Archive for May, 2010

Bringing the Coolest Acts to the Hottest Destination!  Memorial Day Weekend May 26-31

Performances by Mary J. Blige, Raheem DeVaughn,  Toni Braxton, Joe Thomas Featuring Soul Beach Competition Winner, Darien and Local Artists, Youth Extreme

Along with “Shaquille O’Neal All Star Comedy Jam”  Starring Kevin Hart, Mark Curry & Chris Spencer
Aruba Entertainment Center, Oranjestad Music Concerts at Joe Laveist Stadium, San Nicholas

Thousands of music enthusiasts return for the 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival Hosted by Aruba featuring legendary talent and the best of R&B, soulful performances sure to satisfy connoisseurs of pure grooves. Bringing extreme flavour and heating up the main stage concerts Memorial Day weekend are supreme heavy hitters including (9) Grammy awards winning, and (8) multiplatinum records musical great Mary J. Blige, (5) Grammy winning artist extraordinaire Toni Braxton, R&B multi-platinum sensation Joe Thomas, Grammy nominated singer/songwriter genius Raheem DeVaughn along with a high-decibel comedic round-up of film & television notable Comedian/Actors entertainment featuring Kevin Hart, Mark Curry and Chris Spencer. The 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival Hosted by Aruba will tantalize the multitudes with five days of cosmopolitan bliss Memorial Day Weekend, May 26-31.

Festival goers delve into five remarkable days of savory indulgences; culinary extravagances, aquatic rhapsodies at pulsating beach jams and live it up into the night at exclusive after-parties. A special original program screening of the new HBO series “Treme” enchants local movie audiences to set in motion three nights of mesmerizing concert performances where imaginations will come to life and warm vibes stimulate the soul at Joe Laveist Stadium, San Nicholas, and the vivacious essence of Aruba’s tropical haven.

“We’re proud of this year’s festival line-up and our partnership with the Soul Beach Music Festival organizers. The island is ready to host and celebrate this event together with the performing artists and the festival attendees. This year we’re hosting you in San Nicolas, a Caribbean melting pot where music is an expression of everyday life,” said the Minister of Tourism, Transportation and Labor, Otmar E. Oduber. “Since the 1980’s, Aruba has been the proud host of some of the best music artists in the world. This year we’re expanding our horizon and we’re hosting our first Aruba International Film Festival June 4-11, with some of the best in the film industry. Our aim is to provide experiences that our guests enjoy and that our own communities can benefit from. Aruba brings out the best of the performing artists and our guests because of the relaxing, friendly atmosphere, and by offering the best in accommodations, cuisine and activities.”

Up to the minute festival coverage of the 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival Hosted by Aruba augments the latest happenings by way of live remotes from local hot spots rotating out to radio stations: Los Angeles KJLH with Adai, Washington DC WHUR with Triscina Grey, New York WBLS with Egypt, Charlotte WBAZ with Chirl Girl, St. Maarten Laser 101 with Gee Money and ABC Doug & Dede show syndicated radio network as well as special guest promotions by Syndication One Ricky Smiley morning show reaching over 40 North American markets. Topping off the vigorous events, the nightly parties spin out till daybreak with celebrity guest DJ performances by General Lee. “We believe that connecting people to what matters to them empowers them to make the most out of every moment and this continuously inspires us to deliver the next era of connectivity along with the 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival unwavering sponsors and partners to enhance our market leadership through simplicity, trust and relevance,” said Mark Adkins, producer. “Aruba supports our vision for building a strategic collaboration and we are fortunate to share in their accelerated growth and this year’s expansion of Aruba’s support provides the opportunity to bring a higher level of artist, awareness, and results for Aruba and Soul Beach.”

Friday, May 28th – The 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival Hosted by Aruba inaugurates the main stage concerts with “Shaquille O’Neal All Star Comedy Jam” at the Aruba Entertainment Center with a line-up of comedic greats dispensing cosmic wisdom and gut hitting one-liners on the main stage featuring:

Kevin Hart: Kevin has the uncanny ability to flip the proverbial script and integrates his comedic routines to the fit the audience. His screen appeal has led him to be featured in films such as Paper Soldiers, Scary Movie 3, Along Came Polly, and Scary Movie 4.

Mark Curry: Mark is best known for his starring role in the ABC sitcom “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” along with countless other television & film credits but his own stand-up comedy special for Comedy Central unveils his undeniable humour and keen sense of improvisational timing.

Chris Spencer: Chris is a versatile comedian and actor with irrepressible flair and commitment to his art. He has co-starred in television series, “Soul Food,” and had recurring roles on “The Jamie Foxx Show and “In Living Color,” along with countless appearances in television commercials.

