Michele Henderson and friends bring Emerald Elegance benefit concert to life

The Emerald Elegance benefit concert, by Michele Henderson and the Freewinds Band, took place on January 8, 2025, aboard the MV Freewinds, which was docked at the cruise ship berth at Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard.  Aimed at supporting a charitable cause, the event was sold out.

The concert was held under the Distinguished Patronage of Her Excellency, Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, and Mr. Burton.  Mike Napier, Captain of the MV Freewinds, as well as representatives from Premium Home and Residential Care Services (PHARCS) and the Dominica Infirmary, the two beneficiary institutions, gave their remarks to kick off the evening.

Then the audience enjoyed a diverse range of musical performances across various genres, including musical theatre, jazz, soul, pop, and Cadence-Lypso.  Jade Johnson opened, playing the flute, accompanied by her father, Tyson Johnson on acoustic guitar, delivering the classic jazz piece “Autumn Leaves.” Following this, Vernella Henderson, a two-time winner of the DBS Christmas Song Contest, performed a moving vocal piece. The concert continued with performances by Michele Henderson and the Freewinds musicians, highlighted by Jody Zagury’s captivating rendition of “This is the Moment.” Additionally, Michele’s band performed two original compositions, “Home” and “The Beat Goes On,” culminating in a powerful vocal performance of “Purple Rain” by Michele Henderson, which prompted a standing ovation from the audience as the concert concluded.

Feedback from the crowd was reportedly overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their appreciation for the event on social media, describing it as “excellent,” “splendid,” and “professional.” Some attendees conveyed their hopes for future events of a similar nature.

One participant took to Facebook, expressing gratitude for what they termed a concert worthy of prestigious stages worldwide.

“Thank you for such an unforgettable, impeccable concert, worthy of the best stages in the world…”

The MV Freewinds, a former cruise ship owned by the Church of Scientology, has maintained a presence in Dominica for over 30 years, including charitable runs, such as vital aid efforts following Hurricane Maria, during which the vessel provided volunteers and delivered relief supplies reportedly valued at over two hundred thousand U.S. dollars.

Captain Mike Napier stated, “It is always a pleasure and an honor to help the community of Dominica. We feel it is our duty to share and help those in need. The Freewinds has many years of involvement with the community and will continue to do so.”

Sharing her heartfelt sentiments with the audience, Henderson remarked, “I hope each and every one of you leaves here tonight with your hearts full because you started the year right, by giving of your time and money to the worthiest of causes, caring for your fellow man.”

The Dominican singer-songwriter has had a long, distinguished career in the local and regional music scene, with experience spanning decades, and six albums under her belt.  She is also the composer of the CARICOM anthem, “Celebrating CARICOM”.

Proceeds from the Emerald Elegance concert, along with additional donations from corporate partners, will be allocated to the Dominica Infirmary and PHARCS. A press conference is scheduled for January 15, 2025, where presentations to the beneficiary organizations will be made.