Love City Pan Dragons: A Festive Finale to a Year of Remarkable Growth

The Love City Pan Dragons are gearing up for their much-anticipated Christmas Concert, a vibrant culmination of a year marked by significant growth and renewal. Under the leadership of newly appointed Executive Director Andrea Milam, the ensemble has not only expanded its musical repertoire but also embraced new opportunities for cultural exchange and community engagement.

Andrea Milam, who took the helm as the first paid executive director following a pivotal grant acquisition, has been instrumental in steering the Pan Dragons through a transformative year. With the support of the board, led by Ronald Lee Jr. – a St. John native and Pan Dragons alumnus – Ms. Milam has successfully reinvigorated the group’s presence, notably with their debut in the St. Thomas Children’s Parade after several years.

A standout moment for the Pan Dragons this year was their performance at the Day of Healing during the Congressional Black Caucus’ Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., where they delighted over 3,000 attendees with the enchanting melodies of steel pan music. This trip also included a meaningful interaction with the Cultural Academy for Excellence in Virginia, fostering invaluable connections and inspiring the Pan Dragons’ board to plan similar enriching experiences annually.

The upcoming fundraising concert is not just a celebration but a stepping stone towards a 2024 trip to Antigua. Here, the USVI ensemble will collaborate with Ikema Dyer’s home band, the Cool & Smooth Ebonites, in the renowned Antigua Panorama. This inter-island cultural exchange is eagerly anticipated by both players and the community.

Ronald Lee Jr., an accomplished musician and former student of Victor Provost at George Mason University, is set to charm audiences as the opening act. His unique arrangements, including Mariah Carey’s iconic “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” promise a festive and memorable evening.

As the Love City Pan Dragons aim to raise $50,000 for their Antigua trip, Ms. Milam encourages robust public support at the concert. She highlights the group’s vital role in nurturing young talent and preserving Caribbean culture. Through music, the Pan Dragons foster teamwork, create a supportive community, and keep the rich Caribbean heritage vibrantly alive.

The concert, scheduled for 5 pm on December 23 at the St. John School of the Arts, is more than just a musical event; it’s a celebration of cultural legacy and community spirit. Tickets, priced at $15, are available via phone at (340) 690 – 2420 or through PayPal, offering everyone a chance to be part of this festive and culturally significant occasion.