Saturday, May 29th – Swinging into full gear to commence the musical fireworks at Joe Laveist Stadium are gifted, spirited and mind-blowing performers:

Mary J. Blige – There’s little, if any, denying that Mary J. Blige is one of the greatest singers of our time. The proof is in the consistent #1 albums and singles, six (9) Grammy awards, seven (8) multi-platinum records and 15-years of love from the public, critics and fellow artists. Since her 1992 debut – the modern classic What’s the 411 to her 2005 Breakthrough Mary J. Blige has helped to redefine R&B.   More importantly, Mary J has been an artist that uses her gift to lift spirits, touch lives and bring her heart, soul and truth to those who are willing to listen. Mary’s eighth studio CD, Growing Pains, comes on the heels of Mary’s best-selling anthology Reflections (2006). Her latest single “I Am” from her Stronger with Each Tear album releases undeniable lyrics that speak a universal language of love and respect as Mary continues captivate the hearts of her loyal fans.

Raheem DeVaughn – The son of renowned jazz musician Abdul Wadud, DeVaughn grew up in Maryland and cut his teeth performing in clubs throughout the Washington, D.C. area. After several indie releases, which he sold on the streets and at his shows, the crooner signed with Jive Records and dropped The Love Experience. DeVaughn broke through commercially with 2007’s Love Behind the Melody, which earned him two Grammy nods, two BET J Awards for “Best Male R&B Artist” and “Album of the Year” as well as a prime slot on tour with Jill Scott. Of course, the man behind the Grammy-nominated smash hits “Woman” and “Customer” gives equal play to matters of the heart.  Raheem DeVaughn has become one of modern soul’s most beloved artists. On the heels of his Love & War MasterPeace album, Raheem delivers a socially conscious work of art musically and lyrically that honours women and grips the attention of listeners while rocking their mind and body.

Darien – Soul Beach Competition winner, Darien, a grassroots artists with an organic fan base that embraces his personal style of music is the first choice pick of his peers and will surely gain more admirers after he takes center stage to debut his crowd pleasing performance while to setting off the dynamic display heart-pumping concerts.

Sunday, May 30th – The music extravaganza continues at Joe Laveist Stadium with consummate entertainers bringing a rich melodic blend of velvety lyrics and stage effervescence streaming three nights of magical concerts to deliver the closing expose from performers:

Toni Braxton – With an impressive catalog of six albums (alongside 2003’s best-selling Ultimate Collection), Toni Braxton has built a worldwide base of music lovers since she first burst onto the contemporary music scene in 1991 with “Love Shoulda Brought You Home” (from the soundtrack of the hit movie “Boomerang”). As the ‘First Lady Of LaFace Records,’ Toni’s creative partnership with Antonio ‘L.A.’ Reid and Kenneth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds yielded a non-stop run of multi-platinum albums with 1993’s Toni Braxton, 1996’s Secrets to the 2000 set The Heat. Along the way, Toni distinguished herself with unforgettable hit singles such as “Another Sad Love Song,” “Breathe Again,” “Un-Break My Heart,” “You’re Makin’ Me High” and “He Wasn’t Man Enough” picking up five Grammy Awards in the process. In 2008 she received critical acclaim for her debut show, Toni Braxton: Revealed at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Her new single, “Hands Tied” from her sixth album release, Pulse, shows off her timeless lyrical brilliancy.

Joe Thomas – As an accomplished vocalist of smooth and sultry R&B productions with occasional hip-hop beats, Joe’s extensive background has allowed him to sing, write and produce platinum music that hits. Releasing his debut album, Everything, in 1993, Joe Thomas spawned a number of hit singles, including the #10 R&B hit “I’m in Luv.” His 1997 album, All That I Am, reached No. 13 on the Billboard 200 album charts and No. 4 on the R&B charts and went on to sale over a million copies in the U.S. He continues making hits with Ain’t Nothin Like Me (2007) and Signature (2009). His successful career spans over 17 years. Joe brings the luster of seasoned accomplishment and unforgettable virtuosity to the stage and will hold close the spectators with his smooth delivery of endless hits.

Youth Extreme – Twice named, “Band of the Year” during Aruba’s carnival season, Youth Extreme, has gained has gained popularity with an extensive base touring between Holland and the Antilles. The first CD release, “Beyond Greatness” symbolizes their abounding musical range and will be revealed in to the delight of festival goers complimenting while complimenting the last night of top-notch concerts.

Ticket prices for the 10^th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival hosted by Aruba are $65 US (AFL 120 ) per concert or $180 US (AFL 331) for a three-night concert package (plus applicable service charges).

