues on the lives of little people. For more information, join the BIG Facebook (FB) event page at http://x2t.com/3/BIG or connect with Lilliput on FB at www.facebook.com/lilliputchildrenstheatre or on Twitter @NDLFA or email liza@estuaryPR.com. A young masquerader in the section MARRY ME from Lilliput Children’s Theatre’s 2015 Kiddies Carnival presentation, BIG, designed by Merylle Mahabir. Photo courtesy Roba Ofili. WHAT: Lilliput Children’s Theatre’s 40th Anniversary Production, BIG WHO: Lilliput Children’s Theatre WHEN: Friday May 15, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday May 16, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. Sunday May 17, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. WHERE: Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s, Port of Spain TICKETS: Children and adults - $120.00 Crosby’s Music Centre, St. James – (868) 622-SOCA(7622) Students of Lilliput Children’s Theatre From Monday May 11, 2015 - Queen’s Hall box office – (868) 624-1284

Jamaican born novelist Marlon James critically acclaimed novel, “A Brief History of Seven Killings,” may soon be coming to the small screen. HBO has bought the screen rights to the book that was inspired by the 1976 assassination attempt on the life of reggae icon Bob Marley. The novel also touches on the violence and unrest that ruled the Jamaica for decades. This is the third novel for James , an English professor at Macalester College. His debut was “John Crow’s Devil,” about a Biblical spiritual battle in 1957 Jamaica. His sophomore effort, “The Book of Night Women,” was a slavery-era work often likened to Toni Morrison with splashes of magical realism. “Night Women” was optioned by Samuel Jackson’s production company, an option that was recently renewed. James will be doing his own adaptation, with the help of screenwriter Eric Roth, who won an Academy Award for “Forrest Gump.” Recently James won this year’s Anisfield-Wolf fiction prize, which is given to books that deal with issues of race and diversity. James is currently working on a fantasy novel based on African myths and legends. He describes it as “a Yoruba Game of Thrones.

Kola Restaurant & Ultra Lounge , Metro Detroit’s premier cultural destination, home to the best of #Afrobeat & #Reggae music, hosts Reggae sensation, ETANA on Friday, May 22, 2015. This special edition of “ Tropical Fridays ” will feature Reggae music’s spirited and soulful singer/songwriter on the US tour of her chart topping album “I RISE”. ETANA’s latest album, I Rise recently won World A Reggae’s Album of the Year 2014, and features the hit single Richest Girl. The concert will be hosted by VDJ Wada and opens at 8PM with a performance by Metro Detroit’s own “Uprizin Steel Drum Band”. Since she first came on the scene in 2007 with her debut single, “Wrong Address,” Etana has been one of reggae’s strongest female voices. It’s easy to see that a lot of care went into the making of this latest offering. There’s hardly a wasted moment to be found on I Rise. Etana has a way of capturing lightening in a bottle while shaking off all pretenses. The instrumentation of strings, percussion, and synth cords works throughout the record as a great complement to Etana’s soul-drenched vocals. Kola Lounge owner/restauranteur, says we continue to work very hard to establish Kola as a cultural and culinary destination. “Etanas’ management’s selection of Kola as a venue solidifies what we’ve worked so hard to accomplish,” says Dr. Ekpenyong. Kola’s delectable fare has gone over big with patrons while its elegant selection of wine and spirits satisfy more delicate palates. Domestic and imported beers are also available to go with the lively gnash and entertainment. It’s a big-hearted restaurant that serves food as good as the live entertainment. Tickets can be purchased at Kola Restaurant & Ultra Lounge at 32523 Northwestern Highway in Farmington Hills or online by logging onto http://etanakolalounge.eventbrite.com. By AJ Williams, Michigan Chronicle Web Editor

Caribbean Style Week will feature Caribbean Fashion, Designers, Models and Stylist during Caribbean American Heritage Month 2015. The event will be hosted by Miss Universe Jamaica, Kaci Fennell and runs from June 25-28. With Caribbean fashion on the rise, a stage to showcase the regions talent is necessary, and what better a location than sunny South Florida. On Thursday June 25th, CSW will kick off with a VIP Welcome Reception, featuring the who’s who of Caribbean Fashion in attendance. The week will feature panels, workshops, runway shows and special events, all fashion driven. CSW closes on Sunday June 28th with a sexy swimwear fashion show titled, Brunch & Bikinis. The invitation only event will feature both popular swimwear designers as well as the current hot topic in Caribbean fashion, “Monday Wear”. CSW 2015 is made possible with the support of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. For more information the week’s event, please visit www.caribstyleweek.com

