Georgetown rocks to the rhythm of Mash
By Andre Haynes
and Iana Seales
Stabroek News
February 24, 2003
Thousands took to the city streets to watch and take part in the annual Mashramani Costume and Float Parade, revelling in a spirit of national unity.
Despite it being the anniversary of the jail-break which ushered in a year of unparalleled violence, Georgetown overflowed with people, cheering on the colourful costume bands and floats, perhaps trying to relax for just one day amid the troubles.
But the number of spectators was down from previous years and the party only really got started in the afternoon as more families came out lining the streets and filling the National Park to watch the entries.
Other families opted to `cool out' with picnics in the park or `lime' with friends along the Merriman's Mall, rather than dancing to the numerous sound systems. Vendors also looked to 'catch their hand' staking out spots along the parade route from daybreak, displaying everything from sunglasses and jewellery to smoked salmon and barbeque chicken.
With the judges looking for the spirit of mash among revellers, entertainment was at its best for the Costume and Float Parade. The revellers danced, moved and shook as they sashayed down the road to the hit tunes of Compton Hodges's "Umbrella Party" and Seven's "G.T Carnival".
This year's costume parade featured many of the usual suspects such as the Rayon House of Fashion and the ministries of Fisheries, Education, Health and Culture. There were some unusual entries including the Government Information Agency (GINA) and GAWU which attracted curious stares along the route from Camp and Church streets to the National Park. The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association distributed condoms along the route.
The parade rolled off from Camp and Church Streets 45 minutes after the usual 10 am start. Minister of Culture Gail Teixeira said she was ready to proceed at 10:15 am but one of the larger bands had insisted on waiting until a larger crowd had gathered along the road.
After two false starts, owing to some trouble with their sound system, the Life-line Counselling band was sent on its way by Teixeira. This was followed by a colourful and energetic Ministry of Education contingent of 200 persons; the Guy-ana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) with in excess of 100 persons; and the Ministry of Culture who brought more than 200.
Some of the more colourful, creative, teasing and titillating costumes were by Rayon House of Fashion, which had a contingent in excess of 100 persons and mashed under the theme "Back to Basics," showcasing traditional styles and culture, representing forests, riches, purity, the struggle for freedom and unity. The band was beautifully attired but failed to make a huge impact since many onlookers departed before their arrival around midday.
Revellers of the Don Gomes band attired in skimpy blue and yellow costumes were the main attraction. Onlookers were intrigued by the outfits of the "Carib girls."
One observer hopefully asked: "Why don't some of Don Gomes' revellers just come naked?" The Hits and Jams band dubbed "Jungle Mania" was also well received by the crowd.
The judges were looking for the use of Guyanese music and the spirit of mash among other elements. The judges comprised, Phyllis Jackson, Chief Judge, Darell Leitch, Gabrielle Walcott, Desiree Edghill, Youlanda Hendricks, Lorraine Barker King, Desiree Wyles Ogle and Leola Robinson.
As the parade passed along Church Street, small groups of persons lined the sidewalks and some families were camped out along the Merriman Mall. The same was evident along Irving Street and Vlissengen Road up to Thomas Lands.
However by the time Lifeline entered the National Park at 1 pm, moving to the sounds of Compton Hodge's Umbrella Party, the streets were crammed and scores were trickling into the park, filling the remaining seats. By the end of the day there were no remaining seats to fill as large numbers accompanied the costume bands along the route to the park. Among the spectators were President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and his wife Yvonne Hinds.
By the end of the afternoon the Park was almost full as many of the bands continued to parade during the late afternoon.
Speaking with Stabroek News yesterday afternoon Minister Teixeira said that she had been impressed by the number of new designs by unknown designers from the regions. She noted that the work they produced was of good quality and she offered praise for their originality.
Texiera also lauded the efforts of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the only labour union which participated in yesterday's celebrations. She said she hoped other unions would follow GAWU's lead and join in the celebrations next year.
Meanwhile commenting on the fairly large turnout the Minister noted that the numbers reaffirmed her belief in the unity of the Guyanese people. She noted that it was important that people not let the situation frighten and terrorise them.