• DePalm Tours Desks at Major Hotels
• MooMba Beach: Palm Beach
• Mambo Jambo
• Dragon CD & Electronics – San Nicholas
• SETAR – Seroe Blanco
• SETAR – San Nicolas
• SETAR – Palm Beach
• SETAR – Yrausquinplein
• SETAR – Santa Cruz
• SETAR – Airport
• Valero – Santa Cruz
• Valero – Essoville
• Valero – Boulevard
• Valero – Ponton
• Valero – Palm Beach
*Venue Box Office One Hour Before Showtime

For more information on the 10th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival hosted by Aruba, please visit www.soulbeach.net or www.aruba.com

Donkey Sanctuary Fundraiser
Wednesday June 2nd, 2010
With N.Y. Jets Cheerleaders

Click to enlarge

Aruba, the island of 90,000 friends you haven’t met yet, is rolling out the red carpet for the first ever Aruba International Film Festival (AIFF), taking place June 4-11, 2010. Marked by the presence of legendary actor Richard Gere, who will be hosting the festival and is receiving a special humanitarian award, the festival promises a week of unprecedented excitement. In celebration of the upcoming festival, Aruba’s hotels and resorts are offering special packages to attract visitors from all corners of the world to participate in the full week of events and themed movie nights, including Bollywood and Latin nights.

“Aruba is pleased to host the first International Film Festival and further contribute to international recognition for the island, while welcoming celebrities and film aficionados from all over the world,” said Geraldine Coutinho, area director North America. “In an effort to make travel to Aruba during the festival as easy and accessible as possible, we encourage travellers to enjoy the packages our hotel and resort partners have put together in honour of this event.”

Information on special travel packages to Aruba that coincide with the first International Aruba Film Festival follows below:

• The A-List Package at Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino.  This package offers the seventh night free, access for two to Red Carpet Movie Night Opening Event featuring Richard Gere (June 4th), two VIP tickets to the official Aruba International Film Festival “Bollywood” Gala Event at the Aruba Marriott (June 10th), exclusive access to the resort’s private lounge and secluded beach area, five complimentary gourmet servings daily, open bar nightly from 6:00 – 9:00 PM. In addition, deluxe amenities such as a pillow menu, free internet and pressing services are offered during this stay. Package rates start from $580 per night and require a minimum seven-night stay in the Tradewinds Club at the resort. The offer is available for booking now through June 3, for travel June 3-14, 2010. For more information, call +1 (800) 223-6388 or visit www.arubamarriott.com, and use promotional code FVJ.

• Hyatt Regency Aruba offers a special Red Carpet Package for all movie aficionados, which will be available throughout the duration of the festival. The package components include one free night with a complimentary upgrade, a celebrity welcome basket upon arrival, the possibility to attend the Aruba International Film Festival Island Chic Red Carpet Event at Hyatt Regency Aruba with tickets for two, as well as the “Richard Gere Dive in Movie” or a dinner Al Fresco at Footprints. The package also includes free daily breakfast for two, massage for two, and a complimentary Palapa (Hut) for the ultimate relaxation. The Red Carpet Package starts at $1,799 for four nights and is available from June 4th to June 11th, 2010.  Rooms are subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. Please visit www.aruba.hyatt.com for more information or call + (011) 297 586 1234.

• Summer Fun and Film at Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa. The AAA Four Diamond property located on 14 acres of Aruba’s famed Palm Beach is encouraging travellers to plan ahead for summer to receive significant savings. The resort’s Super Summer Sale features savings of up to 35 percent throughout the summer season beginning at $179 per room, per night. Additionally, the Super Summer Sale includes a $25 credit to the resort’s oceanfront Larimar Spa, $75 beverage credit on stays of five nights and USD 100 beverage credit on stays of six nights or more. Children five years of age and younger eat breakfast and dinner free. Rates are available throughout the summer, including during the upcoming film festival and must be booked by July 31, 2010. To take advantage of the Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa’s Super Summer Sale, please call Radisson Hotels toll-free at +1 (800) 333-3333 or visit www.radisson.com/aruba, and use promotional code SSS1.

• Take advantage of The Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino’s Summer Discount, which offers up to 25 percent off leisure rates during the film festival.  Renaissance provides separate adult exclusive and family-friendly resorts within the same property and boasts Renaissance Island, the only private island in Aruba. For information and reservations, visit www.renaissancearuba.com or call +1(800) 421-8188.

• “Green Vacation Package” at Bucuti Beach Resort.  With this package, travellers can “Experience Aruba” with a low season rate of $1,531 per couple for five-nights (additional nights are $287). Blending in with the green initiatives that the film festival organizers and participants are undertaking, Bucuti’s package adds on to this green experience with a garden view room for five nights, guided hike in Aruba’s Arikok National Park, a tour of the Aruba Aloe Factory, an authentic Aruban dinner for two at the oceanfront Pirates’ Nest Restaurant, full American breakfast buffet daily. All taxes and service charges are included. The package is valid April 6 through December 22, 2010. To reserve, please visit www.bucuti.com, call +1 (888) 4-BUCUTI or email info@bucuti.com.

For additional information on the film festival, please visit the Aruba International Film Festival website at www.arubafilmfest.com.