GCA Newsletter

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc.Newsletter Aug 20, 2011 Volume 2 Issue 6

Letter from the Editor NY PREMIERE OF FILMS PRODUCED BY GUYANESE FILM MAKERS The Guyana Cultural Association of New York is proud to welcome Dr. Paloma Mohamed, Director of the Center of Commu- nications Studies, in the University of Guyana, and a team of filmmakers. Our board members would like to congratu- late CineGuyana as they premier eight inspiring and thought-provoking narrative films, in collab- oration with GCA’s 10th Folk Festival Anniver- sary celebrations. Films such as, Luck Beat Handsome, Three Cards, and The Back Yard, are just three of a category of short-length documentaries and Videos GCA Summer Heritage Campers singing “Small Days” at Camp Finale. that will showcase the talents of students in the Viewing the art from the Guyana Diaspora at the Art Exhibition. mass-communications program at the Universi- ty of Guyana. We salute these students, and wish them every success in their careers. As our celebrations kicks into high gear, we would like to thank you our patrons for supporting us over the past ten years. And to you our new friends, thanks for joining our Face Book group. We feel honored that you have made the same commitment to keep our cultural and heritage alive in North America. It is hard to believe that this is the sixth issue of our Newsletter. We are delighted that you have taken the time to give us such positive feed- back. We will continue to inspire you, and capti- vate you with our articles and images of our diverse cultural heritage. Don’t forget, take along a Palm Card, and join us for the rest of our rousing events in Brooklyn. Log on to www.guyfolkfest.org for more information and updates. Thank you.

Tangerine Clarke

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter “Aal bady, Waan Bady” The Yard in December.” SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2011 Cynthia Nelson: “Blogging and 2 SUNY/EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE gaffing: Guyanese food, Guyanese identity formation & 177 LIVINGSTON STREET, BROOKLYN, NY 11201 digital media.” 6TH FLOOR 9.00 A.M. - 4.00 P.M. Gillian Richards-Greaves: “Negotiating African Guyanese ethnic identities through Kweh Kweh ritual dance.” 2011 GCA Desmond Roberts: Transna- tionalism and retention: The Indo-Guyanese community in New York City. SYMPOSIUM Rohan Sagar: “A visit to my neighbors—4000 years later.” Romesh Singh: “Division of “ARRIVALS, ENCOUNTERS, labor among Guyanese and Trinidadian Obeah practitioners: A social perspective.” AND EXCHANGE Rampersaud Tiwari: “My The theme for the 10th anniversary of the elders & the Non Pariel Uprising of 13 October Guyana Cultural Association of New York and the 1896.” Guyana Folk Festival is “Aal bady, Waan bady.” The PERFORMANCES goal is to explore the on-going process of (aal Performances are expected from: bady) becoming (waan bady)—Guyanese. Ken Corsbie-- on being a Guyanese in a new The symposium, scheduled for Saturday, Sep- land. tember 3, 2011 at SUNY/Empire State College, 177 Livingston Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 con- Terry Gajraj-- on Indian Guyanese folk music tributes to that goal by examining contemporary The Mighty Rebel-- on political calypsos-1982- ideas about the cultural similarities, common 2006. experiences, and traditions of solidarity and VIDEO FESTIVAL friendship that have developed in Guyana over Among the productions to be presented are: the past 350 years. The theme for the 2011 sym- Errol Brewster’s: Flambeau. posium is “Arrivals, Encounters, and Exchange.” Kean Gibson: Cumfa: A month for the The 2011 symposium will feature paper pre- entertainment of spirits sentations, panel discussions, performances, and a parallel video festival. Among the participants Kean Gibson: Kwe Kwe: African Guyanese are: dance traditions Ingrid Griffith: Rough cut of new film-- A Potter-Griffith Family Reunion. PAPER PRESENTATIONS: North West Organics: Cassava—Our Cul- Dr. Frank Birbalsingh: “Guyanese literature, Our Life. ture—Rooplall Monar.” Ray Seales: Afro-Guyanese Church ser- Dr. Vibert Cambridge: “Music and the early vice on East Bank Demerara. 20th century Guyanese diaspora in Harlem, NY.” John Criswick: “Cumfa.” Efforts will be made to use the Internet to Dr. Walter Edwards: “Linguistic and soci- facilitate participation by Guyanese at home and olinguistics characteristics of Guyanese chutney in the diaspora. lyrics.” Alan Fenty: “A Plate-a-Guyana Cook-up.” We look forward to seeing you at Carl Hazlewood: “A possible integrative the 10th Anniversary Symposium function of the visual arts of Guyana.” Saturday, September 3, 2011 9:00 a.m. Harry Hergash: “Indian-Guyanese words SUNY/Empire State College, and phrases—arrivals, adaptations, obsoles- 177 Livingston Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201. cence.” 6th Floor Dr. Paloma Mohamed: “The Creole (1842- 1907): Guyana’s 2nd Black newspaper.” Aal bady, Waan bady Henry Mootoo: “Transcending Actuality: Vibert Cambridge

