Byron Lee arrives for three concerts
Like hurricanes, potholes and political infighting, Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires seem to be a permanent part of life in the Caribbean. Today, despite the uncertainty of international air travel, Byron and company made their familiar march across the apron of the Philip Goldson International Airport. Jacqueline Woods was on hand to greet them.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
It will be Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires’ sixth performance in Belize since the band started coming here for the September celebrations. The members’ say it’s nice to be back in the country after being absent from last year’s festivities.
Oscar B., Lead Vocalist, Byron lee and the Dragonnaires
“I really miss coming to Belize you know. When it’s on the calendar and you didn’t show up, it’s really heartfelt that you miss Belize.”
The band will be holding three concerts; one each in Belize City, San Pedro Ambergris Caye and Cayo.
Silvana Woods, Local Agent, Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires
“I must say at the City Centre this year on the twentieth, you want to get your tickets early because the last time the show was so crowded, it was over sold practically. We had problems at the gates with people pushing; that will not happen this year. There are three entrances, your advance sales this time as an incentive is ten dollars cheaper.”
Byron Lee
“When we play a tune we don’t just play the tune, we have a act around it. So we have ten from last year and twelve from this year; that’s twenty-two. Plus, we have six dances, brand new, and we have two new faces, Audra, the girl and “Jumo” the rubber waist. The girls want to die, they will actually crawl over him.”
Jacqueline Woods
“This is why they call this guy the rubber waist. Let’s see.”
“Jumo”, Entertainer, Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires
“Just look here (points to waist) and this is how I say good morning to ladies.” (wines waist)
Audra Perez, Singer, Byron lee and the Dragonnaires
“You are to expect energy, sensuality. I’m gonna be moving my waist as well. Bring your rags, your flags. Come out to have a good time, enjoy the variety of music that Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires play, from ages sixteen to sixty. We play for all different kinds of people and it’s just a pleasure for me being in this band, a legendary band such a Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires that has been around for over forty-two years. Number one band in the Caribbean, it’s a phenomenal experience.”
The band says you should expect non-stop entertainment at all shows. As they put it, there won’t be anytime to sit down.
Oscar B.
“We bring a lot aerobics to Belize. It’s like a soca-aerobics night, the soca vibes, a lot of aerobics, lot of hype, lot of up down movement, it’s going to be good.”
Reporting for News Five Jacqueline Woods.
Tickets are already on sale at various record outlets. Price is thirty-five dollars in advance for the concerts at the City Centre and Cayo and fifty dollars for the show in San Pedro. Byron Lee will also be conducting a seminar on copyright Wednesday morning at the House of Culture and will be signing autographs at the Angelus Press tomorrow.
