An Intimate Evening with Reggae Royalty: Tarrus Riley and Dean Fraser at Island SPACE
On Wednesday, May 1st, Island SPACE Caribbean Museum buzzed with excitement as guests gathered for an unforgettable evening with reggae icons singer Tarrus Riley and legendary saxophonist Dean Fraser. With over 80 attendees, Island SPACE hosted a fireside chat set to bring together music lovers, community leaders, and fans of Caribbean culture for an intimate conversation, giving insight into two of reggae music’s most beloved figures.
Guests kicked off the evening by mingling and exploring the museum’s exhibits, all while enjoying light bites and refreshments courtesy of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, with tropical drinks served by Coconuts & Cocktails. Mandy Laguerre, Island SPACE museum manager, warmly welcomed guests and shared insights into the museum’s impactful work within the community, encouraging attendees to get involved and support its mission.
Jamaican Consul General Oliver Mair delivered opening remarks, recognizing Tarrus Riley and Dean Fraser’s contributions to Jamaican music and culture with his usual wit and charm. After opening remarks, the evening moved into the lively fireside chat, with musicians Riley and Fraser hosted by Grammy Award-winning artist Tifa and Island SPACE executive director Calibe Thompson.
Thompson introduced Fraser, a veteran of over 55 years in the music industry, known for his groundbreaking work as a saxophonist, producer, and mentor. Tifa then welcomed Riley, highlighting his legacy as a standout performer, songwriter, and humanitarian, known for hits like She’s Royal and his powerful live shows.
The conversation covered Riley’s musical upbringing as the son of singer Jimmy Riley, Fraser’s early days in reggae, and the bond the two share as collaborators and friends. They discussed career milestones, creative influences, international collaborations, and their perspectives on the current state of Jamaican music.
Audience members also had a chance to ask questions before the end with an invitation to attend the duo’s concert the following night at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale.
As the evening drew to a close, the crowd lingered in conversation, energized by the shared experience. Attendees were treated to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the artist’s life and craft, gaining a deeper appreciation for the storytelling, activism, and cultural pride embedded in his music.
This event was supported by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
Catch a glimpse of the action:
Missed it? Watch the whole chat here:
Thanks to Our Sponsors
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 $15 per adult and $7.50 per child. Visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.
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: Correo electrónico mu****@***********fl.org or call 954-999-0989
Become a vendor at an upcoming event: Correo electrónico mu****@***********fl.org or call 954-999-0989
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: Correo electrónico mu****@***********fl.org or call 954-999-0989
