Saldenah brings to life the ‘ Spirit of Carnival ‘

By Twylan Best

Band launch season is the unofficial kickoff to Toronto’s summer festivities, and no launch would be complete without the city’s largest and most iconic band, Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club.

Just a few weeks ago, Saldenah’s 2025 presentation, “Spirit of Carnival,” lit up Grand Cinnamon Banquet Hall, drawing a packed crowd eager to see what the legendary band had in store.

The event featured two rhythm sections, one inside the ballroom and another pulsing through the foyer, setting the stage for a full night of energy and celebration. Local vendors and Caribbean food spots lined the space, giving attendees a taste of the islands before the costume display even began.

Downstairs, the prep area was alive with movement. Each section had its own table where teams were busy with last-minute touches. Makeup artists, hairstylists, and section leaders worked

in sync, with glue guns in hand finishing off backpacks, headpieces and wristbands.

Backstage The Caribbean Camera had the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship firsthand, from makeup tips to tricks for keeping arm bands secure for the road.

A key takeaway? Sunscreen is a must-have on carnival day.

Saldenah’s costume presentation was nothing short of spectacular. The stage lit up with vibrant colours, elaborate featherwork and precise detailing that transported the audience straight to the heart of the Caribbean. The band stayed true to its theme, “Spirit of Carnival,” delivering a show that celebrated the soul, movement, and emotion behind every design.

A standout moment was the performance by Nicholas Guy (@mandangelo_g), Saldenah’s “King of Carnival.” His presence on stage was more than a model moment. It was a celebration of culture and identity.

Nicholas’s passion radiated beyond the costume, turning his segment into a powerful expression of what it means to truly live the carnival spirit.

Following the costume display, the atmosphere shifted seamlessly into a full-blown afterparty.

The ballroom brought the hype with high-energy soca, while the foyer delivered a more laid-back, groovy vibe, giving guests the best of both worlds as the celebration carried on into the night.

The launch also included a photo booth activation courtesy of Clore Beauty (@clorebeauty), where guests gathered for group shots and keepsake moments. It was just another layer to analready immersive experience, one that blended artistry, tradition, and modern carnival flair.

It was heartening to see the wider mas’ community show up in support, with appearances by Hayden Joseph (Lavway Mas), Jerrol “Stretch” Augustine (Epic Carnival), and Dexter Seusahai (Tribal Carnival). Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit and unity that continue to define Toronto’s carnival landscape.

Photos for this article were provided by Parris (@parrisvisuals), a carnival photographer of three years, and Grizzly (@grizzlyvisualz), a seasoned photographer/videographer who has been covering culture and carnival for seven years, four of which have been dedicated to the mas’ scene.

For updates on registration, events, and mas’ camp info, follow Saldenah on Instagram: @saldenahcarnival.

#SaldenahCarnival #SpiritOfCarnival #TorontoCarnival2025 #MasCulture #SocaVibes #CaribbeanCarnival #TorontoMas #CarnivalCostumeReveal #CarnivalKing #SaldenahLaunch2025