Huge turnout for annual Prisons Concert

Last Sunday, Vincentians turned out in their numbers to particpate in the ‘Talent Behind The Walls’ prison concert – an event that is highly anticipated annually.

The Court House yard was filled to almost maximum capacity on Sunday, December 21, as inmates from the male and female prisons{{more}} showcased their musical talent, with the help of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force police band.

The concert, which can trace its beginning back to 1978 when American Evangelist Don Overstreet began working with convicts who had dedicated their lives to God, saw a mixture of performances: from traditional Christmas carols to country and western songs, to original songs penned by inmates themselves.

The highlights of the show were undoubtedly inmates David Mack and Bernard ‘Doctor’ Shallow. Mack, who is an amputee, thrilled the crowd with ‘Somebody Else’s Christmas Tree’ and ‘It Could Have Been Me’, while Shallow took the beat of Popcaan’s ‘Everything Nice’ and remixed it with his own Christmas themed lyrics.

Other performers included Sonya Matthews, Deswayne Williams, Frankie Lavia, Joleen Williams, Glenroy Browne, Junior Quashie, Irvin Abbott, Noel Browne, Rakene Maingot, Javid Clarke, Fetricia McCoy, Meshalannie Simmonette, Denise Lee, Perline Shallow, Osrick Young, Bobby Joseph, Luke Williams, and Oldred Da Silva.

Superintendent of Prisons (Ag) Brenton Charles thanked patrons for their usual attendance, and appealed to them maintain peace throughout the concert. He also said that he hoped that peace would be maintained throughout the Christmas season and beyond.

“Thank you for taking time out and coming here this evening to enjoy this Christmas treat that our inmates have put on for you!” he enthused.

Charles said that over the years, there have been increasing calls to have the event staged at the Victoria Park, but that it will remain at the Court House yard because it is not intended to be a money-making venture, but rather an occasion to share in the spirit of the season, and to showcase inmates’ talents.

Charles also noted that this is the third consecutive year that the Police Band and the organization Pan Against Crime have been involved in the implementation of the concert.

“If we work together, we form stronger unions; and we are grateful that these people can share with us… and work towards minimizing the levels of crime that occur in our nation daily,” he explained.

Music was also provided by Vita Malt Symphonix Steel Orchestra and deejay Chris ‘2 Kool’ Jones, with guest appearances by The Bowmans, Rondy ‘Luta’ McIntosh, and special character ‘Granny’. (Go to www.facebook.com/Searchlight1 to view a video from the concert.) (JSV)