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter FOLK FEST FAMILY DAY DANCE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2011 3 MEYER LEVIN SCHOOL GROUNDS 5908 BEVERLY RD., BROOKLYN, NY 11203 ENTRANCE ON RALPH AVE. (BET. BEVERLY & TILDEN) 11.00 A.M. - 8.00 P.M. CLASSIQUE DANCE COMPANY RETURNS TO FOLK FESTIVAL FAMILY DAY STAGE EXCIING NEW PIECES SHOWCASING VARIOUS ASPECTS OF GUYANA’S CULTURE & HERITAGE

uyana Folk Festival 2011 ALSO TO Gis proud to present the PERFORM return of Classique Dance AT Company of Guyana to the WEST stage at Family Fun Day on INDIAN DAY Sunday, September 4, 2011. CARNIVAL DIMANCHE GRAS SHOW

The performance FAREWELL will feature bodies swathed SHOW in radiant colors, against muted backgrounds with WEDNESDAY Clive Powell, choreograph- graceful lifts and SEPT 7, er and artistic director finger−snapping sass. hopes Classique’s perfor- ST. STEPHEN’S Their New York repertoire mances at this year’s Folk AUDITORIUM will include fast−paced, joy- Festival will bring artistic 2806 NEWKIRK ous pieces followed by the enjoyment and a cultural slow, measured steps of AVE & E28 ST. experience to softer performances. 7.00 P.M. dance lovers.

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter ART EXHIBITION CONTINUES 4 AUGUST 14 - SEPTEMBER 4, 2011 FiveMyles Gallery 558 St. Johns Place, Brooklyn, NY 11238 ART EXHIBITION Contemporary Expressions ART FROM THE GUYANA DIASPORA The show includes Frank Bowling, R.A., O.B.E., Stanley Greaves, Bernadette Persaud, Andrew Lyght, Philip Moore, Dudley Charles, Damali Abrams, Victor Davson, Arlington Weithers, Carl Anderson and Gregory A. Henry. Collectively, these artists are in Museum collections across the world, including the Metropolitan Museum, NY, the Tate Gallery, Lon- don, as well as the National Collection of Art in Guyana.

According to curator, Carl E. Hazle- wood, co-founder of Aljira Center For Contemporary Art. First pic: Makeda Levine with Frank Bowling painting. “Sponsoring an exhibit of sophisticated Second pic: Artist and photographer, Dianne Arndt with art such as this one is just one way The Carl Hazlewood Third pic: Art collector Valerie Coddett takes in the exhibition GCA of New York continues to share ( picture credit: Jamaal Levine) its major objective: to Preserve, Promote and Propagate Guyanese Creativity. Poetry, literature, and visual arts are portable means of taking essential cultural values along with us wherever we happen to go. The arts allow us to dream in metaphor; allow us to traverse the subtle and concrete territories of a shared history.” The exhibition runs through Septem- ber 3rd 2011.

Carl Hazlewood

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter TOUR OF HISTORIC BROWNSTONE & ART GALLERY

INTERESTED IN GUYANESE ART, Guyanese art are invited to INTERIOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE ? visit the home of 5 Timothy T. Griffith, Located on 111 Macdonough Street, in the YOU’RE INVITED TO TOUR Stuyvesant Heights Historic dis- THE HOME OF TIMOTHY GRIFFITH trict of Brooklyn. 111 MacDONOUGH STREET, STUYVESANT HEIGHTS HISTORIC BROOKLYN DISTRICT Mr. Griffith, who received a first in category, Landmark Commission of the year Award, for Brownstone Facade Restoration, has done a careful and detailed enhancement of his elegant home. He has filled it with a growing collection of excellent contemporary art, which features mainly artists of Guyanese heritage. These include major work in all media by artists such as the late Donald Locke, British based, Frank Picture credit Carl Hazlewood Bowling, R.A., O.B.E., The Guyana Cultural Association of New York presents a Arlington Weithers, Andrew Lyght, Dudley Charles, and special event in association with CONTEMPORARY others. This house tour is an excellent compliment to the EXPRESSIONS: ART FROM THE GUYANA DIASPORA, GCA exhibition currently on view at FiveMyles gallery. the ongoing exhibition of Guyanese art, currently on view at FiveMyles in Brooklyn. Mr. Griffith is concerned with the presentation and preservation of Guyanese art, along with the archives of material Timothy T. Griffith, the Guyana-born collector and facilitator related to it. As part of promoting Guyana art he has of the arts, is opening up his renovated 1872 Brownstone begun to place work in museum collections for exhibition to visitors. and study. A Donald Locke sculpture was recently donated to the Tubman African American Museum in Macon, Dates and Time: Georgia. The tour presents painting, sculpture, and ceram- Saturday August 20th, 2011 - 1.00 pm - 6.00 pm ics in an atmosphere of refinement and respect; it demon- Saturay, August 27, 2011 - 1.00 pm - 6.00 pm strates a model of commitment for those interested in studying, and supporting the art and artists from the Days between Aug 20 and August 27 Guyanese-American community. are by appointment only. Call 917-848-7735 now. Please call 917-848-7735 now, Those interested in interior design, architecture and if interested in taking the tour. DVD MASTER WORKS/ 6 RECENT WORKS DONALD LOCKE TALKS ABOUT HIS LARGE SCALE DRAWINGS AND MIXED MEDIA SCULPTURE In celebration of the Guyana Cultural Associ- ation of New York’s 10th Anniversary, we are offering a DVD featur- ing the late Guyanese artist, Donald Locke, who is being honored this year by the organization. All proceeds from sales will benefit the GCA.

