Island SPACE Caribbean Museum & Le P’ti Club Inc. Celebrate 70th Anniversary of “Compas Direct” Music with Unforgettable Evening
On the evening of Friday February 21st, Island SPACE Caribbean Museum hosted Let’s Talk Music, a remarkable celebration marking the 70th Anniversary of Compas Direct. With more than 150 guests in attendance, the evening offered attendees an immersive experience with an expert-filled panel discussion and live music. This event was done in partnership with Le P’Tit Club and supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Exciting evening exploring the Legacy of Compas and its Influence on Modern Haitian Culture
The evening began with a panel discussion that delved into the continued relevance of Compas music in contemporary Haitian society.
Panelists included Smith Jean-Baptiste, known for his pivotal role in the original Shleu Shleu band, who spoke on the enduring legacy of Compas music, emphasizing its lasting impact on the Haitian music scene, Carole Maroulé Demesmin, a singer and Vodou practitioner, who shared insights into how Racine/Roots music is intertwined with Haitian spirituality, and Mushy Widmaier, a jazz musician from the Zèklè band, who offered a contemporary perspective, touching on the evolution of music in Haiti and the global influence of genres like jazz and Afrobeats.
The panel was moderated by Philippe Montas, a seasoned musician and professor, whose deep understanding of Haitian music kept the discussion lively and engaging for the audience.
After a thought-provoking discussion, guests in attendance got the opportunity to ask the panelist their own questions. Guests also had the opportunity to bid on unique artworks during a silent auction, which featured works from prominent Haitian artists such as Helene Boisson, Myrtho Celestin, and Rachelle Scott. These Haitian artists displayed the diversity of Haitian culture through their artwork.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the discussion was followed by a live music performances by Victoria Johnson, a talented vocalist who was a top 50 finalist on American Idol Season 22 and a recipient of the Tri-Rail Kids Got Talent Award, and Strings, who was recently recognized with the 2024 Best Music Duo Award by Le P’tit Club. Both acts brought their own flair to the celebration, captivating the audience with their powerful performances, and even collaborating on a cover of Michael Jackson’s hit “The Way You Make Me Feel.”
Throughout the night, attendees enjoyed a selection of delicious food by Epic Catering. Haitian Consul General Reginald Victor-Louis presented a proclamation to Smith Jean-Baptiste drummer of Shleu Shleu original 1966, Kapi Yvon André percussionist of Tabou Combo and Evens GoGo Latortue Saxophonist band leader of I-Kompa, then he and his wife enjoyed a tour of the museum and dancing to the rhythms played by Strings.
As the night concluded, attendees left with a deeper understanding of Haiti’s musical roots, and the ongoing dialogue surrounding the evolution of Haitian music.
Enjoy this gallery of photos showing some of our favorite moments:
Island SPACE Caribbean Museum and Le P’ti Club Inc. look forward to hosting more events that honor and preserve the cultural richness of the Haitian diaspora.
For more information on future events, visit islandspacefl.org/events.
Island SPACE is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Broward County Cultural Division, BBX Capital Foundation, Community Reinvestment Alliance of Florida, “King” George Jograj, Dr. Lydia Malcom of Authentic Behavioral Health LLC, and her husband, Mr. Waynewright Malcolm, Alexandra P. Davis, and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Judith Cornfeld Fund for the Arts, Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund, and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund.
About Island SPACE Caribbean Museum
Island SPACE Caribbean Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the Caribbean’s diverse heritage through exhibits, educational programs, and events that spotlight the region’s history, art, and music.
The facility features a historical archive filled with information and artifacts from across the Caribbean region, a fine art gallery and multipurpose spaces.
The public is invited to visit the museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.
About Le P’ti Club Inc.
Le P’ti Club Inc. is a cultural organization focused on fostering appreciation for Haitian traditions through events such as performances, panel discussions, and festivals. The organization aims to connect individuals from all walks of life through shared experiences of Haitian heritage and culture.
Get Involved
If you’d like to participate in future events or to get involved otherwise, here’s how you can:
Sponsor an upcoming event: Email museum@islandspacefl.org or call 954-999-0989
Become a vendor at an upcoming event: https://islandspacefl.org/become-a-vendor
Volunteer with us: https://islandspacefl.org/volunteer
Become a museum member: https://islandspacefl.org/membership
Plan your visit to the museum: islandspacefl.org/visit
Book an event with us: Email museum@islandspacefl.org or call 954-999-0989
