aTP- Arab tourism portal- Telsy Production is the new company which has won the bid for the production of this year’s Carnaval International de Victoria. The Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) officially handed over the production of this year’s carnival during a press conference held at its headquarters ESPACE building in Victoria.
Speaking to journalists at the press conference, the Tourism Board’s chief executive Sherin Naiken said there were three companies that bid for the production of this year’s carnival but Telsy Production’s financial offer and concept were the best, thus the company was chosen.
Miss Naiken said Reunion island and South Africa will be co-hosts of the upcoming 2016 edition of the carnival, adding that many countries have already not only shown interest but some have confirm that they will be taking part in the three-day event held in Seychelles.
Speaking on the three-day event, Miss Naiken said new elements have been added this year to ensure that the carnival has something for all ages to enjoy.
One major change this year will be the route of the float parade on April 23. It will start at the Bois de Rose but instead of snaking down the Francis Rachel Street, the floats will parade on 5th June Avenue, down to Palm Street, Albert Street, Huteau Lane and finally to Manglier Street where the bigger floats will station.
Members of the public will get the chance to view the floats there and take photos. All will end at the Freedom Square where there will be a big party until late in the night.
Apart from Freedom Square, other venues where there will be entertainment will include the Waterfront park which will be a relaxing area with light music and several stalls, while the Stad Popiler in the heart of Victoria will be turned into a cultural village whereby members of the public will have a better chance to appreciate the various cultures of the world.
The director of Telsy Production Terry Carolla said for this carnival the idea is to bring forth elements of our culture and to showcase them to the world.
He added that our culture will also be showcased in the opening ceremony on April 22 which is set to be held at Stad Popiler. Mr Carolla said there will be several surprises during that ceremony and promises that it will be a colourful and vibrant show.
Miss Naiken said the focus this year will be on the theme of National Unity. She added that the monuments which are on the located on the new chosen route for the parade, will be showcased and be part of the décor to reflect the National Unity theme.
This year we want to put our other monuments in the glare of the international media as we have used only the clock tower during the past carnivals we have organised, she added.
Miss Naiken said Carnaval International de Victoria is used to bring nations together, to pass on the message of peace and harmony. And the same can apply at national level, thus the theme of national unity has been chosen.
Aside from the best local and international floats that will be awarded at the end of the three-day carnival fiesta, there will be a best effort category for government ministries.