Junior Carnival Queen 2019 D’ Yorlana Meyers. (Photo Robert Luckock)
MARIGOT--The streets of Marigot were awash with colours and confetti on Sunday, as the Children’s Parade wound its way around town impressing the many spectators lining the route.
What a difference a year makes? Schools have again put their best foot forward despite constraints to celebrate the “We Culture, We Fête” slogan for this year’s carnival. Nine schools participated each presenting a different theme. The parade started from the Louis-Vanterpool Stadium at around 2:30pm, made its way along Rue de Hollande, into Rue de la République, along Rue de la Liberté to complete a circuit and the finish at the stadium.
The procession was led by Junior Carnival Queen 2019 D’ Yorlana Meyers in a motorcade with her runners-up in a following car. Master of Ceremonies Ricky Da Phox kept the crowds entertained with his running commentary.
Troupes participating, in order, were: Jérôme Beaupère kindergarten (theme- Fleurs des Iles); Emile Choisy Primary School (theme-Tulles et Plumes); Marie Antoinette Richards Primary School (theme-Under the Sea); Hervé Williams Primary School (theme-Pineapple Fest); Elie Gibs Primary School (theme-African Royalty); Association Les Manguiers/ Rhythm and Groove (theme-Les Sirenes); Marie-Amelie Leydet Primary School (theme- Sailors and Fishermen); St. Maarten Chinese Community Foundation and French Quarter Collège (theme-La Roche Gravee de Moho).
As usual a choreographed segment was judged on Rue de La République. The judging panel for the troupes comprised Agnesa Leblanc, Sabrina Charville and Head Judge Magalie Jasaron; for choreography Melissa Boasman, Fabiana Richardson and Eolia Ada.
Judging criteria included punctuality (judged at the stadium), overall impact, creativity, originality, discipline and presentation, theme, performance, and craftsmanship for a total of 90 points. Criteria for chorography included performance, creativity, synchronization, cohesion, coordination of movement, timing, and impact on the public for a total 70 points.
Results of the parade will be presented at a later date. Carnival festivities will be officially launched on Friday, March 1, on the Marigot waterfront at 7:30pm.
