No rain, more praises and spirit-filled performances flooded the Claudette 'Boopie' Smith Festiville as hundreds attended the Gospel Fest staged by the Virgin Islands Heritage Month Committee last evening, July 26.
For the first time in years, the fest was staged uninterrupted by rain and organizers for the first time added a Latin flavour with a performance that featured Isabel Valdez from the Dominican Republic.
Gospel Fest at the Claudette 'Boopie' Smith Festiville on July 26, 2012
Photo Credit: Gordon French/BVI Platinum News
Gospel Fest at the Claudette 'Boopie' Smith Festiville on July 26, 2012
Photo Credit: Gordon French/BVI Platinum News
The fest opened with a rendition from the St. Williams Catholic Church choir, followed by performances from Joy Praise and the New Life Baptist Church choir.
By the time Valdez took to the stage, a sizable crowd had gathered, especially a noticeable Latino audience.
She performed all her songs in Spanish and occasionally relied on an interpreter to relate in English with the audience.
Trinidad and Tobago's Positive provided a reggae touch to the gospel show and shared his experience and journey serving God.
The feature artiste, Judith Gayle from Jamaica did not disappoint as she delivered an energetic performance. She ministered that she was once a secular singer making music with dancehall icon Lady Saw and performing at hotels across Jamaica, but she gave up all that came with fame and followed Christ.
Gayle said that the devil tried to get her down and she faced challenges of homelessness, sickness and an accident, but she was still alive to testify about the grace of God.
Activities in the Claudette 'Boopie' Smith Festiville continue this evening. Saturday evening is the first paid night and activities include the opening ceremony to be followed by the much anticipated calypso competition.
