Some of the attractive parang costumes designed and produced by the Hardbargain pupils.

There was sweet parang music, great food, beautiful decorations and wonderful people!

The students of Hardbargain (St Paul’s) RC School displayed their unique talents as they shared on traditional parang, a primary schools’ project which was the brainchild of Archbishop Joseph Harris.

Located in what our beloved principal describes as “one of the scenic” parts of the island, they depicted a real country Christmas experience.

The homemade parang instruments on display.

The theme, “A Traditional Christmas Dinner”, was so well portrayed that it felt like Christmas was that very day. The pupils crafted instruments which produced music like the real thing. There were brightly painted maracas made from plastic soft drink bottles and filled with beans and beads, as well as homemade cuatros, mandolins, and guitars with real strings, bucket and box basses, tambourines, toc tocs and scratchers.

The outfits they designed and wore were similar to those of the big parang groups, and their angelic singing, lyrics and rhythm made you move. Nativity scenes were depicted using recycled materials.

In true Trini Christmas hospitality, our special guests, Central Vicariate Manager (Central) Mrs Braxton and CERO Mrs Chan were treated to some of our local Christmas treats and drinks.

It was a truly enriching project for all involved – pupils, teachers and parents.

As a school, we encourage you to enjoy the company of your loved ones this Christmas and remember: “La alegría no está en las cosas, sino que está en nosotros”, which translates, “Joy is not in things; it is in us.”

– Anne Paula Redhead, PTA President