Published and donated by collector, Timothy T. Griffith, the DVD package includes a booklet with a brief introduction and an illustrated cronology written by Carl E. Hazlewood. The $20. publication documents Locke’s art and life. Born in the village of Stewartville, Guyana, Donald AVAILABLE Locke first studied with E.R. Burrowes in FOR SALE AT Georgetown, Guyana, before attending graduate ALL 2011 school in the UK. From London, he moved to the US on a Guggenheim Fellowship and even- FOLK tually settled in Atlanta, Georgia. His work in FESTIVAL painting, sculpture, and mixed media ceramics is EVENTS in collectons around the world including the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Studio Muse- um in Harlem, and Guyana’s National Collec- TO ORDER: tion at Castellani House. 718 209 5207 The DVD is available at a suggested price of THE B G GROUP $20. All proceeds go to the Guyana Cultural ART TALK SERIES Association of New York. VOLUME 1 Carl Hazlewood STANDING OVATION FOR 7 GCA SUMMER HERITAGE CAMP STUDENTS AT FINAL PRESENTATION

PARENTS, FRIENDS LOUD IN PRAISE OF CAMP

COUNCILMEMBER MATHIEU EUGENE APPLAUDS GCA FOR COMMITMENT TO YOUTH AND THE COMMUNITY. PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR FUTURE CAMPS

THE PICTURES TELL THE STORY Top: Some of the Campers and Summer Camp volunteer staff pose with Councilmember Mathieu Eugene.

The “Baby Campers” go through their routine to the “Caribbean Basket Dance” choreographed by Verna Walcott-White

Ms Parris, volunteer camp teacher, with masks done by campers in the arts and craft workshop.

The CAribbean “Stick Dance” choreographed by Wayne Daniels

Arts & Crafts made by the campers

( picture credit:Tangerine Clarke) KWE KWE NITE 8 SEPTEMBER 2, 2011 - 8.00 P.M. ST. STEPHEN’S CHURCH AUDITORIUM 2806 NEWKIRK & E.28 STS. BKLYN, NY 11226 KEEPING UP THE TRADITION MENES DE GRIOT TALKS QUE QUEH... Tangerine Clarke

Menes De Griot demonstrating Kwe Kwe steps Menes, who the girl’s family pays the dowry. is a one of Menes explains that while the pot the pre-emi- cooks, the villagers as customary, would nent Kwe be dressed in African traditional wear Kwe pur- or anything that would reflect their veyors in the ancestry. Beginning at mid night the Diaspora, group would dance and sing as the said almost drums are played. During the ceremony every cul- the bridge would be hoisted in the air as ture around a significance to her being the founda- the world tion of the family and being respected celebrates a at all times. pre-mar- During the celebration, the night before CALLING ALL BRIDES & BRIDEGROOMS riage ceremo- the marriage ceremony, a white sheet ny, but he drapes the bride, symbolic of her virginity,. COME SHOW WE YUH SCIUNCE! traces the Kwe kwe , known to provoke stirring he spirited rhythms of the drums Guyanese tradition to the South Africa body movement to the rhythms of the and the merriment the night culture that begins with a libation cere- T drumbeats, said Menes “teaches before a Guyanese couple is wed, is a mony, where water is poured to the prospective brides how to please their years old tradition that has been a part ground to honor the Ancestors. The groom to bring forth children, which is of the African heritage for centuries. ceremony he said, depending on the the custom in the African tradition.” Kwe Kwe, one of the annual Folk Festi- extent of the festivities, Kwe Kew could According to him, “even though a mar- val events for the past six years, has last for one whole week. riage takes place, in some cultures it is grown in popularity to bring Guyanese The man’s family would sing and dance from around the globe in droves to be a not fully consummated until a child is as the make their way to the gate of produced.” part of a its demonstration. girl’s family with a bunch of flowers, Songs like “Come to my Kwe Kwe”, As the festival prepares to host another while waving palm tree leaves. They Show Me Ya Science”, and many others Kwe Kwe night, on Friday, September would also bring food items. For exam- evoke the steep tradition buried in the 3, at the St. Stephens Church Auditori- ple, a bag of rice, a goat, chicken, which Guyanese culture . um, Newkirk and East 28th Street would be cooked on a bon-fire in the location in Brooklyn, we invited Master yard of the groom’s family, where the Drummer, and the keeper of Guyanese tradition is, the groom’s family pays the Menes De Griot oan be contacted at 347-488- traditions, Menes DeGroit, to give us bride. Where as in the Indian tradition, 5010 for all Kwe Kwe ceremonies, funerals and his take on the Kwe Kwe tradition. the emphasis is place on the man, and birthday occasions. GUYANESE LITERATURE LEYLAND HAZLEWOOD’S tional marketing and project devel- 9 opment specialist and diplomat. He has been a corporate CHESTER CEO, lecturer in economics at Baruch College, NY, an GOES TO AFRICA executive member of the Board of Trustees for Early Steps, an organi- ABOUT THE BOOK his music. But will he be zation devoted to In this exciting read, everyone will able to find friendship in his new promoting diversity in New York follow Chester, the field mouse who environment? Read to find out. City’s independent schools and also longs for the Board of Trustees, St countryside that had been destroyed A beautiful story of adventure, Marks College, South Africa. for the building of a city, as he friendship, and the environment, Hazlewood has also produced two embarks on a journey Chester goes to Africa is editions of “The Green Toys to Africa. Chester goes to Africa to brightly colored, wonderfully writ- Directory”, a comprehensive guide find clean, wide open spaces with ten, and beautifully illustrated book. to green and eco-friendly toys and lakes, mountains and If you've ever wanted to find a way games. His consulting fields. Readers can join him on an to expose your kids to different cul- activities involving human develop- adventure of a lifetime as he faces tures this book is the perfect fit! ment, the environment and business with many fierce BUY THIS BOOK TODAY! I have been animals that frequent the African promise you and your kids won't be transformational in many countries landscape. Using his drum that he disappointed. over the span of three decades.. learned to play in the city that he left, Chester seeks to ABOUT THE AUTHOR befriend these fierce animals with Leyland Hazlewood is an interna-

