On March 19, the UNB Saint John African Caribbean Society (ACS) held it’s annual showcase and dinner event, titled Afrorevive.
Over 160 people attended the evening event featuring dishes and live entertainment focused on African and Caribbean culture.
“This was the best club event I’ve been to this year,” says Kjeld Conyers-Steede, who is responsible for clubs on campus as the current vice president student affairs of the Students Representative Council.
Billed as a night to come out and experience a different cultural vibe for those not indigenous to the regions and a nostalgic escapade for those who are, Afrorevive did not disappoint.
Grand Hall was decked out, complete with a red carpet entrance, tables centred with bouquets and the walls adorned with flags from various African and Caribbean nations.
The night was hosted by Uche Udeh (left) and Tunji Lawal (right) who kept the crowd laughing and the mood light-hearted while introducing the many acts and performances.
Dancers from the ACS society progressed from the back of the room through the rows of tables to take their place at centre stage where they wowed the crowd with a short performance.
There was a skit about a farmer trying to protect his crops from thieves, musical performances from Mwila Mubanga another skit entitled “Mr. Soldier,” about a soldier trying to used his power and influence in making advances on a girl to no avail.
A powerful poem was recited by Dorita Dickson, secretary of the society, chastising the declining morals of African men and women, and loss of cultural heritage.
There was a musical rendition of Get the Money by host, Lawal, and the night was capped off with a multicultural fashion show representing different styles of dress from African and Caribbean nations.
President of the ACS, Sherif Salaam, was pleasantly surprised by the turn out. “We didn’t expect this many people,” with all the seats filled and standing room only by the end of the night.
Salaam also extended thanks to Chartwells who catered the event. “They produced the dishes just as we asked, and everything turned out well.”
The ACS had been planning this event since the start of September and it is their main event of the year.
