Jazz En Vierge: the Micoud Experience was a hit – again. Now in its second year, the all-white event was the third in a series of community events on the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival roster.
Held on Sunday, April 26, it lived up to the hype and more. Set in the tranquillity of Point Vierge in Micoud Village, the event featured good music, food and treats from the community, as well as a “made in Micoud” section showcasing crafts, beveragesand other items.
On stage, Jazz En Vierge featured homegrown talent, including Sherol Francis and Level 4, a duo that has made its mark on the local music scene. Also performing were Rupert Lay, Glen Henry, and 6 Mile. As the sun went down, the temperature onstage rose as the Impulse band took the stage, offering a potpourri of Caribbean hits, including their recent release. The band also backed Michael Robinson, Level 4, and Meshach, all of whom won the crowd’s approval.
Headliner Luciano of Jamaica delivered a fitting finale, offering melodious, conscious reggae to the audience. Songs such as “Your world and mine”, “Lord give me strength”, “This one’s for the leaders” and “Messenger,” among other hits, were enjoyed by the large crowd.
Micoud North MP Jeremiah Nobert on Monday said the event was “a telling moment for the people of Micoud”. He described Jazz en Vierge as the best community Jazz event. “I know other parliamentarians may have a different view, but I know patrons will tell you that Jazz en Vierge is indeed the best community jazz in Saint Lucia.”
He noted that attendance increased this year and the anticipated economic benefits were achieved.
“What is important for me is the economic opportunities from an activity such as Jazz En Vierge,” Nobert said. He disclosed that many food vendors sold out before the event concluded.
“The vendors who were there were all Micoudians. When you look at the individuals who provided the supplies, the majority were from the community,” the MP said.
“What we have decided is to look at the areas where there are gaps in terms of what the community can provide because if we are going to make Pointe Vierge the mecca of entertainment in the south, the truth is I would really love to see more young people be partners and be able to benefit,” Norbert said.
He applauded the team of organisers headed by Louise Victor, as well as the volunteers who, he said, put in the hard work that made another successful event possible.