Leyland Hazlewood makinga presentation at the 201 annual GCA Literary Hang in June.

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter GCA 10 YEARS CELEBRATING GUYANA’S CULTURAL HERITAGE 10 REMEMBERING TWO LEGENDS OF OUR TIME Wordsworth McAndrew - “Mac” Monica Choppoerfield- “Lady Guymine” Tangerine Clarke As the Annual trade, a product of the times during the 60s Guyana Folk and 70s, wanting the freedom that an artist Festival commemo- expected for full creativity. “He dressed dif- rates its 10th ferently but appropriately – his way - with Anniversary, let’s dashiki and sandals.”. take a brief look Mac spoke English, and also in a manner back, and say thank that most Guyanese would understand you to cultural legends Wordsworth known as – creoles. Most radio listeners McAndrew and Monica Chopprfield, who would tune in to Mac’s Creole Meche made significant contributions during GCA’s Meche. He expounded as a folklorist bring- decade of celebrations, and to Guyana’s cul- ing to the fore many of the charm of story- ture as a whole. telling and pride in Guyanese everyday lan- Wordsworth Mac and Lady Guymine were outstanding guage and mythology, said Girdhari. McANdrew and Guyanese. They were in a class by them- “Wordsworth’s acting prowess should not Monica selves. Ask anyone, and they will tell you go unnoticed. He was active in Theatre that these luminaries were pioneering Guild, and he is well remembered in Sheik Chopperfield geniuses who for decades, transfixed audi- Sadeike’s play Porknockers”, said Girdharri. “Lady Guymine ences with moving presentations, in their at GCA Awards Mac’s exceptional work transcended many own unique way. Ceremony” generations, and inspired the Guyana Mac’s passionate poem Ole’ Higue, became Cultural Association in 2002, to inaugurate a centerpiece at every production, and won the Wordsworth McAndrew Awards, a trib- the 2000 Commonwealth short Story ute that MacAndrew witnessed. Competition. His vast body of work includ- Mac became a fixture at the Annual Folk ed radio serials, writings, and words he Festival, but due to failing health, he, coined, can never be duplicated. because of a recluse and died in April 2008. Affectionately called Mac, this scholar of life I remember writing – “The curtain came lessons, was an outspoken champion for down on a once powerful cultural genius Guyanese culture. Dr. Vibert Cambridge that many called a pioneer of Guyanese folk- wrote “For almost five decades McAndrew lore, a national treasure. Wordsworth A. was an unyielding advocate for the collec- McAndrew, a man who lived his life as an tion, preservation, and celebration of active cultural ambassador for over 50 Guyanese life.” years, stayed still for the first time. Harry Girdhari, a neighbor and fan, hailed Mac as an original in the conduct of his

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter “Granny Fit, OL' HIGUE Granny Fit, by Wordsworth McAndrew 11 Granny Fit, Ol' woman wid de wrinkled skin, Fit, Fit” Leh de ol' higue wuk begin. Put on you fiery disguise, Ol' woman wid de weary eyes Shed you swizzly skin. Ball o' fire, raise up high Raise up till you touch de sky. Land 'pon top somebody roof Tr'ipse in through de keyhole - poof! Open you ol' higue eye. Find de baby where 'e lie Change back faster than de eye. Find de baby, lif de sheet, Monica Chopperfield who was known as Lady Mek de puncture wid you teet', Monica, Lady Guybau and Lady Guymine was defined by her charming stage presence, wit and Suck de baby dry. effervescence. She was a calypso and cultural Before 'e wake an' start to cry powerhouse. Popularly known as “Granny Fit”, Change back fast, an' out you fly. after one of her hugely popular hits, Find de goobie wid you skin Chopperfield’s career skyrocketed after a modest start at the then Olympic Cinema on Lambert Mek de semidodge, then - in! Street in Georgetown. Grin you ol' higue grin. Lady Guymine took the Caribbean by storm, per- In you dutty powder gown forming with giants like the Lord Canary, Lord Next day schoolchildren flock you round. Inventor, the Mighty Sparrow, Sam Chase and "Ol' higue, ol' higue!" dey hollerin' out Jack Mello, and the Syncopators Band, where she Tek it easy, hold you mout' performed as one of two lead innovative jazz and swing vocalists. She left an indelible mark wher- Doan leh dem find you out. ever she performed. Dey gwine mark up wid a chalk In 2003, Lady Guymine created a stir during her Everywhere wheh you got to walk first performance at the Annual Folk Festival, You bridge, you door, you jealousie when it was held at the Brooklyn Children’s But cross de marks an' leh dem see Museum. “Granny fit” took to the stage and Else dey might spread de talk. revved up the crowd with fitness antics, and stirring vocals that attracted a new fan base. After Fly across dis window sill, performing for many years with promoters Why dis baby lyin' so still? Howard McLeod and Les Slater at the Brooklyn Lif' de sheet like how you does do, Mother’s Day concerts, Lady Guymine dropped Oh God! Dis baby nightgown blue! out of sight after a hospitalized illness, and like Run fo' de window sill! Mac, faded away from public life. Woman you gwine run or not? But with the support of the GCA, Lady Guymine took a final bow in September 2008, at a benefit Doan mind de rice near to de cot. concert in Brooklyn, where she joined her old De smel l o' asafoetida calypso colleagues for an emotion, invigorating Like um tek effect 'pon you. presentation that got Lady Guymine on her feet You wan' get kyetch or what? for a ‘Granny Fit” moment. But now is too late for advice, Sadly, not long after Lady Guymine’s return to 'Cause you done start to count de rice her home in Guyana, she passed away, leaving behind a powerful legacy of great entertainment. continued on page 18

