Pan De Vibes Sets the Stage for Panorama 2025 with Electrifying Performances

PRESS RELEASE

Monday 16th June 2025 – St. John’s, Antigua……. 

The spirit of steelpan echoed through the streets this past weekend as the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) hosted a successful Pan De Vibes event in front of the headquarters of State Insurance Company Limited, title sponsor of Panorama 2025. The vibrant afternoon offered an exciting preview of what’s to come on Saturday, August 2nd at Carnival City, when the national Panorama competition returns with plenty VIBES energy and passion.

The event highlighted the exciting debut of Pandemonium, the newest addition to Antigua’s steelpan family, alongside veteran bands including reigning champions Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, West Side Symphony, Halcyon Steel Orchestra, and Panache Steel Orchestra. Each band delivered a dynamic 40-minute showcase, leaving the audience captivated and hungry for more.

Adding to the cultural celebration were appearances from traditional masquerade characters and the lively iron band, creating a family-friendly festival atmosphere that united music, tradition, and community.

During a brief ceremony within the event, the ABFC and State Insurance Company Limited reaffirmed their partnership, with this year marking the second year in a three-year title sponsorship agreement for Panorama. Also presented to the public were the 2025 ECAB Mr. & Miss Teenage and Queen of Carnival contestants further igniting excitement for Antigua Carnival 2025.

Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chairperson of the ABFC, expressed her pride and optimism in her remarks: “On behalf of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, I am proud to celebrate and showcase the steelpan art form Pan is trending, and Pan is a VIBE! This year, we welcome our newest band, Pandemonium, and salute the return of our veteran groups. What you experienced here today is only a taste of what’s to come for Panorama 2025. I also want to thank our pan captains and leaders for making the pan yard a safe haven for our youth more than a rehearsal space, it’s a summer camp, a place of discipline and belonging. And to our valued sponsors like State Insurance Company Limited thank you. Your support fuels the heartbeat of our culture.” The Chair sent a charge to Corporate Antigua to get involved. “Whether through uniforms, refreshments, or in-kind support, every contribution helps keep the steelpan tradition alive. As the saying goes, likkle, likkle full basket and every bit counts.”

Ms. Aarion A. Nicholas, CEO of State Insurance Company Limited, reflected on the deeper meaning of their involvement: “Supporting Panorama is more than a sponsorship; it’s an investment in the future and a celebration of brilliance. We at State Insurance Company Limited are proud to champion youth development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. The steelpan is a symbol of creative freedom and talent that echoes across all generations, and we are honoured to be part of its journey.”

“To the Pan Association leadership, I urge you to lead with unity and purpose. And the public join us on August 2nd and let the power of pan music move you. You won’t be disappointed you may even find it therapeutic.”

ABFC invites the Pan lovers to support the State Insurance Company Limited Panorama on Saturday, August 2nd at Carnival City, and to celebrate all events of Antigua Carnival 2025 Itz A Vibe!