Most were too polite to accept Master of Ceremonies Wendell Constantine’s urging to form a conga line and “wine” their way to the food court pavilion for refreshments. This was after the formal opening, yesterday, of the People’s Space, established on Queen’s Park Savannah for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). But scores of local and foreign dignitaries, as well as ordinary citizens, took the opportunity to chip to the delightful music of the Defence Force Steel Orchestra playing Stalin’s Black Man Feeling To Party on the way to a snack and a drink.

The expansive People’s Space, which has eight pavilions, cost $4.4 million to set up, Community Development and Culture Minister Marlene McDonald told her listeners, as she delivered the feature address. Visitors will have an opportunity to sample local cuisine, like doubles and roti, at the Masala pavilion, or shark and fried bake at The People’s Food pavilion.

They can also visit the Panyard, be entertained musically at the Liming Spot, or visit the Vintage Pavilion to experience T&T’s literature. “They will see a people who aspire together. They will see a people who achieve together...“They will see thousands of faces—of all races and ethnicities—working together in peace and harmony, amidst great political stability.”