The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) says top Caribbean artistes are gearing up to bring the rhythm of the Caribbean to Times Square this week when the CTO hosts its first Caribbean Cultural Showcase.
CTO said on Friday, May 30, that Dominica’s headliners include Asa Bantan, the dynamic Bouyon music ambassador; Marie-Claire Giraud, the internationally acclaimed jazz and opera singer; and the US-based Know Your Culture Dance group.
Two top St. Lucian artistes — Motto, the high-energy soca sensation, and regional soca powerhouse Teddyson John — are also featured.
CTO said additional performers include Kenyo Baly, the soulful singer from Saint-Martin, and Wukkout!, the high-energy New York–based soca dance fitness experience.
A signature addition to Caribbean Week in New York (CWNY) 2025, the Cultural Showcase takes place on Thursday, June 5, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Westin New York at Times Square.
“This immersive celebration will feature live performances, culinary delights, vibrant artistic displays, exclusive travel offers, and opportunities to win trips to Caribbean destinations,” CTO said.
It said the Legendary Supreme Team will set the musical tone for the evening, with confirmed highlights including Grenada’s traditional Jab Jab and ShortKnee performers and a Jamaican fashion show.
CTO said participating destinations include Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and Saint-Martin, with Sandals Resorts International also set to participate.
This year’s Showcase also marks the 20th anniversary of TEMPO Networks, the groundbreaking Caribbean media brand launched during Caribbean Week in 2005.
“TEMPO’s continued presence underscores the powerful connection between Caribbean culture, media, and tourism,” the CTO said.
Frederick A. Morton, Jr., founder and CEO of TEMPO Networks, said: “As TEMPO Networks celebrates 20 extraordinary years of elevating Caribbean culture, music, and lifestyle to the world, I am both humbled and deeply grateful for the journey.”
He said partnering once again with CTO for Caribbean Week is especially meaningful, “as it brings us full circle — back to where it all began with our unforgettable launch concert at the South Street Seaport in 2005.
“This milestone is not only a testament to the strength and beauty of Caribbean people and culture but also to the power of unity, vision, and persistence,” Morton, Jr. said. “The best is yet to come.”
Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO’s secretary-general and CEO, said: “We are pleased to partner with TEMPO on our Caribbean Cultural Showcase.
“This event is a joyful reminder of our region’s vibrancy and resilience – celebrating who we are through music, food, art, and shared community,” she added.
Held under the theme “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism,” the CTO said CWNY 2025 features “a dynamic schedule of events,” including a Media Marketplace, Caribbean Media Awards, and educational sessions on sustainable tourism development.
A highlight of the week will be a special Orange Economy discussion featuring Morton, Jr.; Asa Bantan; Motto; Louis Lewis, CEO of the St. Lucia Tourism Authority; and other regional thought leaders.
The session will be moderated by media maven Vanessa James of VJMedia.
