By Stephen Weir

While Toronto Caribana revelers have put away their mas costumes and glitter and brought out their Christmas decorations, Trinidadian music man Etienne Charles wants Caribbean Camera readers to come dance with him in the streets of Port of Spain in a couple months. That’s right, forget about winter holidays, suddenly it is time to think about taking part in the 2023 Carnival that takes place February 15 to February 22 in T&T.

In an email to reporter Stephen Weir, he sent out a newsletter invitation for Canadians to come and jam with his Riddim Bras Mas band.

“For my Toronto Carnival lovers,” wrote Charles “Come jump with us as we take our live brass band back to the streets of Woodbrook and Port of Spain for another stellar time with world class musicians and renowned special guests celebrating the

Revival of live brass on the road for Carnival.” 

Trinidad-born Etienne Charles is a performer, composer, educator and storyteller, who is continuously searching for untold stories and sounds with which to tell them.  The trumpeter is dedicated to the preservation of artistic traditions in his homeland and is inspired to form and lead Carnival bands each year.

The 2023 Carnival had its official launch already in early November. Last week Charles opened his Mas Camp on Scott Bushe Street in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

Planning on running away and being with Etienne in Trinidad in February? It is strongly recommended that you register before flying out.

“For my Carnival lovers, Online Registration for Riddim Brass Mas at https://www.etiennecharles.com is open” he said. “Come jump with us as we take back to the streets of Woodbrook and Port of Spain with the (Carnival)Revival.”