In his earlier days, he was called Rabbie Ocean with one of his most popular tune, “ Carry On .” These days, he goes by the name Phil Nessy and is a St. Lucian musician based in the USA steadily rising on the music scene. Nessy recently released a music video for the tune; “ My Life” which coincides with a “ Love Your Life ” campaign which he is currently undertaking. The Hospital Road, Castries born musician describes himself as a simple individual who enjoys singing, football and swimming. Nessy proudly describes his musical influences as the best in the business. Just listening to his music for the first time, one can easily associate his vocal ability and writing talents with that of his musical influences: Peter Tosh, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye and Barry White. Some of his fans also link his melodious tone to Dennis Brown, Bankie Banx, Tarrus Riley, Peter Tosh and Beresford Hammond. Wherever and whenever Nessy performs, he is sure to have the crowd dancing and singing along to his positive and inspirational vibes. To date, Nessy has released three albums - Forward, Playing and Unchained . He is already working on his fourth album which is due to be released this summer. See link for “My Life” video. www.philnessy.com

Girls 'N Cocktails, a talkshow for the ambitious Caribbean woman, will premiere on Tempo networks on the 29th of april @ 7pm Eastern time! Watch the trailer here : The show The show is hosted by three women, and is recorded in a high-end cocktail bar. Along with the audience the ladies discuss relevant actualities such as, Beauty and Double standards when it comes to Black and White women in media/entertainment, or debate on why Black people are Christians, when history clearly shows that this religion was forced upon us during slavery. A positive representation of Caribbean women in international media The show is about Caribbean women speaking their mind and debating with each other in a respectful and smart manner. As the executive producer of the show, I really feel that we are underrepresented in international television and media platforms when it comes to our intelligence, ambitions and well-formed opinions. With Girls 'N Cocktails, I aim to fill that gap. A European production The recordings of Girls 'N Cocktails take place in the Netherlands and the majority of the audience in the show exists of Afro-Europeans hailing from the Caribbean and Africa, but our target is the Caribbean woman globally. Where to watch? Our broadcaster is Tempo Networks.

Women really hate their stretch marks and they look for all sorts of ways to get rid of them. Stretch marks appear from rapid stretching of your skin. They are a form of scaring of the skin and it can be really difficult to get rid of them. They mainly appear on the stomach, thighs, knees and breasts. There are so many expensive products on the market that guarantee they’ll help you get rid of your stretch marks but don’t get fooled and don’t waste your money. Here are the best natural products for treating stretch marks: Naturals Oils for Stretch Marks 1. Olive and Coconut Oil The best way to treat your stretch marks is to use olive and coconut oil. They’ll keep your skin hydrated and tight and they’ll make your stretch marks less visible. 2. Rosemary Oil Rosemary oil is also great for stretch marks. Put some oil on your stretch marks and massage for 15 minutes. Rosemary oil will tone your skin and will give her a nice glow. 3. Almond Oil Apply some almond oil on your stretch marks and massage the areas. Almond oil is great for every skin type. It contains vitamin B, A and E that will keep your skin hydrated and healthy. 4. Wheat Oil Wheat oil is rich in vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant. Mix this oil with some rose petals oil and apply this oil mixture on your stretch marks. They’ll help you reduce redness and skin irritation and will keep your skin healthy. Source: womendailymagazine.com

CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution (CTWD) has recently amped up its efforts to boost the global Caribbean film industry via new acquisitions to its growing film roster. The initiative is an integral part of CTWD’s ‘3D Distribution Project’, financed by the EU’s ACPCultures+ Program. The new acquisitions include feature length films, documentaries, short-films, and episodic TV series, such as the hit Barbadian series ‘ Keeping up with the Joneses ’ (2014), created and directed by Rommel Hall and Shane Holford, tells the story of the Jones family that reluctantly becomes the subject of a reality TV show. Over 15 episodes, the audience follows the Joneses through entertaining, awkward, and embarrassing moments. CTWD has acquired the rights to all three seasons of the series, the spin off feature film, ‘Keeping up with the Joneses - The Movie’, and the 2014 Christmas special. The cast of Barbadian reality series ‘Keeping up with the Joneses’. Three powerful films from US-based award winning documentarian, Andrea Leland, have also been added to the roster: CTFF 2014 Best Documentary Winner, ‘Yurumein - Homeland, The Caribs of St. Vincent’ (2014), which recounts the painful past of the Caribs of St. Vincent, their history, trials and tribulations and the movement to revitalize the remnants of their culture known as Garifuna; Leland’s 70-minute documentary, ‘Jamesie – King of Scratch’; and her 46-minute film, ‘The Garifuna Journey’. Photo from 'Yurumein - Homeland, The Caribs of St. Vincent’ Other highlights are new work by iconic, pioneering Trinidad & Tobago filmmaker, Christopher Laird, including: award-winning ‘No Bois Man No Fraid’(2013), which documents a journey of two young T&T martial arts experts as they set out to learn the local art of stick fighting; the feature documentary ‘Public Spaces’, an exploration of the work of Laird’s father, the architect Colin Laird; and the short documentary ‘Hinkson’, about the artist Jackie Hinkson. A fighting scene from 'No Bois Man No Fraid’ by noted Trinidadian director Christopher Laird Also joining the CTWD family are feature films: ‘The Gift Everlasting’ by Judith Faloon-Reid (Jamaica, 2014), ‘Thick’ by Cheryl Brown and Anthony Greene from Skyrocket Productions (USA, 2012), ‘Fire Burn Babylon’ by Sarita Seigal (UK, 2011). New shorts include: ‘After Mas’ by Karen Martinez (UK/T&T, 2013), ‘Punta Soul’ by Nyasha Laing (Belize, 2008). Original series include: ‘A Day in a Bajan Life’ (Barbados, 2012), ‘Illegal Aliens’ (USD/Jamaica, 2013),‘Life with the Ramsinghs' (T&T, 2013). CTWD’s extensive marketing and outreach strategy to maximize revenue for filmmakers will include attendance at markets across North America, Europe, and Africa, such as the American Film Market (AFM) and the Marché Internationale de Programmes Communications (MIPCOM) in Cannes, France.

AMSTERDAM – On May 10th, 2015, reggae legend Bob Marley passed away exactly 34 years ago. Marley was responsible for the spread of Reggae and Rasta worldwide and still appeals to the imagination of millions of people. On Saturday May 9th, Caribbean Creativity, in collaboration with Each One Teach One, therefore organizes a tribute to Marley in film theatre Kriterion with a full night of film, music and food in Jamaican Roots/Reggae/Rasta style. The evening starts at 21:30 hrs in the bar area of Kriterion with a Nyabinghi, a traditional drum session that performed as a communal meditation in the Rastafari movement. These sessions have evolved from the drum ceremonies that enslaved Africans brought with them to Jamaica during colonial rule. Then, at 22:00 hrs, the film Akwantu: The Journey will be screened. This unique documentary by Jamaican-American filmmaker Roy T. Anderson, documents the struggle for freedom of the legendary Maroons of Jamaica, former enslaved Africans, who were able to flee the plantations and slave ships to form communities in some of the most inhospitable regions of the island. Poorly armed and outgunned, these brave warriors engaged the mighty British Empire over an 80-year period and were victorious. As a result, two peace treaties were signed between the British and the Maroons in 1738-39 that established Maroon self-government in Jamaica. Nowhere else in the New World had Africans enjoyed such a degree of autonomy, coming almost sixty years before the Haitian Revolution, and more than one hundred years before the Emancipation Proclamation that ended slavery in the United States. After the film screening the night will continue in the bar area of Kriterion with a reggae afterparty. First, Young Flame will do a rootsy dancehall performance, after which Rasta Int. Sound will complete the night with the best reggae tunes. Of course, Jamaican snacks (strictly ital. vital by Chef Journy!) and drinks (Red Stripe!) will be available all night long. A film ticket costs €9,50 and could be secured by calling Kriterion (020 623 1708). The afterparty is free. This event is part of Rootical Vibrations, an initiative of Caribbean Creativity and Each One Teach One. Caribbean Creativity is a foundation committed to the promotion of Caribbean and Caribbean-themed cinema. Each One Teach One is a Dutch Rastafari consciousness groups. This tribute to Bob Marley marks the 11th edition of Rootical Vibrations, which is held every four months in either Kriterion or De Balie in Amsterdam

