By Stephen Weir

The Toronto Revellers had a successful and well-attended adult band launch last month. Now, their Eglinton Avenue Mas Camp is abuzz preparing for this month’s children’s band launch. The event is a fashion show for youngsters who want to take part in the annual Junior Carnival Parade. On stage, there will be dozens of young Revellers models showing off all the costumes the band will be wearing on July 20th in the huge Kiddies parade held in Scarborough.

The Junior Carnival Parade will be held at Malvern Community Centre. The Masqueraders will march in colorful Caribbean costumes along the west side of McLevin Ave. and north on Neilson Rd. towards the Junior Carnival Central at Neilson Park. This event is free to all spectators. Children wishing to take part on the road must purchase a costume and join a Mas “band.”

“Join us on May 19th at 4 PM for a vibrant showcase of youthful spirit and cultural pride at our Junior Band Launch,” read the invitation sent out by former NBA star Jamaal Magloire, the leader of the Toronto Revellers mas band. “Witness our young masqueraders present a show of dazzling costumes that pay tribute to GAIA, the embodiment of Earth’s beauty and resilience.”

Never heard of Gaia? You are not alone. The mythical Gaia was an ancient Greek goddess symbolizing the Earth, and the Greek version of “Mother Nature” (from Ge = Earth, and Aia = PIE grandmother). Experience a burst of color as each performer takes to the stage! The 2-hour show and party begins at 4 PM, and it all takes place at the Scarborough mas camp located at 2206 Eglinton Ave East.”