Media Release, pics by Jerson Marques , Canada
Canada, May 30 : The Konkani art, culture and tradition lovers of Canada were in for a memorable treat as their hearts were captivated by the scintillating performance by the famous Konkani play writer and actor, Comedy King, Francis Fernandes(Cascia) and many other local singers, musicians, performers and comedians at the PCSS Auditorium, Mississauga, on the 8th annual Canara Kala Saanz held on May 27th 2012.
The show began with the singing of the anthem of Canada by Nicole and Narissa D'Mello, followed by the national anthem of India by the group.
Gerry D'mello, with his group gave a fitting introduction to the cultural night by singing his own composition "Kala Saanz". Thereafter a host of talented local artists kept the auditorium comprising of Mangaloreans, Konkanas, Maharashtrians, Goans, East Indians and local Canadians, spell bound for over three hours.
Young Seneca Rego brought back the memories of Firguz Festan with her song "Festak Ghellolim". Shannon Pias entertained the crowd with her breath taking dance performance. The young and budding talents Nerissa D'Mello, Nicole D'Mello and Manorah Pais won the hearts of audience through their magical voice. The teen sensation was Linton Pinto who rocked the stage with his Konkani version of "Kola Veri". The excitement was pulpable when the local artists Gerry D'Mello, Manohar Pais, Oscar Nazareth, Anita Prabhu, Lara Rebello, and Sonia Monteiro stole the thunder with their electrifying performance. The exceptionally talented band of musicians, Oliver & Ian Sequeira, Neil Vas & Tony Pinto of "Amchem Noxib & Nirmon" fame left the audience on their seats edge, ready to dance. Music was coordinated and orchestrated by Oliver Sequeira.
There was never a dull moment as Donald Alva and Flavian Pinto compered the show adding some flair and laughter with their subtle and crisp Konkani humour.
Local comedians Flavian Pinto, Ronald Monteiro, Max Mendes, &Nancy Mendes made their appearance at regular intervals and entertained the audience between performances with some really hilarious comedy.
Paul Mathias honored the recipients of 2012 Excellence in Education Award in honour of Late Rose & Henry Castelino. In the junior category award was bagged by Lawrentina D'Souza and presented by Ingrid Pereira and the senior category was awarded to Nikita D'Mello by Irene Mathias.
Oswald Sequeira was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition for his valuable contribution and ongoing service to konkani culture and traditions. Nancy Mendes in her speech highlighted Oswald's role in the historical Konkani film, Mog Ani Maipas along with other significant works on Konkani art and literature and for being a main pillar of support for the Konkani culture in Canada. Max Mendes and Paul Mathias honored Oswald with the traditional shawl and the Life Time Achievement award.
Miriam Pinto in her felicitation speech expressed her appreciation for Fracis Fernandes' relentless contribution to the Konkani drama and various other contributions toward Konkani art and culture. On behalf of Canara World Foundation she congratulated Francis for achieving yet another milestone on his 100th recognition on stage and his ground breaking mark in North America. Max Mendes and Flavian Pinto honored Francis with the presentation of a traditional shawl and the prestigious "Canara Kala Sanketh" award. Francis thanked CWF for its spirit and ongoing efforts in keeping the Konkani tradition alive by providing a platform to many legendary artists to perform in Canada.
Finally when the much awaited and anticipated Comedy King, Francis Fernandes (Cascia) made his appearance in a short play "Sairikechi Guspod" it was exactly what the entire audience had been waiting for. Without disappointing the crowd he caused the entire auditorium burst into hysterical laughter and left them wanting for more when the play came to an end. The play was a treat for any Konkani art lover. The supporting roles were played by the local talented artists - Manohar Pais, Aditi Kamath, Santosh D'Souza and Ronald Monteiro.
On behalf of Canara World Foundation, Max Mendes thanked Francis Fernandes, the musicians, singers, artists, sponsors, volunteers, guests and the members of the Organizing committee - Paul & Irene Mathias, Flavian & Miriam Pinto, Max & Nancy Mendes, Donald & Sandra Alva, Ingrid Pereira, Nilofer D'Souza and Michael Serrao.
It was an amazing evening which will remain in the heart of the audience for a long time.
This mega event was supported by the generous sponsorship of:
MAX MENDES - MAX MENDES GROUP
FLAVIAN PINTO - SUNLIFE FINANCIALS
MARTIN MENEZES - MORTGAGE & BUSINESS CONSULTANT
NANCY MENDES- CANADIAN IMMIGRATION
ALI & KIM- BARRISTER & SOLICITOR
STAN GOVEAS - ROCK OF COLORS
OSBERT D'SOUZA- CANADIAN 360
RONALD REGO- REGO INTERNATIONALS
FRANK SERRAO- DIXIE TOYOTA
RAVI FERNANDES - TRINITY AUTO CENTRE
DIWAKAR KAMATH- CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT
CARLOS GASPER - AT EASE HOME INSPECTORS
SUMAN AHUJA- LAWYERS & SOLICITORS
STANLEY & UPASANA - FOX 21 PRINTING
