Virgin Islands showcases culture on Today Show
Headresses and carnival costumes take over TV studio
virginvoices.com staff
Television viewers were treated to the sights and sounds of the U.S. Virgin Islands on July 5 as the Department of Tourism brought the Territory’s Carnival flair to New York City for an exclusive national TV appearance on NBC’s Today Show.
The five-minute segment, devoted to promoting the Territory and its July 4 celebration in St. John aired during the 10 a.m. hour, reaching more than 2.5 million viewers.
Key elements of the USVI's culture featured on the show, included Quadrille and Carnival dancers courtesy of the Caribbean Ritual Dancers and steel pan music from the St. Thomas All Stars Steel Band.
Hosts Kathy Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb sported traditional USVI Carnival headdresses and received a personal dance lesson on-set from Diana Brown of the Department of Tourism. The group performed the Road March written by Fitzroy "Figgy" O'Garro.
USVI Commissioner of Tourism, Beverly Nicholson-Doty appeared on camera to introduce the performances and reinforce the ease of travel and accessibility for U.S. citizens by incorporating the Territory’s “no-passport required” message. The segment also underscored the Department’s commitment to showcasing the Territory’s distinct culture as a key marketing element for the destination beyond the natural beauty of its beaches.
The fourth hour of the Today Show airs nationally each weekday morning at 10 a.m. on NBC. The show sets the daily agenda for what Americans talk about in the office and by the “watercooler.” The hour is hosted by famed personalities Kathy Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb.
“We’re thrilled to showcase the destination and share a little bit of our culture with millions of Americans,” said Commissioner Nicholson-Doty. “This was the perfect way to remind Americans that we are a part of the U.S. and that we also have a special way of celebrating the 4th of July in the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
For many of the performers who traveled with the group, it was their first opportunity to share their talents with a national TV audience.
“Showcasing our culture was explosive and riveting!” remarked Rehenia Rabsatt, a Caribbean Ritual dancer.
Photo:Members of Caribbean Ritual Dancers and St. Thomas All Stars steel band on the set with Commsiioner of Tourism Beverly Nicholson-Doty.
Photos courtesy USVI Department of Tourism
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