United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, so impressed by the multi-million dollar cultural show that followed Friday’s historic opening of the Fifth Summit of the Americas, has said she intends to return for Carnival 2010. This was revealed by designer and three-time Band of the Year leader Brian MacFarlane, who put the programme together.

In a brief interview as he made his way into the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port-of-Spain, yesterday—day two of the Summit—MacFarlane said he understands Clinton was impressed with the colour and co-ordination of the programme, which featured 700 characters, including songstress Ella Andall, as well as calypsonians David Rudder and Arrow of Antigua. “I have learnt from a reporter that Clinton was blown away. She had no idea to expect something of this level. She was excited and she wants to return for Carnival next year,” MacFarlane said. The cultural programme told a story of the Americas, from the beginning to present day.

Guests had the opportunity to listen to the sound of steelpan and calypso music, accompanied by various dances. MacFarlane said the response to the hour-long cultural programme was good. “All are very impressed and overwhelmed. It was a great success and we feel proud. Trinidad looked fabulous.” MacFarlane said he was looking forward to putting on a production in June of next year at the International Pan Jazz, at Lincoln Centre, New York. Popular talk show host Oprah Winfrey is expected to attend that ceremony. “It is a big topic, it is global warming,” MacFarlane said of the production.