FT. LAUDERDALE – The second staging of the Reggae Symphony 2009, at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA), Fort Lauderdale, Sunday (Mar. 29) was a huge success with throngs of reggae enthusiasts reminiscing to the extensive repertoire of songs from three reggae icons done in a spectacular theatrical presentation.
The premiere event included stellar performances from reggae ambassador Freddie McGregor, reggae songstress Marcia Griffiths, and veteran singer and songwriter, Bob Andy and were accompanied by saxophonist, Dean Fraser and Lloyd Parkes and ‘We the People’ band.
The musical talents were also accompanied by the Reggae Strings Orchestra directed by Mr. John Williams, creating a unique sound as the classical art form was added to the musical genre.
The show was opened by Marcia Griffiths who is currently celebrating 46 years in the music industry. Formerly of the I-Threes along with Rita Marley and Judy Mowatt, the reggae legend seized the opportunity to pay tribute to international reggae legend, the Hon. Robert Nesta (Bob) Marley whom she honored for opening the doors internationally for the success of reggae worldwide.
Songwriter Bob Andy followed with a trail of songs he had composed over the years thrilling the audience with reggae favorites of the 1970’s.
Freddie McGregor who was making a repeat performance, following the debut of the Reggae Symphony last year with John Holt, also gave an outstanding performance.
Highlight of the evening was the encore performance of all three distinguished artists doing the grand finale with a rendition of “United We Stand, Divided We Fall” done as a reggae classic.
International reggae artists Freddie McGregor, Marcia Griffiths and Bob Andy signing a rendition of “Divided We Stand United We Fall” at Reggae Symphony 2009
Mr. Douglas Lawrence, a Jamaican national visiting from Richmond, Virginia, said that he enjoyed the concert immensely as he experienced reggae transcending to a different level.
Public Affairs Director of the BCPA, Ms. Jan Goodheart expressed elation with the staging of the premiere reggae performance, in its second year at the BCPA, which she said was an indication of the growing demand for diverse cultural performances now enriching the cultural landscape of South Florida. She has expressed the desire for this event to become a calendar staple for the Broward Theatre.
Consul General Sandra Grant Griffiths congratulated all three artists for their outstanding performances as she greeted them individually backstage after the show. Expressing her enjoyment after an entertaining event, she remarked that such performances have contributed to bringing Jamaican culture to the forefront and continuing to cultivate international audiences.
Master of Ceremonies was veteran Jamaican broadcast journalist and Commissioner of the City of Miramar, Mr. Winston Barnes.
Reggae Symphony since its debut performance last April, is among the range of successful performances held at the BCPA following an alliance forged with the Consulate General of Jamaica resulting in successful performances by the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC), several performances of Dem Three Jamaican Tenors, and Jamaica Farewell.
The BCPA also housed the annual Reggae Soca Awards, produced by veteran South Florida media personality, Winsome Charlton of Hi Class Promotions.
The Broward Theatre is home to many international artists and world-class performances.
Presentation of reggae in its classical presentation has captivated audiences on several world stages like the Madison Square Gardens and Lincoln Center in New York, the Hammerstein Ballroom in London as well as in Canada and Jamaica.