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter GCA 2011 FILM &VIDEO FESTIVAL 12 GUYANESE FILM MAKERS, ACTORS FOR NEW YORK PREMIERE SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011-4.00 P.M. BILLIE HOLIDAY THEATRE AT RESTORATION PLAZA The Guyana Cultural Associ- written several books including, ‘Con- team that worked with Guyanese ation Film & Video Festival will doned by Our Silence: Issues Impacting students and professionals to produce on Sunday, August 21, 2011 pre- the Abuse of Children in Guyana, Pepper Pot--an innovative documen- (UNICEF, 2000)’; ‘Caribbean Mytholo- tary series for Guyanese television. miere eight new short films pro- gy and Modern Life: 5 One Act Plays duced in Guyana by Guyanese He returned in March 2011 and for Young People ( The Majority Press directed the three (3) month training film makers. The screening at and UNESCO, 2004)’; “Song” ( 200) program on film making which and “Com Fiah” ( 1998) and “ Commu- the Billie Holiday Theatre at resulted in the eight (8) features films Restoration Plaza on Fulton nicative Power and Social Change in the Caribbean” (Hansib, London, made under the President's Film Street in Brooklyn, New York, 2011). Mohamed has also published Endowment Project 2010-- will start at 4.00 p.m. articles on communications and social CineGuyana 2011." The films which range in change in academic journals such as length from 12 minutes to 20 “The Journal of Caribbean Studies”. THE BOTTLE minutes are on varied themes Paloma Mohamed is currently Director: Smolana Varswyk, from love to loss and back again. Director of the Centre for Communi- is a 34 year old resident of the Essequi- PRESENTATION BY cation Studies at the University of bo Coast. She is a teacher at the Cot- DR. PALOMA The films are also of various Guyana where she also teaches social ton Field Secondary School and moth- MOHAMED, styles ranging from pseudo-horror ( psychology, television production and er of three lovely children. This is the DIRECTOR, CENTER Bunny Alves- The Encounter communications research. first film that Varswyk has written and FOR COMMUNICATION starring Jennifer Thomas ), to She is also the Chairperson of the directed. This film is based on a tale of the legendary ‘ baccoo' told to her by STUDIES, UNIVERSITY fable ( Smolana Varswyks “ The Theatre Guild of Guyana. her grandmother and mother. OF GUYANA ON THE Bottle, starring Henry Rodney” , Mohamed is a three time winner of STORY BEHIND THE to tragedy ( Shaudel Philips – the Guyana Prize for Literature. She has won the several other awards for - Born DRAMATIC Hope, starring Lisa Punch or Producer: Crystal Stoll her work in the Theatre including a on the 5th of July, 1992 in Georgetown, DEVELOPMENT IN Kojo Mcpheson’s Beached star- Cacique Lifetime awarded by Trinidad Guyana to Sherlock Stoll and Olive GUYANA FILM ring Leslyn ), comedy ( Errol and Tobago. She was recently awarded Obermuller. The third of five children, MAKING Chan’s Luck Beat Handsome a Presidential Medal of Service for her she attended Annandale Secondary AND starring Sheldon Braithwaite or work in arts and education in Guyana. School where she became actively Denise Harris’ Backyard starring involved in Drama, Music and Dance. MR. LOUIS KILKEN- Brian Zahm, Co-Executive Crystal then ventured into the field of NY, Tenica Defreitas) or drama ( Public Communication at the Universi- Producer of CineGuyana 2011. FORMER DIRECTOR, Tradition starring Lavonne ty of Guyana where she developed her "Brian Zahm, M.F.A. has worked GUYANA FILM George) skills through the various media of professionally in the film industry communication. Being a member of the CENTER ABOUT THE PRODUCERS & DIRECTORS: since 1994. His work as cinematog- President's Film Endowment, she Dr. Paloma Mohamed, rapher, director, producer, editor has gained her first experienced as a Pro- been shown at film festivals, clubs, ducer for the short film “THE BOT- Executive Producer galleries, and on television the world TLE”. Ms. Stoll’s greatest dream is to Dr. Paloma Mohamed is a social over. He earned his MFA from Ohio continue her work in the film industry, scientist by training and an artist by University's School of Film. Brian since her passion craves for creativity practice. She is an award winning poet, first visited Guyana in 2010 as part of and satisfying the public with hard essayist, playwright and director has work and entertainment.

