The concert entitled, “Celebration”, culminated the 40th Anniversary Calendar of Events which unfolded over the past year, under the theme, Vision, Resilience, Stability…Hallmarks of Our Journey.
According to Diana Williams-Humphrey, “The 40th anniversary celebratory activities provided National Bank with the perfect opportunity to give back to the communities that have supported us through the years. The National Bank staff is blessed with an abundance of talent and we thought it fitting to close our year of celebrations by showcasing that talent and treating the public to our lighter side. National Bank continues to give back as proceeds from the concert will go toward the St. Christopher Outreach Centre.”
The Rev. Dr. Wycherley Gumbs led the audience and participants in prayer and the National Bank Choir raised the roof in soulful song, giving thanks and praises to God.
In his opening remarks Ambassador Walford Gumbs, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said that he had always been thrilled at the array of talent, he had witnessed from National Bank, thereby heightening the anticipation for what was to come.
Following a thrilling opening fanfare, the National Bank Choir led by Pansyna Bailey, burst into song, serenading the audience with Gospel, Negro Spirituals, Nostalgia and Contemporary selections. The Choir was accompanied by Dr. Louisa Lawrence on keyboards and the band ‘Untitled’, led by Azem Bailey.
Other highlights were a riveting dance performance by Sudeakka Francis, the reigning Ms. Caribbean World, a provocative presentation by the National Bank Drum Corps and an informative dramatic portrayal of the progression of the Bank from 1971 to present, by Avonis Abraham and Sandra Richardson.
The audience was further thrilled when Gen X and Gen Y converged on stage and sashayed in original Caribelle Batik designs and pieces by local designer Shakki Heath.
One satisfied patron expressed that the level of the performances, high staff turnout and participation are testament to the staff’s commitment to the Bank. She also said that it was the most fun evening she had had in a long time.