Melann Kahle’s Academy of Performing Arts
Brings you

"Nature's Little Secrets!"

This summer, MAKING A SCENE arrived on the scene of the magical island of Tortola, British Virgin Islands…an idyllic paradise, blessed with natural beauty and steeped in history. In lieu of a postcard, we bring you this photo story report of the 50th Anniversary of the Emancipation Festival 2004, which commemorates freedom from slavery, dating back to August 4th, 1834. This year marks 170 years for this significant event in the island's history, and Reverend Jesse Jackson was on hand for the festivities. The festival celebrates the rich, cultural history and diversity of the Caribbean and includes several weeks of various activities such as pageantry, water sports, parades, torch light processions, and horse racing. We were embraced by the warm-hearted, friendly, and helpful people of the Caribbean, and asked to share their revelry with you. Enjoy these photos of the scenic views and Festival Parade, and you will quickly see why the island is fondly nicknamed, “Nature’s Little Secrets!”

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Performers on stilts, called, "Moko Jumbies," delight the crowd at the parade.
Incredible panoramas can be seen from higher elevations on the island.		Authentic Native costumes were a focal point at the event.
A lot of time, imagination, and skill went into making this eye-popping costume.		The Festival celebrates the cultural history and diversity of the BVI.
These island beauties welcomed our cameras.		Donkeys were a primary mode of transportation in the past.
Breathtaking views can be seen from every point of the island.		A junior troupe of performing "Moko Jumbies" are directed by their leader.
Pageant winners graced the parade with their beauty and style.		A spectator gets into the peaceful island spirit.
Previous Miss British Virgin Islands were interviewed by the media and MAKING A SCENE!		The sweet, musical sounds of fungi, calypso, and steel bands played continuously.
Pristine, secluded beaches are idyllic playgrounds for fun in the sun.		This elaborate float showcases the lush flora and fauna found on the islands.
This marina is postcard perfect.		Some troupe leaders wear elaborate walking floats attached to their costumes.
The parade boasts a colorful array of creative and well-engineered costumes.		This feathery display is the stuff dreams are made of.
The performers pulsated rhythmically for several hours through Road Town.		This troupe performed a show-stopping authentic tribal presentation.