Basseterre, St. Kitts – Nevis
May 23, 2008 (SKNIS)
The Chagredandies Moko Jumbie group out of Sandy Point in St. Kitts raised the spirits of thousands of patrons participating in the 4th Annual Boardwalk Mas in St. Maarten last weekend.
The folk group, which was accompanied by Lorna “˜Ava’ Henry of the Department of Culture, joined with approximately 15 other groups from St. Maarten for a grand parade in Phillipsburgh that culminated with a spectacular show.
Ms. Henry told SKNIS that the Moko Jumbies were received very well by the huge crowd which reportedly looks forward to seeing the cultural group. St. Kitts and Nevis is the only country invited to share in the joy of the festivities. Ms. Henry told listeners to local stations PJD2 and Laser 101 there, that the bonds of friendship between the twin-island Federation and their country remains strong.
The Moko Jumbies have performed in three of the four festivals, while the Mansion Bull has appeared once. The primary purpose of participation is to share the culture of the Federation. The performances by the stilt walkers from St. Kitts and Nevis have inspired some young people in St. Maarten to follow suit as they have developed a similar troupe. Ms Henry said she was very proud of this and will continue to work with organizers to ensure the mutually beneficial visits continue.