By Stephen Weir
What a fifteenth celebration it was for Will Morton on Sunday night in Scarborough! The veteran carnival mas designer held his fifteenth annual costume launch for the Fantazia Carnival Mas Band!
Fantazia is led by Hamilton’s Will Morton, “Designer Extraordinaire,” hailing from the Caribbean Island of Nevis. Will, who has at all times had a ardour for designing and creating artwork, started his carnival journey by volunteering on the Louis Saldenah Mas-Ok Membership earlier than debuting his first part in 1987. Over time, he has labored with a number of bands, in the end founding Fantazia 15 years in the past.
The doorways opened for the anniversary launch at 3 pm on the banquet corridor, and the precise band launch started at 7:30 pm. Over 100 carnival followers and members of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival’s Competition Administration Committee’s government got here to St. Peter and Paul’s Banquet Corridor to witness the launch of the outfits that Fantazia Carnival revellers might be sporting on the Grande Parade route this August third.
“This 12 months, we’re not simply showcasing costumes; we’re celebrating the myriad tales and vibrant cultures that weave the material of our neighborhood,” mentioned Michelle B. “We launched 7 sections on Sunday night.”
With names like White Diamonds, Orange Sapphire, and Blue Aura, the seven sections observe Fantazia’s 2024 theme of “Uncut Gemz.” The designs, starting from oh-la-la skimpy to horny full-figured, provide one thing for each physique form and private style. These costumes, accessible for each men and women, come at a price starting from the $300s to $1100.
Because the Caribbean Digital camera went to press, Morton’s group was busy posting footage from the launch, together with costs, on their web site. They’ll quickly announce the situation of their mas camp the place parade contributors can come out, see the costumes up shut, and signal as much as be a part of the parade this summer time.
