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Gala time! 'Jamaica Rocks' with grand celebration

Published:Saturday | August 6, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Tivoli Dance Troupe performers going through their routine in preparation for the Grand Gala that will be held today at the National Stadium. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

THE MINISTRY of Culture is pulling out all the stops to ensure that today's Independence Grand Gala celebration provides an entertainment showcase to remember.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Olivia Grange says all of Jamaica's musical forms, including religious, mento, reggae, and dancehall, will be showcased in a programme dubbed 'Jamaica Rocks'.

"Jamaicans have come to expect an exciting Grand Gala programme as we reflect on nationhood, and we will deliver," said Grange.

She added that the Grand Gala at the National Stadium would be an exciting celebration of Jamaica's musical culture, as the nation marks 49 years of Independence.

The programme will feature traditional and popular entertainers, including 2,000 dancers from 12 inner-city communities in Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine.

The programme, which is divided into segments, will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a pre-show featuring cycling events, acrobatics and a sound clash.

The official programme begins at 5:30 p.m.