The QRC Foundation pulled out all stops on Saturday to ensure that Outta de Blue XII, held at The Courtyard of Queen’s Royal College, St Clair was a success. Persistent showers, which began since Friday, eased up to allow patrons an enjoyable time. The party was attended by a virtual who’s who among local politicians and business people, popular artistes and sports personalities.
Guest of honour President George Maxwell Richards and his wife, Dr Jean Ramjohn-Richards did not attend. The Foundation pulled off a welcome surprise as the fete neared its end by announcing a performance by top soca band Caribbean Traffik Jam featuring vocalist Eddie Charles, an item which wasn’t previously announced or advertised.
There was an overflow of great music, including C2K11 hits, chutney soca, retro kaiso and soca, and even a session of pop and disco; Outta de Blue XII had it all. Aside from Caribbean Traffik Jam, also included on the bill were Roy Cape All Stars, Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars, Dil-e-Nadan, World Wide steelband, with vocalists Blaxx, Rita Jones, Olatunji, Shadow, Ronnie Mc Intosh, Devon Matthews, Benjai, Adesh Samaroo, Raymond Ramnarine, Dr Seales and Candy Hoyte.
Despite the muddy underfoot in the food court, pitched on the college football field, patrons used matting placed to wend their way to the numerous food stations that dotted the ground. As usual a big favourite was the Chinese cuisine done by Dune Ali and Rib House, and a spicy fish broth which served as a sobering elixir. For girl watchers Outta de Blue XII was a night of nirvana as women came out in their resplendent best. Overall, this was one of the better editions of Outta de Blue and the Foundation can justifiably take a bow. (PRB)
