9 hours ago
2
Colour, creativity and the spirit of masquerade will take centre stage when Ohana Carnival Band brings its vibrant presentation to the streets of San Fernando for Carnival 2027.
Led by designer and bandleader Stacy Lee Ling, the new medium-sized band promises a captivating blend of mythical power, cultural heritage and dazzling costume artistry, inviting masqueraders to celebrate the season in style.
The presentation features four sections, each with its own identity and story: Seraphina – “Awaken the Celestial Flame”; Draconia – “Unleash the Primordial Power”; Meridian – “Navigate the Lines Where Sky Meets Sea”; and Legacy – “Rooted in History, Crowned in Gold”.
With an emphasis on movement, intricate detailing and vibrant designs, Ohana Carnival aims to deliver an experience that extends beyond the costumes. Through a collaboration with Lux Jouvert bandleader Saleem Mohammed, the band will offer revellers a full Carnival package, including Monday morning jouvert, Monday afternoon part-costume celebrations, Monday night mas and Tuesday mas.
For Lee Ling, the launch of Ohana Carnival represents the fulfilment of a long-standing passion.
“Carnival was something that was embedded in me for as long as I could remember because my mother was a production employee at one of our legendary, still-existing bands in San Fernando.”
She said Ohana Carnival Band was born on Ash Wednesday 2026, after five years as a section leader.
She explained that she wanted to create a presentation that reflected her own vision and allowed her to deliver the experience she envisioned for masqueraders and spectators.
“Ohana means family; family means nobody gets left behind.”
Lee Ling said her aim was to create a safe, family-oriented environment that catered to different age groups while maintaining an atmosphere of fun and creativity.
Her designs draw inspiration from Native American and Fancy Indian influences, reimagined with her own distinctive touch.
“Let’s be realistic: Carnival is liberation; every girl wants to garnish themselves in two pieces. I have created that split in my designs in the most modest way, in my opinion, respectful to Fancy Indian.”
She is particularly excited about the costumes’ flowing materials, moving aprons, intricate hand-beading and gemwork, which she believes will help the presentation stand out on the road.
However, bringing her vision to life has not been without challenges.
“Materials and funding—these are always two factors that create delays and make deadlines extend. I was able to overcome this so far by sourcing whatever I could from our local Carnival stores earlier than usual. I’m talking Thursday after Ash Wednesday because my brain was already ticking from the hype of Carnival fever and tabanca. Recycling, improvising, and I got it done.”
Beyond the costumes, the band plans to provide breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, drinks, local treats, synchronised music trucks, mobile bathroom facilities, a rest truck and security.
Lee Ling hopes her debut as an independent bandleader will inspire others to embrace fresh opportunities.
“This is my first year on my own, and I presented with everything I got … I want them to remember that there is always room for new beginnings, and as long as you have the confidence and determination to make a change and be different.”
Looking ahead, she hopes Carnival 2027 will bring greater recognition to San Fernando’s bands, better road management and improved coordination.
Her wish is for prizes beyond bragging rights and trophies, road marshals to improve the flow of bands, and participants to come out on time so everyone can celebrate together.
For Lee Ling, the message is simple: Carnival is about family, freedom, creativity and the courage to bring a fresh vision to the road.
English (US) ·