Canadian based Guyanese and other theatre enthusiasts from the Caribbean Diaspora and Canada are receiving a sample of CARIFESTA and at the same time contributing to the Canadian contingent's participation in CARIFESTA X with the premiere of "Sweet, Sweet Karaila."
Based on the 1958 prize-winning Guyanese radio play "Sweet Karaila" by the late Dr. Victor Forsythe, the play was adapted for stage by Guyanese playwright Leon Saul.
According to the organizers of the production, it is a gripping but comedic tale of two Guyanese families the "Herod’s" from Buxton and the "Samaroo's" from Lusignan, as told by village elder and raconteur "Uncle John John". The story reveals how Det. Sergeant Liverpool Fennimore a police officer from Buxton, who has just been married to Rhoda Herod, is tested before and after his marriage by the recent massacres in Guyana.
The play is also described as a bitter-sweet tale of patriotism and the sacrifice of a loved one while doing duty to protect the family, community and nation. Its consulting director is Marvin Ishmael while Ryan Singh is director. Cast members include Trevor Murray, Eli Goree, Ras Leon, Jem Hewitt, Nikki Green, T.J. McLaughlin, and Sandra Maharaj. It also features Mandela Mannings, Samantha Mohabir, Sam Khera, Brad Jordan, Wendy Belcourt, Paul Chanderbhan, Patrick Augustus, Rosina Noel and Jason Roberts. The soundtrack is by Ras D'Jango.
"Sweet, Sweet Karaila" will come to Guyana for CARIFESTA as part of the Canadian contingent's participation in the performing arts element of the festival.
