Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has come to London in emphatic style with the launch of its Culture Fest on 25 July.

Specially-invited guests were entertained at the Tricycle Theatre, Kilburn, which has been re-styled as an island village pulsing with the authentic sounds, smells and vistas of T&T. On arrival at the theatre’s coconut tree-fringed entrance, guests were greeted by the sounds of steel pan, T&T’s national instrument, and the sight costumed beauties from Bacchanalia mas band. Inside, they nibbled on tasty canapés prepared by chef Hasan De Four, whose Angostura Rum shrimp and mini-saheenas with tamarind dip proved especially popular.

Showcasing T&T’s diverse culture, were Indo-Afro-Trini fusion band Mungal Patasar and Pantar, island rock group Orange Sky, UWI Dance Ensemble and classical Indian dancer Rohini Kumar. Rapso artists 3Canal closed with a rousing performance that earned them a standing ovation.

Culture Fest is being held under the patronage of the High Commission for T&T and aims to use the platform provided by the London Olympic Games to edutain visitors about the country’s culture. It is also the stand out event to celebrate T&T’s 50th anniversary of independence.

High Commissioner Garvin Nicholas said the participants at the launch gave “a brilliant showing”. About Culture Fest, he said: “This is something that I feel very strongly about. We have such a rich and diverse culture and it is very important that we share it with the world.”

Culture Fest runs for four weeks until 25 August at the Tricycle Theatre. Patrons will be able to sample T&T’s art, literature, music, dance, theatre, cuisine and film.

All events are free (although some may need to be booked in advance) and cater for both children and adults.

To download a brochure visit www.tthighcommission.co.uk.