National Song Competition and Pan Yaad Rock the Old Capital

Tonight we’ll look back at the weekend’s celebration activities, including the Belize National Song Competition 2023 and the annual Pan Yaad Concert.  Here’s that story.

Celebrating the cultural diversity of Belize through music and dance was the highlight of this weekend’s activities, beginning with the annual National Song Competition on Friday.  This year, eight finalists were chosen to compete for the coveted prize and the performances did not disappoint.

Of the musicians who took the stage at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts, one would emerge victorious.  It’s a face many are familiar with, having made a name for herself right here on Channel Five.  In the end, Marilyn Vansen took home the twenty thousand dollar award.

Marilyn Vansen

Raphael Martinez

“Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of the Belize National Song Competition for 2023 goes to none other than Ms. Marilyn Vansen…  and apart from her cash prize, she also won herself a beautiful trophy courtesy of the National Celebrations Commission.”

On Saturday night, the excitement of Belizean music shifted over to the House of Culture where several steel bands from across the country took part in the 2023 Pan Yaad concert, a showcase of steel pan music.

Isani Cayetano for News Five.