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter

14 GCA 2011 FILM &VIDEO FESTIVAL BEACHED Director: Kojo McPherson - GUYANESE FILM MAKERS, 15 His first writings were poetry and he also became involved in performing. He joined the Janus Young Writers' Guild ACTORS FOR and became a known face in performance poetry. He pursued a Degree in NEW YORK PREMIERE International Relations from UG. He wrote his first play in 2010 during a tion His productions have been played at the University of Guyana, where Playwriting Workshop, a part of the on Radio & Television Stations in numerous opportunities arose for her to Theatre Guild's One Act Festival and Guyana, the Caribbean, USA, Brazil, harness her skills in television produc- the National Drama Festival. France, Malta, Norway, Costa Rica, Eng- tion. These skills she has been putting to 'BEACHED' is the first film he has land and Canada, the high point of good use by being a part of the CCS written and directed. Kojo is also a pho- which was the achievement of the first independent school production tographer. Album “CONSCIOUSNESS 2” gain- titled 'Cellink Kidstage’. She is an avid ing No 1 Status in Guam KPRG dancer and aspiring social researcher. Producer: Mosa Telford - She 89.3FM and France Radio 99.2FM. was introduced to Theatre at a very ten- der age by attending plays at the Nation- Producer: Charmaine Blackman TRADITION al Cultural Centre with her family. She - has been singing for 21 years profes- Director: Margaret Lawrence began by writing a few skits and poetry sionally and has contributed quite signif- A.A., Maggie Lawrence (as she is for the church she attended. She was icantly in the development of music in known to many) is an alumna of The also involved in a Youth Group called Guyana. She has done more than 100 Bishops High School and comes from a 'Youths with a Motive' headed by Mr. Radio & Television commercials for background of over thirty years in Eusi Kwayana. It was during this time major companies, over 40 music videos Broadcasting and the Performing Arts. that she wrote her first play called and recorded over 300 songs, appeared In 1991 she received a National Award, 'DREAM LESSON'. Most recently, she on stage with the cream of crop of The Golden Arrow of Achievement for participated in a playwriting workshop Caribbean & International Artistes such Drama & Broadcasting. Ms. Lawrence headed by Dr. Paloma Mohammed dur- as Machael Montano, Beres Ham- was trained at The University of ing which she wrote a play called mond, Alison Hinds and the Manhat- Guyana, Carimac, University of the 'SHADOWS'. Though she had written tans just to name a few. Ms. Blackman West Indies and The BBC. She's also a number of plays, it is the one that she has performed in 23 countries, the high the recipient of the Prime Minister's is most proud of because of the craft she point being at the RINGBANG MIL- Medal for Public Management (2000). learnt while writing this play. This play LENNIUM CONCERT in Tobago, She is the Executive Director of Merun- was a part of the Theatre Guild's One televised by the BBC to 2.5 billion view- doi Incorporated a Non Governmental Act Festival and the National Drama ers around the world, headlined by Organisation (NGO) specializing in Festival. 'BEACHED' is the first film Eddie Grant. Charmaine moved to behaviour change communication by she co-wrote and produced. another level by being the co-producer utilizing drama and other media. Mag- for the locally produced movies gie has been trained in acting, writing & 'RIGHT CHOICES', 'KING OF THE ENCOUNTER directing for Stage, Television, Film and DRUMS', and 'DECEPTION'. Her Street (Forum) Theatre by the BBC, Writer/Director & Editor: voice was also used in 2 locally produced Theatre Guild, Trevor Rhone, Denis Bonny Alves is regarded as the Pio- animated short films. Scott, Dr. Malcolm Rodrigues, Al neer in the rebirth of our local Music Creighton, Dr. Paloma Mohamed , Industry, an effort that started in 1991 3 CARDS Rebecca McCutcheon and Brian Zahm. which saw the reintroduction of local recordings. Since then he has been a Writer/Director: Michael Producer: Richard Pitman - major contributor working with over James - Born in the village of Buxton Richard Pitman is a scriptwriter at 100 local & overseas artistes, producing on the East Coast of Demerara but grew Merundoi, Incorporated for the past 5 & arranging over 700 recorded songs, up in Blue Berry Hill Wismar, Linden. years. He is pursuing a Diploma in producing radio & television commer- As a song and play writer he has pro- Communication Studies at the Univer- cials for some of the major companies, duced fourteen stage plays and numer- sity of Guyana. From news reporting, directed over 160 music videos, has 8 ous Gospel concerts. He has directed infomercials, public awareness cam- road march titles, produced 5 calypso and produced four movies: “THE paigns to poetry, he has always had a cre- monarchs, and has written, directed and COAL POT SAGA” , “ OLE HOUSE ative way of writing to get the message co-produced 6 short movies, making this PUN OLE HOUSE PARTS ONE & across. Dr. Paloma Mohamed, Trevor new movie his 7th. He has performed at TWO” and most recently “TAN- Rhone, Rebecca McCutcheon and Brian the renowned Apollo Theatre in New TIMERLE AND SHE JUNKY”. Zahm are persons who have influenced York and to-date stands at the only Assistant Director: Wadecia his writing career so far. Guyanese Composer & Arranger to Devonni Donald Wadecia is pursu- have won an international song competi- ing a degree in Communications Studies

