contact@haitiwonderland.com+509 36184317

Discover

Shopping Cart

Montreal celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of King Coupé Cloué and Queen Celia Cruz
Montreal celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of King Coupé Cloué and Queen Celia Cruz
Montreal celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of King Coupé Cloué and Queen Celia Cruz

Montreal celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of King Coupé Cloué and Queen Celia Cruz

The Légendaires collective, based in Montreal, announces the celebration and commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the births of Coupé Cloué and Celia Cruz, born on May 16th for Coupé Cloué and October 21st for Celia Cruz. This highly deserved gesture of appreciation for these two major figures of Caribbean music is a demonstration of the bright legacy they left behind after their time on this earth. When referring to their contributions to the musical world and the magnificent symbolism their voices represent for their respective countries, this commemoration is indeed an opportunity to celebrate their identity alongside their music.

The main events scheduled for this commemoration will take place on February 28th, May 10th, and October 18th. The event on February 28th at the Maison d’Haïti located at #3245, Émile-Journault Avenue will mark the launch of the celebrations honoring both artists. There will also be a Gala on May 10th in honor of King Coupé and October 18th in honor of the Cuban Queen.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

A Dynamic Team

The organizational committee for the 100th Legendary Anniversary is composed of well-known personalities in Montreal’s Haitian community. The general coordination is handled by Ronald Osias, Myriame Brès, and Yanick Joseph. The treasurers are Cynthia Gabriel and Willaine Juliassaint, while the artistic coordination includes Philippe Fils-Aimé, Ronald Osias, and Jean Pierre Moutou. The communications and public relations department is managed by Raymond Laurent, Murielle Baron, Ludwy René, and Fritzner Pierre, with secretariat and logistics handled by Yanick Pierre-Louis and Marcelin Désir. Me François Moïse is the press officer in Haiti. Volunteer members include Fedrick Pierre, Barbara Jean, Guerdie Monfiston, Caleb Desrameaux, and Jeff Wainwright. Additionally, the volunteer artists are Barbara Ruiz, Ernst Mildort, Mixsy Lova, Mireille Philosca, Yanick Joseph, Tactic Polo, and Jean Pierre Moutou. The initiative is led by the Agency for the Promotion of Culture and Arts S.E.N.C., headed by Ronald Osias, with the support of immediate partners such as: The Arts and Memory Collective, Maison D’Haïti, ADMCN Agency, Rigaud Benoit Foundation, the 911 organization, Samedi Midi Inter Program, Imaj-La Média, Kulturmania Productions, PBS Haïti Radio, Haitian Television of Montreal, Cosmeme, Caspag Club, and haitiwonderland. All these people and businesses, along with numerous volunteers, have united behind this noble idea to ensure the success of the events taking place as part of this commemoration.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

Caribbean Unity

Simply linking these two great names of Caribbean music is a significant achievement. Queen Celia, a Cuban who lived much of her life in the United States, never abandoned her attachment to her native Cuba. On the other hand, King Coupé Cloué is one of the most qualified voices to represent Haïti in the musical field. The salsa of the queen, less danced in Haiti, and the compas of King Coupé, not particularly popular in Cuba either, are both connected through the warmth of the Caribbean found at the heart of their creations. And Caribbean unity is made possible thanks to King Coupé and Queen Celia, with this encounter taking place in Montreal on February 28. The fact that both of these figures were born in the same year (1925) offers a unique opportunity to celebrate them, and the Légendaire collective has certainly seized that opportunity.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

From the Caribbean to the Rest of the World

The fact that this commemoration takes place in Montreal, Canada, is a serious symbol of the influence both artists have on their respective diasporas. It is also a declaration that Caribbean music (as with all other music in the world) creates encounters, and has the power to form universal bridges that can connect Caribbean cultures with the rest of the world.

Haïti
Haïti
Haïti

A Promotion of Haitian Music

Compared to other cities around the world, Montreal is a major crossroads where cultures meet. It is a city that represents the world as a whole. While there is a large Haitian and Cuban community in this great city, it is certain that this event will also be an opportunity for compas music to open up to other communities in order to win their hearts.

An Opportunity to Discover the Rich Legacies of the Two Legends

On the occasion of this commemoration, it is fitting to recall the immense legacy these two great musical personalities left behind. Queen Celia’s hits, such as "Bemba Colorá", "Quien Será", "La Vida es un Carnaval", "Yo Viviré", and on his side, Coupé Cloué’s classics such as "Coupé Cloué", "Yeye", "Map di", "Myan Myanm", "Fanm kolokent"... continue to bring joy today and inscribe the happiness that music brings to our minds.

