VM 140th Anniversary Concert of cultural expression

It was the financial group's first attempt to meld the social and cultural history of Jamaica along with its own story, in the form of a live show. The chorale De Cho-R'us, which opened the show, definitely set the pace for its theme, 'Celebrating the Past, Innovating for the Future'.

In an intriguing mix of drama and song, the multi-talented group of performers told the story behind the start of Victoria Mutual in 1878 while making mention of the abolition of slavery and the struggles of the post-slavery era.

Songs such as The Mighty Diamond's I Need A Roof, and Nesbeth's My Dream were appropriately selected, as according to Courtney Campbell, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Victoria Mutual Group in his welcome remarks, "The goal of our founders 140 years ago was for more Jamaicans to own homes and become financially independent. This remains at the core of the work we do today, with the ultimate aim being the upliftment of our people. It is a 'production' which we as stewards of a 14-decade legacy take very seriously."

Stirring words

After Campbell's stirring words, he invited Michael McMorris, chairman of the board of directors along with men who previously held the positions of president and CEO: Roy Hutchinson, Karl P Wright, Richard K Powell, as well as Douglas Cover who served as the general manager for 19 years.

He was represented by Ronald Graham, former assistant general manager who served during the same period. Campbell made presentations to the men, and expressed that the VM Group would not be able to achieve 'better days' without their pioneering work.

After the presentations, The University Singers, basking in the glory of their 70th anniversary took Centerstage. The dynamic chorale entertained the guests for more than half-hour with folk medleys and short skits such as the Breadfruit and Yellow Yam songs and Go Home Elena, which had the audience members laughing from the pit of their stomachs.

It could be said that the same praise Campbell gave the VM employees during his welcome could be imparted on the University Singers, as "All executed with passion and heart (creating) sweet music to the ears of customers."

Later, Dance Xpressionz decided to stimulate other senses, with eye-opening choreography to music from then and now, including: Day Oh, Simma Down, Sister Nancy's Bam Bam, Admiral Bailey's Della Move, and Trailer Load by Shabba Ranks. The dancers' wardrobe changes and performances were executed at an equally fast pace and matched the event's theme with their innovative moves.