QUEEN'S PARK WAS an appropriate setting for participating in family-based activities on the Crop-Over calendar.

Those small numbers who attended the BNB Heritage Gala hosted by the National Cultural Foundation last Saturday were able to experience such, taking in the many sights, sounds and scents of the season.

From the roving tuk band rhythms of Rose Hill Tuk Band, Ifie's Moko Jumbies and Pan Roun De Neck to donkey rides, a variety folk concert, Mobile Cinema along with exhibitions exploring the history of rum and sugar, Afrocentric displays, traditional artisans - including blacksmiths, tanners, fishnet makers and the like, the affair aimed to be as entertaining as it was insightful.

Classical craft booths and culinary delicacies were main features of the open-air event, enhanced by a heritage dress competition, dance and drama presentations and a musical concert entitled the Sweetness Concert, showcasing some of the popular acts of the Crop-Over music scene from Timmy, Kid Site, Mr Dale, Khiomal and Strategy. Performances by Sister Marshall and Tony "Poser" Grazette were also well received. (MS)