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter GCA 2011 FILM &VIDEO FESTIVAL HOPE BACKYARD: 16 Director/Writer: Shaundel Director: Denise Harris - Phillips - Shaundel Phillips is a now holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Guyanese schoolteacher for over 20 Theology from the Caribbean School years. Ms. Phillips resides in Berbice of Theology, and an Honour Certifi- and enjoys writing about issues cate from Lever Brothers as a media reflecting her environment and experi- coordinator, a profession that she has ences. Her love for drama and The embraced in excess of thirty years. Arts has led this mother of one to pio- Denise is the CEO of her own neer the teaching of Theatre Arts at company 'Harris Art' and also serves the Caribbean Secondary Education as the Assistant Pastor of the Certificate level in Guyana. She has a Ruimveldt Life Improvement Centre passion for people and their way of (RLIC). Additionally, she is the wife life, which are issues reflected in the of the Senior Pastor of RLIC and a four plays she has written and staged loving mother of four children. She locally. She enjoys challenges and also directs music videos. eagerly anticipates doing what she Assistant Director/Screen- knows best, which is, making a differ- writer: Tiffany Vasquez - From ence in a person's life. the age of five, Tiffany's passion has always been to write so it came as no LUCK BEAT HANDSOME surprise when she first started writing songs. Now, at age nineteen she is con- Errol Chan - Writer/Director - stantly following her dreams of a Errol Chan has been writing, direct- becoming a full fledged writer by ing, performing and producing since pursing studies at the University of 1994. In 1996 Chan directed the win- Guyana. Tiffany is a Christian and a ning play which was performed by singer and her whole life revolves Bartica Secondary School at the first around The Arts.  ever National Drama Festival. He then directed Guyana's play at the Caribbean School Drama Festival which was held in 1997. In 2005 Chan wrote and directed his first play 'SHATTERED' and has since written and directed several other plays such as 'FLAWED' ' INFLUENCE' and 'WHEN JASON RETURNED' IN THIS ISSUE to name a few. This is Errol Chan's first attempt at writing and directing a Page 2: Symposium movie. Page 4: Art Exhibition Producer: Troy Azore - Troy Page 6: Donald Locke Azore has a career in The Arts that Page 8: The Kwe Kwe spans more than ten years. After start- tradition ing his career as a singer, performing Page 10: Legends with one of Guyana's most popular reggae groups “First Born”, Azore found a love for editing and video. He has since produced videos for some of Editor-in-Chief - Guyana's most recognised artistes like Tangerine Clarke Fojo and Fire Clann. . This is his first time producing a movie. Layout & Design - Ashton Franklin & Claire A. Goring Copy Editor- Edgar Henry

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS COME OUT Amsterdam, Georgetown, 17 AND SUPPORT Essequibo. THESE EVENTS Walk with your picnic baskets, chairs, tables, tents, etc.

For more information: WHAT’S Call Chuck Mohan at 917-697-8142 Harry Bissoon at HAPPENING 718-776-5792

