The 56th celebration of Jamaica’s Annual Grand Gala Emancipation and Independence celebrations was held at the National Stadium on August 6th. The event was witnessed by a maximum capacity crowd and featured the music and culture of Jamaica with performances of local and international artistes who paid tribute to Jamaica, under the theme “One Love One Family”.

An important part of the commemorations was the presentations of commendation to musicians for promoting Jamaican music and culture across the world. The recipients were Richie Stephens, Strangejah Cole and Damian Marley, son of Bob Marley, who electrified the audience with their performances during the ceremony. Other performances were given by popular gospel artistes: Sister Pat, Shanchez, Tinga Stewart, Kukudoo, and Wayne Marshall with his mega hit “Glory to God” which caused the crowd to stand and give glory to god in song.

On display were the creations of Jamaica’s local designers and artists who at short notice were able to produce some memorable pieces; Kaydeen Dyrumple and Jerome Marshall were a couple of the contributors. Many thanks go out to the Artistic Director Trevor Nairne and his team from the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission.

Coat of Arms Costume: Designed by: Jerome Marshall/Kaydeen Dyrumple

Performance Highlighting the Jamaican WINDRUSH Era
The celebrations also gave more than 3,000 young performers from the inner-city communities across the island an opportunity to perform. This surely engendered a sense of pride within this young generations. Their performances emphasized the history and diversity of Jamaican culture. In spectacular costumes, choreographed with dance and music, they created memories at this year celebrations.
The event ended just after 10:00 p.m. with the much-anticipated display of fireworks.