By Stephen Weir

On Saturday night, the Harbourfront Centre and Theatre in Toronto was abuzz with excitement as it hosted the Battle of the Bands and a celebration of Jean Augustine’s 83rd birthday. The event, held under the banner of the #CaribbeanTales Film Festival (#ctff), attracted a lively crowd eager to celebrate both music and a distinguished figure in Canadian history.

The evening featured performances by two renowned musicians and the screenings of two Toronto Caribbean Carnival films. The highlight was the screening of “Iconography: Mungal Patasar,” a Trinidad documentary directed by Mikhail Gibbings and Teneka Mohammed. The film delves into the life and career of Indo-Trinidadian musician Mungal Patasar, celebrated for his unique fusion of sitar and steelpan, blending Eastern and Western musical traditions. Patasar, who traveled from Trinidad for the event, performed a captivating set accompanied by pannist Professor Harold Headley, earning resounding applause from the audience.

Jean Augustine, born on September 9, 1937, in Grenada, was celebrated throughout the evening. After moving to Canada, Augustine became a prominent figure in the Liberal Party and made history as the first Black Canadian woman to serve as a federal Minister of the Crown and Member of Parliament. Her contributions to Canadian politics and society were acknowledged with warm applause as she took the stage to present awards.

The event also featured the 2nd annual Jean Augustine Excellence Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to the arts. This year she chose Eddie Bullen who was honoured for his extensive career as a pianist, composer, arranger, and producer. Since arriving in Toronto from Grenada in 1980, Bullen has collaborated with Caribbean, Canadian, and American artists, including Byron Lee, Maestro, David Rudder, and Deborah Cox. His impressive body of work includes composing and arranging for TV, radio, and film, and producing over 200 albums.

In his acceptance speech, Bullen expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the significance of receiving the award named after such a remarkable individual. “It’s a true honour to be celebrated alongside the Honorable Jean Augustine,” he said. “Her dedication to celebrating others on her special day is truly inspiring.”

The evening also included a special tribute performance by the sensational Belinda Brady and a live steelpan performance by the talented Suzette Vidale. The night was a perfect blend of culture, music, and celebration, highlighting both artistic excellence and community spirit.