T-shirt bands expected to make full comeback

A number of changes to carnival activities here is sure to guarantee the longevity of one of this country’s indigenous traditions: Monday afternoon t-shirt bands.{{more}}

The holding of a preliminary king and queen of the bands competition (Mas On The Move), has taken a few hours away from the usually long Dimanche Gras competition, which features mas, pan and calypso competitions.

The shortened Sunday show, means that Monday morning J’Ouvert can begin and end sooner, giving revelers a chance to return for Monday afternoon Jump up.

Because of this, an increased number of t- shirt bands is guaranteed to be on the streets of Kingstown this year.

These include Shock and Awe, sponsored by Cable and Wireless and featuring the Vincy Soca Dans, and OMS and Funtime’s peace and unity featuring Hottsand.

Other Monday t-shirt bands include the CDC/ National Lotteries Authority band and the National Insurance Services/GECCU Magic Monday Band.

The bands expect a high turn out this year, because of the prices of t shirts, prizes and giveaways.

Another incentive for joining a t-shirt band may be the extended hours on the road, these have been changed from 9 pm to 11.

The jump up action begins at 4pm. (JJ)