Q In The Community started a few years ago as a weekly radio programme on Q 100.7 fm a station of the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation whose target group is the over 40 age demographic. Hosted by Larry Mayers, it was broadcast live on location from 11AM – 1 AM from various communities, primarily rum shops which are found in almost every Barbadian village. It was designed to strengthen the stati
on’s reach within the community, and to link Barbadian villages through the sharing of stories about each community and highlighting any historical aspects, outstanding residents and other interesting stories or anecdotes. As word spread via the live broadcast on Q100.7fm more people started to attend and the shop keepers capitalized on the increasing numbers by preparing various Barbadian dishes for sale, and adding music which encouraged dancing to the oldie goldies, music of the 60’s and 70’s that fit the station’s format. Over the years the show continued to attract more and more patrons and the broadcast time was extended from 11am-5pm with the introduction of a karaoke contest at 3pm presented by the new host Archillus Weekes. CBC also introduced Q TV, a television show which captured reality style all of the sights, sounds, dancing, karaoke, and fun of the event to share with viewers. The television broadcast has resulted in the show leaping from hundreds weekly to a few thousands in attendance and with the radio broadcast going live on www.qfm.bb and the television show airing on www.cbc.bb overseas audiences can also enjoy Q as it is affectionately called and make it one of their things to do when on vacation in Barbados. Q in the community is now one of the most sought after events in Barbados with a waiting list of vendors and shop keepers interested in hosting the event at their premises. Barbadians, returning nationals and some visitors head out weekly to dance and socialize at what has become a staple on Barbados weekly entertainment calendar as it is held 50 weeks a year on Thursdays and occasionally on Saturdays from 11.00 am until. And through radio, web and TV Q in the community continues to highlight and feature the diversity and nuances of every day folk and life in Barbados.
