Abu Dhabi: The spectacular musical extravaganza “Fiesta 2018”, held at the Abu Dhabi Country Club on Friday, November 9, broke all records, as the Konkani Cultural Organization (KCO) celebrated its 23rd anniversary with much pomp and gaiety. The show was one of the best ever as the talented artistes, who performed during the event, captured the hearts of the audience with their unique musical prowess and charm. The ambience of the venue also added to the glamour to the show.
Over the years, KCO has earned a reputation for churning out successful musical extravaganzas and Fiesta 2018 was yet another runaway success. The event showcased KCO’s organizational capabilities and expertise in putting together an entertaining event of unrivalled calibre. The efforts put in by KCO members paid off as the show was a remarkable success. The fusion of Konkani, English, Hindi and Kannada musical pieces was thoroughly entertaining and magical, attracting a houseful audience.
The evening unfurled by invoking God’s blessings with a prayer song, which was followed by a welcome song, composed and sung by the KCO members. Through this event, KCO endeavours to brighten the lives of many less fortunate people back home. The traditional lamp was lit by KCO office bearers, President, Michael D’Silva, Gen. Secretary Leena D’Souza, Treasurer Sunil Pinto, along with Advisors, Leo Rodrigues, Dolphy Vas and Valerian Almeida.
The very entertaining and multitalented Master of Ceremonies Roshan D’Silva took over the evening and carried out the proceedings in a very interactive manner engaging the audience with entertaining spot games and humour. He held the programme together making sure the audience had an enjoyable time and bringing it to a successful close.
Our top Mangalorean singers, the versatile multilingual nightingale, Anita Serrao stole the hearts of the audience with her melodious voice accompanied by the undisputed and charming voices of Mohd. Iqbal and Vijay Vas, who performed wonderfully to the delight of the appreciative audience. The first session by these three noted singers, attracted the audience to the floor with popular dance numbers like ‘Mogan Ason Bore’, ‘Tun Swapnanth Yethai’, ‘Suzanna’, ‘Ye Cheduva’, ‘Dil Diya Galla’ and ‘Jacinta’.
Memories of legendary Bollywood actors like Rajesh Khanna, Dev Anand, Raj Kapoor, Pran and Shammi Kapoor were recreated on stage by Nagesh Kumar, an artist from Bollywood. These actors were brought back to life by his impeccable imitation of their famous songs. His acts astonished the audience, who immensely enjoyed the numbers with great fervour and nostalgia.
The highly acclaimed Goan band ‘Alcatrazz’ powered up the audience with their mesmerizing accompaniment and songs throughout the show becoming an instant hit. Over the evening, a strong rapport was seen developing between the audience and the band. Every bit of their music was thoroughly enjoyed and the crowd had a rocking time on the floor, swinging away to their tunes.
The programme was split into three sessions providing balanced and wholesome entertainment.
In a brief presidential address, Michael D’Silva thanked the sponsors, well-wishers and audience for their support, which had encouraged KCO in presenting such a mammoth function and helping them fulfill their mission.
The sponsors, well-wishers, media personnel and artistes were introduced and felicitated during the programme. A music CD of Walter Dantis was also released by Leo Rodrigues, the Founder-President of KCO.
During the second session Anitha, Vijay and Iqbal rendered soulful and enjoyable numbers like Claudia, Jab koi Baath, Tumse Milke and ‘Anisththide Yako Yendu’.
The novelty dance with masquerade masks aroused a lot of interest. There were prizes for lucky couples and a lucky draw as well.
More songs followed in the third session. All-time favourites such as ‘Sinorita’, ‘Manglur Sheranth’, ‘Guleba’ and ‘Laila o Laila’ were enjoyed by one and all. Anitha surprised the audience by flawlessly singing an Arabic song of Nancy Ajram – Ma Tegi Hena.
The entire show was well organized and meticulously planned under the able leadership of Michael D’Silva. The unity and solidarity among the KCO members was evident throughout the event. Bennet D’Mello the entertainment secretary and the members succeeded in executing the event in an exemplary manner.
Effective sound system, vibrant lighting and stage effects by Broadway Events added colour to the show.
The people who attended the show praised the KCO’s efforts in providing quality entertainment with sumptuous dinner. The programme concluded with the traditional “Laudate”.
