Mas Domnik 2016 was officially launched on Thursday December 3rd under the theme ‘The Spirit of the Real Mas’.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Hon. Minister for Tourism, Senator Robert Tonge solicited the participation of all Dominicans towards a successful Mas Domnik 2016.
“The staging of the successful Mas Domnik 2016 will necessitate all hands on deck. The Ministry of Tourism can’t do it by itself; you can’t do it by yourself; many hands make light work.
“Dominica may have been rattled by Erika however we are now counterpunching as we all seek to bounce back in a vigorous fashion from the latest setback.”
Minister Tonge added, “Violence against any individual should not be tolerated especially against minors and our beautiful women. We will work closely with the police and the other stakeholders to ensure that our Carnival is a safe one and free from violence. The Government of Dominica is committed to supporting Carnival and our culture will do all in its power to take it to the best level.”
He also urged the private sector to make meaningful contributions towards the festivities.
Acting Chief Cultural Officer, Jacinta David, spoke on behalf of the Hon. Minister for Culture, Justina Charles. She highlighted the role of Government in preserving the true essence of Dominica’s carnival, the Real Mas.
“For the Real Mas 2016, we are looking to stage a festival in the eastern community of Castle Bruce on Tuesday February 2nd. Over the next few weeks more details will become available as we deepen discussions with stakeholders in that community. The Division of Culture is also paying attention to training and documentation of the traditional mas. The Old Mas and Sensay Festival provides such an opportunity.
“Earlier this year, the Division worked with relevant stakeholders of the Kalinago community and the Discover Dominica Authority to organize a very successful Tête Casé workshop in the Kalinago Territory.”
Kathleen Cuffy-Jno Jules, Product Promotions Manager of the Discover Dominica Authority says the participation of the private sector in Mas Domnik 2016 is so far encouraging.
Mas Domnik headline sponsor Flow, formally LIME, has pledged $200,000 towards the celebrations.
The official opening of carnival is carded for January 16th. However activities will run from December 5th beginning with calypso eliminations.
Street jump up and parade of costume bands will be February 8th and 9th 2016.
The six contestants vying for the title of Miss Dominica 2016 were officially presented at the launching ceremony of Mas Domnik 2016 on Thursday.
They are Judy Toussaint representing the community of San Sauveur, Mernel Christmas of Campbell, Nawana Shillingford of Loubiere, Brittany Pharoah representing Grand Bay, Abigail Shillingford representing Goodwill and Tasia Floissac representing the community of Castle Comfort.
The Queen Show pre-show which provides an opportunity for the ladies to receive sponsorship is carded for December 19th.
The Miss Dominica pageant is carded for February 5th 2016.