SCORES OF BARBADIANS assembled in Independence Square on Monday evening to celebrate the life of the late Prime Minister, the Right Honourable David John Howard Thompson, through a cultural concert.
The concert, titled Don’t Panic and organized by George Pilgrim and Norman Barrow, included performances from over 15 local entertainers, who rendered some of Thompson’s favourite songs. Among those who assembled to participate in the celebration were Thompson’s widow Mara and their three daughters, Oya, Misha and Osa-Marie.
Ronnie Morris and Toni Norville united to deliver a beautiful rendition of I Look To You, which they dedicated to the late Prime Minister’s widow. That memorable performance was followed by calypsonian Adrian Clarke and his a cappella version of Morgan Heritage’s Down By The River. Dwayne Husbands was there to deliver his No. 1 Fan, while Kareen Clarke sang Just Want To Be Your Friend and You Raise Me Up.
During those performances some members of the audience remained sitting in the blue and yellow chairs provided for them. But from the time the band krosfyah started heating up the stage for singers Khiomal Nurse and Edwin Yearwood to come on, those sitting joined the standing party.
The band delivered a number of their popular songs. In an emotional rendition, Yearwood gave the first live performance of the self-penned Until We Meet Again, which he dedicated to Thompson.
Member of Parliament for The City, Patrick Todd, who was among those present, pleaded with Barbadians to put aside political differences and unite as one Barbadian people on such occasions.
“This was a very profound expression of love and appreciation for the life and times of our beloved late Prime Minister, the Honourable David Thompson, especially at this time . . . when we are celebrating Independence.
“It was tremendous that the various artistes were able to show their appreciation for David’s contribution to national development in such a tangible way, freely giving of their talent. These artists showed the widow and children of the late Prime Minister that we as a Barbadian people will keep his memories dearly in our hearts,” said Todd. (AH)