It’s not just calypsonians, steelbands and masquerade bandleaders who dig deep to dream up innovative approaches to propel the carnival to the pinnacle of success. The organisers of Spice Mas are also saddled with the arduous task of being ingenious, of demonstrating imagination, of producing a world class extravaganza that meets the tastes of a fastidious local audience, and the adventure-seeking, budget-conscious holiday-maker from other parts of the Caribbean, North America and Europe.

Grenada has two of its best cultural enthusiasts spearheading the planning of Spice Mas 2009.  Arley Gill, a lawyer, is the Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, and the government’s point man in this year’s carnival preparations.  University administrator Colin E. Dowe, a cultural commentator and calypso judge, is head of the Spice Mas organising committee. View the List of Grenada Carnival Committee Members

There are novel events for 2009.  Senator Gill and Mr. Dowe are coy about the precise details, only dropping broad hints that “something is being planned for Morne Rouge in the south of the island.’’ They also disclose that they are “well advanced in exploring the possibility of doing something special in the parishes outside of St. George.’’

When the final schedule of events for Spice Mas 2009 is released, Senator Gill promises that it will be a wonderful program.

“We guarantee to every Grenadian and every visitor to Spice Mas 2009,’’ said Mr. Gill, “that it will be an exhilarating and exciting showcase they are not likely to forget.’’

Mr. Dowe, for his part, says the final program will ensure that “from north to south, east to west, in all corners, in every parish, the carnival spirit is experienced and enjoyed.’’

There is an abundance of pleasurable activities during Spice Mas to tempt the epicurean to over-indulge.  However, for the sojourner who must leave after August 11, tarry a moment longer for a bit of Grenadian therapy and convalescence.  Nothing will soothe your pain and take care of your carnival binging more fittingly than swimming on the famous Grand Anse or on one of the several other beaches scattered across Grenada.

However, if you would like to “get away’’ but still delight in Grenada, take a short plane ride or travel by boat to Carriacou and Petite Martinique, which are part of the nation-state of Grenada.  You will first land on Carriacou, which is relatively quiet but stunningly beautiful and steeped in African cultural traditions.

An intrinsic part of life in Carriacou is the island’s inveterate bond with Africa, vividly portrayed in drumming and dancing. Dance – with the Big Drum taking priority – is pivotal to all communal activities, including boat launching ceremonies. The people of Carriacou are also distinctive for musical commentaries that are sung in French Creole, or English interspersed with African phrases.

Nevertheless, whatever you do after Carnival Monday and Tuesday, August 10 and 11, do not leave without contacting Senator Gill, Mr. Dowe and the Ministry of Culture to find out more about Grenada’s cultural calendar of events, even about Spice Mas 2010.  Call 473-435-2839 or visit the web at www.spicemasgrenada.com

Article By Lincoln Depradine

Photos Provided by Joshua Yetman