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Hannah’s Supreme Sounds PICNIC IN THE PARK TO HAVE YOUR EVENT TICKETS: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 SATURDAY, PROMOTED IN 347-232-8930 FUTURE GCA 12:00pm AUGUST 27, 2011 NEWSLETTERS: 917 689 5129 Location: 917 692 8322 BAISLEY PARK 10.00 P.M. - 4.00 A.M. Contct PARBAMEL INC. Tangerine Rockaway Blvd & Sutphin Ave Clarke at Sponsored by Guyanese [email protected] FUNDRAISING Community Groups, including Corriverton, Enmore, DANCE Hampshire, New Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter THINGS GUYANESE THINGS SIAMESE 18 A Bakoo in Thailand by: Derrick “John” Jeffrey Across two oceans, seventeen international When the session was over the Thai teacher desire, I could take you to my friend’s house to date lines and more than ten thousand miles came to me and wanted to know more about see a real live Bakoo. away from Guyana you can find the Kingdom of Thailand, formally Siam. For those who are old enough to remember, it is just a place in a “Since I was knee high my parents warned me about 1956 movie, The King and I, staring Yule Backos. I just don’t feel comfortable going to a Brynner. For me, it is a surrogate home for a number of reasons such as: The abundance of house knowing that here is a Bakoo inside. Thanks pine-apple, mangoes, psydium, doungs, bora, but no thanks.” karila, bread fruit and sorrel at prices reminis- cent of Guyana 1960. This also comes with Bakoos. I explained to her that I was only the added attraction of living in a developing repeating what I heard when I was not more OL' HIGUE country in tropical Southeast Asia. After a few than ten-years old. I asked her why the interest by Wordsworth McAndrew years one gets accustomed to the humidity, in a folk tale that was spawned more than ten- continued from page 11 rain, flooding, mosquitoes and gossiping thousand miles away. She told me that she had neighbors. never heard the word Bakoo before and it An' if you only drop one grain sounded nice. Having avoided all of the depressing pit-falls I You must begin it all again. occupy myself by teaching English at a bilin- With the passage of time we both drifted But you gwine count in vain. gual high school. It was during this episode apart and I was told that the female teacher two years ago when it all happened. Periodical- who I was once a colleague of was not teaching Whuh ah tell you? ly during teaching I would punctuate my class at an international school in a province south Day done, light an' rice still with stories from my child hood days in of Bangkok. One holiday week end I was in a mountin' British Guiana (Guyana)–– Masakuraman, southern province and ran into the same Till dey wake an' kyetch you Moongazer, Ole higue and other jumbie sto- teacher I spoke to about the Bakoo story. He countin' ries. It was during one of these sessions when remembered me and proceeded to remind me An' pick u p de big fat I was relating the adventures of two Bakoos, about Bai and Boise. With a smile on her face cabbage broom Bai and Boise, which according to my aunt she said, “I got married eighteen months ago Mazie, were responsible for the disappearance and I would like to show you my new house An' beat you all around de room. of items or small amount of cash around the and would like you to meet my husband. He is Is now you should start countin' house including money she thought she hid from Australia.” under the oil-skin table cloth. After getting no I have never passed up a chance to make new Whaxen! Whaxen! Whaxen! Plai! reasonable answer from the children in the acquaintances, shake hands and shot the You gwine pay fo' you sins befo' you die. house she would conclude, with pot-spoon in breeze. My reply was, “Hey, I would be glad to Lash she all across she head one hand and after wiping her face with her meet your husband so I cold wish you both food-stained apron, “Well, I guess Bai and success I your marriage.” You suck me baby till um dead? Boise come in de house and tek it.” According Whaxen! Whaxen! Plai! to aunt Mazie’s husband, uncle Eustace, Bai Her smile got even bigger as she noticed that I and Boise were two spirit-like people not more was willing to go with her to the family home. than eighteen-inches tall As I climbed into the back seat of her car, she You feel de manicole 'cross you hip? that were once owned by a rich Asian man in turned around and said, “By the way, I have a Beat she till blood start to drip. new born baby boy at home, his name is Robb Street. The Bakoos were responsible for "Ow me God! You bruk me hip! Bakoo.” his wealth and obeyed his every command just Done now, nuh? Allyou done!" as long as he kept them fed with milk and “Stop, stop the car,” I said. bananas. However, the owner of the Bakoos With a surprised look on her face she asked Is whuh you sayin' deh, you witch? died and the Bakoos had to fend for them- what the matter was. Without showing any selves. So, in their invisible state they would go signs of worry I said, “Since I was knee high Done? Look, allyou beat de bitch. from place-to-place creating all kinds of mis- my parents warned me about Backos. I just Whaxen! Whaxen! Pladai! Plai! chief including stealing money. don’t feel comfortable going to a house know- Die, you witch you. Die. As I unfolded the adventures of Bai and Boise ing that here is a Bakoo inside. Thanks but no Whaxen! Whaxen! Plai! to a class of high school seven-graders I thanks.” I came out of the car and headed for noticed one of the female Thai teachers fol- the safety of a crowded coffee shop. lowing my every word with intense interest. If you ever come to Thailand and you so

Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter “Aal Bady, Waan Bady” TEN YEARS CELEBRATING 19 GUYANA’S KWE KWE NITE CULTURAL HERITAGE SEPTEMBER 2, 2011 - 8.00 p.m. FOLK FESTIVAL St. Stephens Church Auditorium 2806 Newkirk Avenue, 2011 Brooklyn, NY

CALENDAR GCA SYMPOSIUM SEPTEMBER 3, 2011 SUNY/Empire State OF EVENTS College 177 Livingston Street, 6th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201 GCA SUMMER FILM & VIDEO FESTIVAL HERITAGE CAMP FAMILY FUN DAY Arts in the Community NY PREMIERE OF 8 FILMS SEPTEMBER 4, 2011 JULY 11- PRODUCED BY GUYANESE Meyer Levin School AUGUST 18, 2011 FILM MAKERS Grounds AUG 21, 2011 - St. Stephen’s Church 4.00 p.m. Ralph Avenue Auditorium (Bet. Beverly-Tilden) The Billie Holiday Theatre 2806 Newkirk Avenue, Brooklyn, NY11203 Brooklyn, NY at Restoration Plaza 1368 Fulton Street, PERFORMING REGISTRATION CLOSED Brooklyn, NY 11216 TEL: 718 209 5207 ARTS FESTIVAL Website: guyfolkfest.org GCA AWARDS SEPTEMBER 23, 24, 25, CEREMONY 2011 AUGUST 31, 2011 C.L.R. James - ART EXHIBITION (By Invitation Only) “Minty Alley” CONTEMPORARY EXPRESSIONS Brooklyn “Art from the Guyana Diaspora” Borough Hall Meyer Levin AUGUST 14 - 209 Joralemon St. Performing Arts SEPTEMBER 4 - 2011 Brooklyn, NY 11209 School Auditorium FiveMyles Gallery Ralph Avenue 558 St. Johns Place, (Bet. Beverly-Tilden) Brooklyn, NY 11238 Brooklyn, NY11203

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Guyana Cultural Association of New York Inc. Newsletter