Royalty Masquerade Ball in Brooklyn raises funds for Caribbean women's health
Trinidad-born promoter Donna Bridgeman hosted the Jeweled Royalty ball at Marine Park Golf Course, with part of the proceeds going to the Caribbean Women Health Association.
NEW YORK, United States. The Sssilentpartners Royalty Masquerade Ball returned on September 19 to the Marine Park Golf Course on Flatbush in Brooklyn, extending the Caribbean carnival season with an evening of costumes, masks and music.
Hosted by Trinidad-born promoter Donna Bridgeman, this year's ball carried the title Jeweled Royalty. Women came dressed as Egyptian goddesses and belles of the ball, while men wore period costumes, many with masks recalling the Phantom of the Opera.
The event focused on wellness, with part of the proceeds going to the Caribbean Women Health Association.
Guests and entertainment
Guests included Roger V. Archibald, president of the West Indian American Day Carnival Association, founding member Angela P. Sealy and fashion designer Patterson Nelson.
The evening opened with a set by New York-based saxophonist Davishmar during the cocktail hour, before Bridgeman made her entrance in an olive-green ensemble titled The Royal Enhancement, made from taffeta with three detachable pieces.
She danced to Nomcebo Zikode's "iZono Zami", a song she said connects to her inner spirit.
"My inspiration for Sssilentpartner Masquerade Ball Royalty is to keep the memory alive that we, people of colour, are the original Kings and Queens, and by celebrating our royalty, we are collectively giving back to our community," Bridgeman said.
Veteran emcee Emile "Mr. Voice" Gittens hosted the programme, and performer Richard Burton sang a medley of soca songs including "Sweet T&T".
Community awards and prizes
New York City Council Member Chris Banks presented certificates to community stalwarts, and citations from Assemblyman Brian Cunningham's office went to Patricia John, Yvette Rennie, Fly Down and Pazzazz All Access.
Bridgeman thanked her production team, including manager Gary Pierre, Arlene Kingston, Joanne Duglin, Curt Gonzales, Ken Thompson, Aashlyie Gonzalez and Kryston Gonzales.
In the best-dressed competition, Conroy Jack won first prize of $300, Ingrid took second place and $200, and Roulette Brown won third place and $100. Three consolation prizes of $50 were also awarded, and three gifts went to first-time attendees.