This celebration, which will take place on the dates mentioned above, also has an extraordinary significance in the sense that it gives the past its rightful place. It is a way of affirming that by drawing inspiration from the past, we can best build the future. The Cuban queen and Haitian king are clear examples of Caribbean excellence. To elevate them is to honor their countries (as they marked the history of their countries with their music) and their cultures of origin, while opening the field to inspire today’s youth to follow in their footsteps, for the well-being of millions of music lovers around the world.

Share
About the Author
Moise Francois
Moise Francois
Moise Francois

Journalist editor, poet and apprentice lawyer.

See other articles from Moise Francois
Leave a comment

Recently Posted

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of all our activities and news on Haiti.

Haiti: A Little-Known Pillar of World Independence

Haiti, the world’s first independent black republic, played an exceptional role in the quest for independence for other nations. Although often overshadowed by other historical events, Haiti’s contribution to the liberation of other countries was significant and deserves to be highlighted. b~The Haitian Revolution~b At the turn of the 19th century, Haïti threw off the chains of slavery and achieved the impossible by freeing itself from French colonial rule. In 1804, the country proclaimed its independence, ushering in a new era for oppressed peoples around the world. b~Inspiration for Latin America~b The Haitian Revolution was a major source of inspiration for independence movements in Latin America. Iconic figures such as Simón Bolívar and Francisco de Miranda recognized the courage and determination of Haitians as a driving force for their own struggles. By materially and ideologically supporting these movements, Haïti contributed to the emergence of several independent nations in South America. b~Influence in Africa~b Beyond the Americas, Haïti also played a crucial role in the quest for independence in Africa. African leaders have left a legacy that has inspired entire generations of freedom fighters on the African continent. The idea that oppressed people could rise up against their oppressors found a powerful echo in the struggles for independence in Africa. b~Support for Liberation Movements~b Throughout its history, Haïti has provided substantial support to liberation movements around the world. Whether through troop dispatches, financial resources or active diplomacy, the country has demonstrated its solidarity with those fighting for their autonomy. Haiti’s contributions have often been discreet but crucial. Haiti, as a pioneer of independence and freedom, has left a lasting impact on the world stage. His legacy resonates across continents, reminding the world that the quest for freedom is universal. By recognizing and celebrating Haiti’s role in the independence of other nations, we not only honor its history, but we also commit to promoting a future where all people have the opportunity to shape their destiny.

Haïti / Pot’iwa Pizza: A Culinary Odyssey

Since 2015, Pot’iwa Pizza has conquered the hearts and taste buds of the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. Founded by visionaries Jude Vaillant and Rock André, Pot’iwa Pizza has become a true gastronomic icon by offering a unique specialty: smoked herring pizza. This culinary creation has revived childhood nostalgia among many Haitians, marking the beginning of an exceptional culinary adventure. The very name of the company, "Pot’iwa", is a tribute to the Haitian regions where its founders were born. Jude Vaillant, originally from the "Iwa" region, and his accomplice Rock André, native of "Potino", have united their origins to create a company that harmoniously fuses tradition and innovation. Despite the socio-economic challenges that punctuate Haitian daily life, Pot’iwa Pizza is committed to constantly improving its services. This unwavering determination led to the opening of a second branch of the company, this time in the city of Cap-Haïtien, in the north of the country. The inhabitants of this region now have the privilege of tasting the famous herring pizza, previously reserved for the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince. Aware of the importance of protecting its culinary heritage, the company made a strategic decision by filing a patent in the United States to protect its specialty: herring pizza. Jude Vaillant, CEO of the company, shares his vision behind the choice of herring: "In Haiti, our childhood was rocked by a particular flavor, present in many traditional dishes. We decided to bring this flavor to an emblematic dish like pizza, to create a unique culinary experience." Pot’iwa Pizza embodies the passion, nostalgia and perseverance of Haitians for their traditional cuisine. It is a story of flavors and success that continues to seduce palates around the world. For those who want to taste this delicious herring pizza, go to Pot’iwa Pizza, located at 26 boulevard Cap-Haïtien, or contact them at +509-47-30-9090. And for fans residing in Miami, USA, Pot’iwa Pizza is also available at 12485 NE 6th CT, North Miami, FL 33161. To order, call 305-456-5152. Also explore the immersive experience of Pot’iwa Pizza through your smartphone or virtual reality headset, and dive into their mouth-watering menu by visiting the following link: https://haitiwonderland.com/haiti-virtual-reality-ht/ bar--restaurant/haiti--pot-iwa-pizza--virtual-tour/9.

Recently Posted

History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.

  • +
    • Post