New York City/Jamaica – April 21st, 2015 – The Royal Family of Reggae, Morgan Heritage , have released their newest album, Strictly Roots , today. The album, which has been available for pre-order since March 10th, 2015, has reached #2 on the iTunes Reggae Chart, and the first single, “Perform And Done” has received substantial rotation on commercial radio. The album is available in retail stores nationwide including Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Barnes and Noble. Purchase Strictly Roots on iTunes : or on Amazon. The sensational roots reggae quintet, which comprises siblings Peetah Morgan (vocals), Una Morgan (keyboard/vocals), Gramps Morgan (keyboard/vocals), Lukes Morgan (rhythm guitar) and Mr. Mojo Morgan (percussion/vocals), is undoubtedly one of contemporary reggae’s most powerful forces on the global stage. Guided by sheer acumen and a passionate desire to make their already rich musical legacy even more impactful, Morgan Heritage, after much deliberation and contemplation, triumphantly delivers their latest album exclusively on their very own label CTBC (Cool To Be Conscious) Music Group. Strictly Roots features a wide variety of guest performers including platinum selling pop/dancehall phenomenon, Shaggy; American reggae and R&B vocalist, J Boog; third generation ambassadors from the Morgan and Marley families, Jemere Morgan and Jo Mersa Marley; reggae sensation, Chronixx; lead singer Eric Rachmany from rock, world and reggae band, Rebelution; and Bobby Lee from the American Grammy-nominated pop reggae band, SOJA. Morgan Heritage recently premiered "Wanna Be Loved” (ft. Eric Rachmany of Rebelution) with ThePier.org. On working with Morgan Heritage, Eric Rachmany of Rebelution told ThePier.org, “It’s an honor to collaborate with Morgan Heritage. In my eyes they are one of the best Reggae bands of all time. Their style is like no other out there and their story is remarkable. They sent me ‘Wanna Be Loved’ and I immediately connected with the concept that each and every one simply wants to be loved for who they are.” In addition, Morgan Heritage previously partnered with Billboard.com to premiere the video for their first single, “Perform And Done,” as well as working with Yahoo! Music to premiere “So Amazing,” the second single off the album. Regarding the album, Una Morgan states, "We are thankful that the first album we've released as an independent label has been received so well. We hope our independent efforts will be an additional example for others to continue follow." Morgan Heritage , which has established themselves as the premiere live group on the reggae circuit, is currently on tour in support of Strictly Roots. The tour also features third generation ambassador from the Morgan family, Jemere Morgan, as a special guest. In addition, Oxfam, an international confederation of 17 organizations working together with partners and local communities in more than 90 countries, will be on site for select shows on the Strictly Roots tour. Regarding the partnership, Oxfam’s Outreach Project Manager, Bob Ferguson, added, “Oxfam America is pleased to be joining forces with Morgan Heritage and their fans to help right the wrongs of poverty and injustice. Oxfam believes that music can change the world, and we are looking forward to working with The Royal Family of Reggae to help make some positive and real social change." For more information, please visit www.Oxfam.org. The band also recently announced the release of their official fan community app, powered by TopFan. Available on all Apple iOS and Android devices, Morgan Heritage’s official mobile community enables fans to listen to their music, watch music videos, read their latest news, enter contests, buy tickets to their upcoming tour, and much more. Download the app here. Throughout 2015, Morgan Heritage will be touring in support of Strictly Roots, which was released on April 21st, 2015. Purchase Strictly Roots on iTunes .

