Kandre McDonald, Freelance Writer

From left: Kimberly Gopie and Stephanie Brown (Digicel's Candy Girls) at the Bacchanal Carnival opening night at Mas Camp on Friday, January 18. - photos by Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

The beat emitting from Sparkles Disco speakers projected well beyond the boundaries of the Mas Camp Village, Oxford Road, last Friday night.

Now celebrating 20 years, the Bacchanal team once again invaded the Oxford Road venue for Bacchanal Fridays, under the theme 'Bacchanal Dreams - Dreams Come True'.

Still there was not much to dream about, as it was obvious from the crowd's lack of energy that the opening night of the two-month long Friday nights carnival celebration was tame, despite a very good turnout.

Hype and anticipation

Initially one could sense the usual hype and anticipation that surround Bacchanal Fridays. The patrons found parking spaces in tight crevices and corners, and even disobeyed a few 'no parking' signs to get inside.

However, the failure of Bacchanal Dreams to inspire came from some lacklustre selection from the Sparkles selector. The selection was all over the place and with a limited musical soca/calypso catalogue.

There was also the case where the selector played too many new and unfamiliar songs that brought the Bacchanal massive to a standstill, something that is an aberration in revelry.

Standing still

Patrons at the front of the stage area danced wildly and enthusiastically whenever the music pleased them, however, those in the middle and back, simply stood still.

Persons in the VIP lounge did not dance much, however they were treated to more than just the music and exceptional drink prices to which 'regulars' were treated.

There was food, all inclusive beverages and little trinkets that added to the carnival experience.

The selection along the home stretch, leading to the usual 2 a.m. lock-off, still lacked the vital carnival ingredients that really get patrons going.

Although the musical selection was not on par, one could still take heart from the fact that the season is young and over time, the carnival experience should mature and make all Bacchanal fans' 'dreams come true'.

Jacqueline Smith travelled all the way from Atlanta with her cane for this one. No injury could stop this party animal at the Bacchanal Carnival opening night.