Grass Roots and Blankets, a hit
A second serving of the live performance showcase Grass Roots and Blankets, which took place on Sunday on the lawns of 14 University Crescent in Kingston, was a hit with patrons who came out in their numbers despite the inclement weather earlier in the evening.
The turnout was bigger this time around, compared to the last staging held in early October.
Carol Dexter-Dwyer, co-manager of the band 8, is host of the Grass Roots and Blankets series.
“The event went extremely well. Despite the weather and our late start as a result of that factor, we cannot complain. People still showed up and they had a blast. All the performers were on point, and we’ve only received positive feedback. This month we featured two male and two female rising artistes, along with the band, 8, the hosts of the event. We had talent from around the region [Antigua and St Vincent]. And all were well appreciated and received by our gracious patrons. We are truly grateful for all the support,” said Dexter-Dwyer.
Prior to the performance of 8, which closed the proceedings, Rhoni Dee, a final-year student at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts; Lisa Davis, a vocalist and former background singer for the late Toots Hibbert; Amarni Gomes from Antigua and Barbuda who also plays the steel pan; and singer and guitarist Krystian Mark from St Vincent performed to a receptive audience.
“The highlight of the evening was the unexpected turnout despite the setback with the weather. We were truly surprised that so many people still came out and stuck around even after the late start. All performers were well received by the audience. They participated in every way imaginable. They sang along, danced, and stayed very engaged throughout the show,” said Dexter-Dwyer.
8, which closed the evening’s proceedings, sang a rendition of Romain Virgo and Agent Sasco’s Fade Away, Lukie D’s Missing You, and Adore You by Harry Styles. Their original efforts Fake News and Guilty were also well-received.
The next staging of Grass Roots and Blankets is scheduled for December 18 at the same location.