CARIBBEAN FOOD SHOWCASE

Braata Productions on Tuesday announced this year’s Caribites, showcasing some tasty delectables of Caribbean food.

The free event will take place on Saturday, June 24 at 1:00 p.m. at the Culture Lab LIC, 5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City, NY.

“Picture yourself sitting on the most picturesque, postcard-worthy beach of your favorite Caribbean island in a gentle shimmer of sunshine and soft tropical breeze skimming your skin,” said Braata Productions in a statement. “Your cooler is packed to the brim with an assortment of flavorful juices and other drinks, with a hefty and layered picnic basket of the most deliciously aromatic Caribbean foods.

“Smell that? Taste that? Good,” it added. “Now, while Braata might not be able to bring the entire beach, but we do intend to immerse you in an experience of Caribbean culinary delights and entertainment that will make this a summer to remember.

“We will share some of the best of Caribbean eats and cultural treats from the entire region,” Braata Productions continued. “Come down to Long Island City with your loved ones, as we’ll have a beautiful time together with fun activities for the kids, DJ’s, live performances, and mouth-watering meals.”

Make a reservation at: https://www.betterunite.com/BraataProductions-caribites2023 or call (917) 668-2209 for more information.

Braata Productions said Caribites 2023 is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Gov. Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

This program is also partially supported by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in Partnership with the New City Council and Councilwoman Julie Won, with additional support from the Howard Gilman Foundation.

Andrew Clarke is the executive director of Braata Productions, and Karl O’Brian Williams is artistic director.

Braata Folk Singers perform in September 2022 during the Guyana Cultural Association’s Folk Festival at the Old Boys & Girls High School Grounds in Brooklyn.  Photo by Nelson A. King 

Braata Productions said Braata is a Jamaican colloquial term meaning “more”, “which is what this company aspires to do – give its supporters and audiences something more at all times.”

Started by actor/singer Clarke in May 2009, Braata Productions said its goal “has always been to provide entertainment and education to our patrons, and give voice to diverse experiences, performers, writers and directors plus bring Caribbean folk culture, music movement, stories, artists and theatre to the United States.

“Braata aims to authentically represent the culture of the Caribbean islands and to prioritize cultivating and re-telling Caribbean stories and legends for generations to come,” Braata Productions said. “Braata is dedicated to giving Caribbean and Caribbean-American artists a platform through which to showcase their work and talents.

“Braata seeks to define its position as one of the leading performing arts organizations in New York City,” it added. “We maintain strong ties to the community and have a reputation for artistic excellence, educational innovation and fiscal responsibility.”

Allowing immigrants’ voices a chance for creative expression, Braata Productions said its principal activities include theatre, music and folk arts, in addition to education and community outreach.

It said these activities take it on engagements outside of the five boroughs of New York City to Connecticut, Rochester, and Boston, among other places.

“Braata’s goal is to rekindle an appreciation for Caribbean culture and heritage amongst Caribbeans and non-Caribbeans alike by engaging community members in New York and surrounding areas,” Braata Productions said.

In its brief history, Braata Productions said its projects and programs have served over 350 artists, directors, designers, technicians and young entrepreneurial artists.

The cultural group also said it has “enjoyed many successes” including the creation of The Braata Folk Singers; Braata Education & Outreach, titled Project BE; Braata Theatre Workshop and The “Braata” Award.