International Singjay Reggae Artiste, X-amount is popping with style & rhythm;unique blends of dancehall, lovers rock,and culture under the umbrella of one sound. Born Gus Knight,Ill hailing from New York,X-amount has achieved radio promotion on Jamaica's IRIE FM,ZIP 103, HITZ 92 FM along with a plethora of radio stations throughout the island. An introduction to Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Gregory Isaacs by his father at an early age paved the way for his musical career decision and set a solid foundation for him. He received his name " X-amount " through divine intervention, realizing that help from a higher power could enable him to do exceedingly and abundantly greater things beyond his wildest imagination. X-amount is known among his peers and family to sustain a diversity of talent, which ranges from song writing, music production, studio engineering & designing graphics. When asked about his musical career and development his response states: "Reggae music allows me to express myself in a creative way while connecting with my heritage and passion... it gives me a platform to bring a message that promotes social justice and change. I desri e to reach and connect to the hearts and souls of my listeners." The International artiste has been active in the music industry for over 8 years and has been performing locally throughout Jamaica and abroad. X-amount has taken his stance in reggae and dancehall after performing in Port Antonio, Jamaica with King Yellowman, and opened various stage shows for Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, Elephant man , and Baby Cham among others. X-amount strongly advocates for the improvement of social communities, especially those that are disadvantaged. He explani s that he is quite happy to do voluntary musical work and has no qualms doing them again while embracing opportunities that allow unique benefits for both his fans and career endeavors. With a diverse catalog of music, X-amount is certainly creating frenzy in Jamaica! In 2015, "Gorden of Roses," produced by Anthony Records from Spanish Town, Jamaica will be released and promoted in the heart of reggae music. He will be on the 4th Generation Riddim by BlackSpyda Productions with "I Love You". The riddim also features artistes such as: Capleton, Sizzla,Alkaline and more. Another single, "Shock Ml" on the Sweet Escape Riddim from Brixton Music Group,which includes dancehall artiste like Konshens. Although his name is commonly used in a phrase,he has made it clear to the world that there are no limitations or boundaries to his musical creative process. His delivery is strongly built and the message is clear. No matter how hard they try to set the limit- he is revered within the industry as the one and only...X-amount caah count! LISTEN HERE via SOUNDCLOUD

WHAT DO you get if you mix popular ITV 1 show Britain’s Got Talent with the country’s top unsigned reggae artists? Britain’s Got Reggae (BGR) offers a syncopated spin on the popular television franchise and aims to give unsigned UK reggae artists opportunities and exposure in a competitive field. This year’s event, the second in the series from City Link-Up Unsigned, will take place at the Hootananny in Brixton, south London, on Thursday, April 23, 2015. Brixton’s Hootananny has previously won awards for the Best Live Music Events venue and Best Live Music Pub and has also played host to many established reggae artists from home and abroad. BGR’s inaugural event took place in January and showcased artists from Leicester, Nottingham, Birmingham and London. It was originally planned as a one-off affair, but due to an outpouring of positive feedback, another celebration was organised almost instantly. “There are some fantastic artists and music being produced within the UK but limited platforms exist for those that are up and coming,” the show’s organisers said. “Mainstream radio stations are no longer playing reggae music, so they are not even getting heard by wider audiences. We feel as a team that we have created a platform with a few of the leading businesses within UK Reggae Music such as VP Records, Stingray Records & Natty B’s UK Official Reggae Charts, which will enable artists to get the positive exposure that is needed,” they added. CHARITY The events support raise awareness for the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) and makes every effort to encourage people of colour to join the register. Black donors are seriously unrepresented. “Our vision is for reggae music within the UK to be recognised and for artists to get the recognition they deserve.” The full schedule of dates for future events are as follows: Thursday, April 23, 2015 Thursday, July 9, 2015 Thursday, August 6, 2015 Thursday, September 3, 2015 Thursday, October 1, 2015 Thursday, November 5, 2015 Thursday, December 3, 2015 The City Link-Up Unsigned team are currently looking for sponsors for Britain's Got Reggae events. If you're interested, please email citylinkup@gmail.com or visit:www.citylinkup.co.uk FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION, CONTACT: Cyrlene Braithwaite (CEO City Link-Up Unsigned) EMAIL: citylinkup@gmail.com WEBSITE: www.citylinkup.co.uk