Garfene Grandison, Gleaner Writer

In an effort to boost morale the Sandals chain of resorts staged Encore 2012. Starting out as just a dramatic presentation back in 2003, the concept has evolved into a showpiece.

"The idea is to foster good relationships while at the same time showcase the talents of the hotel employees," said Weston Haughton, creative director.

In a colourful display of talents via music, dance, beach and evening-fashion parade, staff members from the Sandals Resort Group across the Caribbean gathered at the Le Cabaret Theatre inside the Sandals Whitehouse and European Village for Encore 2012.

Kick-starting the proceedings was Master of Ceremonies Weston Haughton who welcomed the first five contestants in the costume parade of nations - Antigua, Bahamas, St Lucia, Turks and Caicos and Jamaica .Participants from St. Lucia and Turks & Caicos presented the most eye-catching and creative designs.

The judges were Miss World 1976, Cindy Breakspeare, comedian Oliver Samuels, local playwright Aston Cooke and Lime's Chelsea Scott.

Of the nine musical performances for the evening four that stood out. Iralyta Fabian from Antigua, Yasmin Butcher from St Lucia and Joel Johnson from Jamaica, who thrilled patrons with his theatric performance of John Legend's This time I want it all. However, the night belonged to Antiguan Mark Branker, who serenaded not only the audience but a female patron in particular (his wife) to Adele's One and only.

The beachwear parade was an anticipated segment of the evening 's entertainment. Loud cheers and applause greeted Rhea Pluck from Antigua when she took the stage. Among the runway hitters were Antiguan 'jock' Willis Drew, Bahamian Elan Mckay and Rolel Dyce, Beaches Boscobel.

Other participants were: Deon Curtis, Shawn Octave, Kermany Lionel, Sheldone Pubien, Tannikko Clarkeand Bernadine Miller

In the dance category, Ariel Marte from Turks and Caicos and Theodore Sheckleford from Jamaica were outstanding.

In the 'Best Dressed' segment of the show, Rolel Dyce, Bernadine Miller and Elan Mckay stood out.

Following an entertaining performance from the Beaches Boscobel dance troupe, the overall Encore winners were announced: Best costume: Shawin Octave (St Lucia); Champion Dancer: Ariel Marte (Turks & Caicos),Top Male Model: Rolel Dyce (Jamaica); Top Female Model: Elan Mckay (Bahamas); Best Male Singer: Mark Branker (Antigua) and Best Female Singer: Yasmin Butcher (St. Lucia).