Braata ‘Still Standing Remount’

New York-based cultural group Braata Singers, which has been in existence for the past 15 years, has a big date in Brooklyn, hosting “Still Standing Remount” on Oct. 26 at Holy Family Auditorium, 9719 Flatlands Ave., entrance on Conklin Avenue, in Brooklyn.

Jamaican-born founder and producer Andrew Clarke told Caribbean Life on Monday that the performance will showcase the infusion of fresh elements in the ensemble.

“After the pandemic, I saw the need for a change. We added what we call an inspirational suite to the show,” he said. “Prior to that, the show was mostly made up of folk music.

“I knew that, on the heels of the shutdown, loss of friends and depression that some suffered through, we needed inspiration; and so, gospel songs were added,” Clarke added. “In times of trouble, we often turn to a higher power for help, upliftment and answers. Songs can be a great vehicle for that.”

He said that new members were added from other islands, beyond Jamaica, to include Haiti, Grenada, Dominica, and Trinidad and Tobago, “which will serve up a cornucopia of Caribbean cultures.

“The music is rich in all the elements that make up the contemporary tapestry of the Caribbean – inspirational gospel, soca, dancehall, reggae and Kompas,” Clarke said.

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, file

At the Holy Family Auditorium, Clarke said Braata Singers “will present a mesmerizing concert experience that pays tribute to the captivating cultures and the rich musical traditions of Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Haiti.”

He disclosed that the group has just returned from a “well-received maiden performance in Florida, over two shows, for the Louise Bennett Heritage Council, as they celebrated Jamaica’s folk hero, Ms. Lou’s 105th birthday at ‘Ring Ding & Ting concert.’

“The group was met with extended applause and standing ovation,” said Clarke, adding that Braata Singers also debut it 15th season Off Broadway “to rave reviews from critics and audiences alike.”

He said the final weekend in the 14-show-run was sold out.

Looking ahead, Clarke expressed his desire to return to Broadway.

“Returning to Off Broadway for what will become a bi-annual concert season remains a priority for us,” he said. “We will also be taking some time to further strengthen our artistic output and ensure that we continue to present choral music of the highest caliber.

“My hope is that the group will be seen as the standard bearer for Caribbean choral music in the tri-state region and beyond”, Clarke added. “We want to be the pre-eminent group that reflects the wonderful diversity of the Caribbean.”