After an eight-year hiatus, Grand Turk welcomes back TI Summajam, scheduled for June 23 through to June 25.
Rita Gardiner, the main organizer behind the event, said it was only fitting to have the event returned in the wake of bustling economic activities and physical development on that island.
“With the recent significant upswing in economic activities, development and activity, the island of Grand Turk is expected to be crowded to capacity later on in June this year with the return of the annual Grand Turk festival ‘T I Summajam’, Gardiner wrote.
TI Summajam is a three-day cultural event is geared to bring back the olden days of Grand Turk days, which according to Gardiner, is expected to be ‘dazzling’.
The occasion will features dynamic display of culture, music, talent, entertainment, island food/ drink, sporting competition and fun for all ages.
“Always with the central theme and driving force of the jamboree being strictly focused on discovering, recognizing, promoting, encouraging and holding up our very own local talent and youth.
This year’s Grand Turk Summajam Musical Awards will recognize and honour Grand Turk’s current and perhaps TCI’s Number One Live Band: “V 6 Band Boyz” and whilst still in its embryonic stages, will include, among others, the festival’s staple events,” Gardiner said.
The event also features the Miss Teen Grand Turk Pageant, with the winner representing that island next year’s Provo Day Festival, and possibly the Miss Universe Pageant later on, like many other contestants.
“The pageant coronation kick-will off with a motorcade of the contestants, which is slated to be followed by an after party.
There will also be a teen musician and teen talent show competition.
TI Summajam will also feature live performances by all Grand Turk local bands, artists and dee jays including V 6 Band, and
Nish and Da Boyz, also featuring the The West Road “Eat Mullets and Play Music Ripsaw Band”, the North Backsalina “One Donkey and Three Goats Ripsaw Band”, and a special overseas guest artist to be announced later.
Gardiner, Director of The Summajam Committee, says: “The organizers of the event, are particularly delighted about the return of this year’s legendary festival, as Grand Turk residents and visitors alike have been longing for some excitement in the Nation’s Capital, for several years and we are happy to provide that enjoyment once again.
“And of course, Summajam always gives back to the community and this year, part proceeds from the festival will be invested in the upgrading/ improvement of the North Backsalina Children’s Park.”
Gardiner is asking that young ladies interested in entering the Little Miss Grand Turk or Miss Grand Turk Pageants, as well as persons interested in participating in any of the Teen Talent Show/ competition should contact committee members, Brenda Lightbourne, Kandra Malcolm, Rosanna Henry, Latanya Gardiner or Rita Gardiner before April 29th.
Persons interested in donating or sponsoring in Summajam should contact Rita Gardiner at 231-0312.