The familiar sound of Gombeys echoed throughout the W.E.R. Joell Tennis Stadium this weekend at the annual Gombey Festival.

The event, hosted by the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, drew hundreds of spectators to watch performances by four of the island’s Gombey troupes — Gombey Warriors, Gombey Evolution, H&H Gombeys and Places New Generation Gombeys.

Attendees were also given some information about the history of the Gombey tradition and their attire, and heard live music by Mitchell “Live Wire” Trott.

At the heart of the event was the honouring of H&H Gombeys troupe founder Tyrone “Funk” Nesbitt, who was recognised for his lifelong contribution to the art form.

Sylvan Richards, Minister of Community and Culture, even joined in the spirit of the event by dancing before the crowd.

“I enjoyed the performances of the various gombey troupes that were on display at the annual gombey festival,” Mr Richards said.

“I was also honoured to be able to celebrate the contributions made to our gombey culture by Tyrone ‘Funk’ Nesbitt.

“The public turnout at the festival was also much appreciated and the audience participation was both enthusiastic and appreciative.

“The Gombeys are an important component of Bermudian culture and the annual Gombey Festival continues to celebrate the Gombeys’ contribution to our culture.”

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