The Bank of Guyana presented Fashion Extravaganza last Saturday, 20 October 2012 at the Theatre Guild. The celebration was held in honour of the Bank’s 47th Anniversary and featured designs from three local designers and performances by some of our very gifted local ladies.
The show began with the colourful and very jovial designs by Sha Sha Designs’, Keisha Edwards. The line called Summer Fun featured pieces that screamed cosiness, fun and excitement.
It was kind of hard to distinguish the seasoned models from the Bank of Guyana models because they all moved like professionals. Who knew Central Bank had all that talent, but more importantly who knew that they were interested and very willing to support local talent? The evening’s extravaganza is testimony of the Bank’s attentiveness and readiness to promote local talent.
The almost packed Theatre Guild was serenaded by two of Guyana’s most remarkable singers. They were both given much exposure during this year’s Jamzone Summer Break and it was pleasing to see them both appearing at Central Bank’s Fashion Extravaganza. Lisa Punch treated the audience to two of her very own songs, Secret Admirer and How We Party; the latter inspired by her three year old brother. She has a captivating voice (and will one day grow up to make millions).
The next designer to present her pieces was Patricia Helwig. Her line called Ethnic Fusion featured an eccentric mix of ethnic clothing for both men and women. Her African pieces were displayed with suitable head wraps to match. So if ever you’re looking for exquisite African pieces and/or head wraps, Mrs. Helwig is the woman to contact. Jackie Hanover is the second exceptional singer I alluded to earlier. She’s a screamer, but her notes are constantly on point and Adele and Etta James would both be very pleased to know that she sings their songs brilliantly.
A special appearance was made by Miss Guyana Universe, Ruquayyah Boyer who treated the audience to her spoken word piece which speaks to social issues affecting society.
The final designer to showcase her pieces was Zarinah Hameed with a line called Natural Mystic. Her line is a synthesis of cultural and contemporary designs. She caters for both men and women and outfits for any occasion.
The evening wasn’t just modelling and singing, the audience was also treated to an enthralling interpretative piece by two dancers from the Classique Dance Company.
And to end the show, Keisha Edwards got another chance to wow the crowd with more pieces from Sha Sha Designs. The event though dubbed a Fashion Extravaganza featured much more than just fashion – outstanding, laudable, Guyanese talent was on display.
The very lively Mondale Smith was the MC for the event.
Kudos to the Bank of Guyana for coordinating this event, the performers and designers for providing the entertainment and the audience for celebrating with the Bank! Evening well spent.
By Schemel Patrick