Emancipation Jubilee 2010 promises to be another pulsating affair. Patrons attending the annual cultural celebration held at the Seville Heritage Park in St Ann can expect an exciting show this year with an intriguing blend of traditional and popular cultural items. The show which is held on the eve of Emancipation Day, July 31 is a cultural celebration of our freedom.

The pulsating sounds of African drumming, the ritualistic chants of a Kumina session, bodies swaying in the cool St Ann night air and the wonderful smells of freshly brewed Jamaican chocolate filling the air are just some of the features of the annual Emancipation Jubilee celebrations.

After the dramatic reenactment of the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation at midnight the dynamic Fab Five Band will kick off the pop segment of the show. The band will take Jamaicans on a musical journey of Jamaica’s heritage in music providing backing for Etana, Ernie Smith, Leroy Sibbles, George Nooks, Stranjah Cole, Gem Myers, Lady G, Romaine Virgo, Gee Whiz and a host of others.

This year, according to communications manager at the Jamaica National Heritage Trust Richard Kildare, the event will be more participatory. Patrons will enter through a specially created entrance experiencing a simulated African village. They will then travel through the gates of no return on to a model of a slave ship which transports them to the Seville plantation in Jamaica where they will have a chance to visit the African village and experience Afro centric traditional folk forms. Perennial favourites such as the Manchioneal Cultural Group, Port Morant Kumina, Stella Maris Dance Ensemble, Energy Plus Mento Band and the St Ann Cultural Group are just some of the cultural groups that will be performing.

The event which commemorates the emancipation of our African ancestors from enslavement, focuses attention on all aspects of their lives through song, dance, drama, food, drumming and other exciting activities. Guiding the proceedings all night will be experienced emcees Amina Blackwood-Meeks and Jenny-Jenny.

The show which will have the Seville Great House as a backdrop is the coming together of traditional folk forms in celebration of Emancipation. The event seeks to educate Jamaicans about various aspects of their heritage in a colourful package and relaxed atmosphere. Traditional foods and items will be on sale and patrons can enjoy strong Jamaican chocolate all night long so they are encouraged to bring their enamel mugs. Gates will open at 6:00 pm.