Port-of-Spain, Trinidad – The food-inclusive shindig, dubbed “Frolic” is the brainchild of one of the country’s most pronounced radio personalities and hosts, Ken Simmons. Today, the event will debut and the promoter said it “will shut down any question surrounding the existing energy of Carnival Friday, laying to rest any concerns had about the vibe this once powerful and fantastic day on the carnival calendar, delivered to the world arriving on the island’s doorsteps”.
“What we’re doing here is solidifying our carnival again. It’s important to us, as stakeholders in this cultural space, to ensure that the world sees, recognises and understands that we hold fast to our festival,” Simmons said.
Following Carnival 2024, Simmons met with prominent event promoter, Cliff Harris of Tropix Entertainment – a tremendous force in the industry over many years. Together they resolved to make Carnival Friday a success once again.
“After years of The International Soca Monarch being the main showcase on Carnival Friday, its departure from the calendar, in our view, left a void to be filled,” Simmons said.
The “Frolic” concept was born out of his desire to lift the spirits of his people – many of whom have supported him along his journey in entertainment and attending his annual boat rides.
Today, the event, which is being hosted at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s, will feature major soca stars such as Bunji Garlin, Farmer Nappy, Lyrikal and Mical Teja.
“This is more than just a fete to attend. Frolic is going to be an immersive sort of experience. We’re bridging any gaps that may have presented . . . over the years, between entertainment and service, culture and people. We’re bringing back ‘feel good’ carnival vibes, reintroducing the joy of feting and mingling, sharing the culture as one human race, and reminding those who attend that it all starts and ends with love,” he said.
The food-inclusive event will allow patrons to attend with coolers or patronise the bar.
“One of the things I pride myself on is impact. I always want to know that no matter what, the impact of the offering, is long lasting and memorable,” Simmons said.
On Frolic’s menu will be Jamaican and Creole dishes, Mediterranean delights, a pasta station, Italian dishes, Chinese, Indian food, Trinidad and Tobago cuisine and desserts of all sorts. (PR/NS)
