Paula Lindo – Our histories, stories, present, future.

Designer Brian MacFarlane said his production “Christmas Joy 2015” is the result of his deep appreciation and joy for the season. He said he wanted to produce a show that focused on the very traditional aspects of the season, with classic Christmas music.

MacFarlane said he wants to give back to the community and will be hosting two charity shows for the young and the elderly “The very meaning of Christmas is giving and sharing and it is very important to me that this gift of creativity that I have been blessed with be passed on and shared with others. There are two day shows, one on Saturday which is specially staged for senior citizen’s homes sponsored by Novo International, and Living Water will assist in coordinating the different homes. The one on Sunday will cater to orphanages and underprivileged kids sponsored by PCS Nitrogen and United Way will assist in organising the various homes also. At this point I will very much like to thank Novo International and PCS Nitrogen for making this incredible dream a reality.”
Proceeds for the show will be going towards the purchase of an apheresis machine, MacFarlane said, “which is needed in T&T, which I became aware of 5 years ago when I tried to assist a 10-year-old boy called Satish Deonarine, who had suffered some five heart-attacks. Unfortunately Satish passed away, but I made a promise to his mother and Dr. Singh who works sick children at the Just Because Foundation that I would work towards raising the funds to purchase this particular piece of equipment that could have saved Satish’s life and so many others who suffer with various blood diseases.”
MacFarlane said his creative vision for the show is “to bring whims and fantasies to life, through a combination of elements that evoke emotion and excitement, and spark the human senses. This will evolve through the use of dramatic stage sets and lighting, powerful and dynamic voices, and electrifying musicians.” He said the show has been in planning for the last three years and he knew he had to bring on board the very best talent and professionals that the country has to offer in the various fields of the industry.
MacFarlane said this is a departure from his usual shows which focus on his connection of his local culture, as evidenced in his Carnival productions as well as the year round events he is involved in. His previous Christmas productions include Miracle at Stollmeyers Castle in 1989 which was a great success and was awarded 4 Cacique Awards, 1993, as well as Night before Christmas at Queen’s Hall.
The concert will bring to life the message of peace and joy to all people for the Christmas season, with 25 performances by celebrated artistes including Marlon De Bique, Llettesha Sylvester, Raymond Edwards, Wendell Constantine, Wendy Sheppard, Rosezanna Winchester, John Thomas, Nigel Floyd, Edward Cumberbatch, Marvin Smith, Stephanie Nahous, Kevon Carter, Stefan Roach and Anne Fridal.
The show begins on Thursday November 12 and continues to Sunday November 15.