Dr. Emmanuel (Manny) Francis has again made Junkanoo history by creating the first textbook on Junkanoo, "Manual of Junkanoo Costume Construction: A Beginner's Guide to Junkanoo Design".
The launch for this first ever handbook on Junkanoo will take place today at ChapterOne bookstore from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Special guest speakers will include Dr. Hubert Minnis, Dr. Hervis Bain and Percy 'Vola' Francis. This event is sponsored by Burn's House Ltd.
Junkanoo legend Dr. Emmanuel (Manny) Francis was introduced to Junkanoo by his brother, Percy (Vola) and Phillip Cooper in 1966, with the Saxons, at the age of 15 while attending GHS.
Dr. Francis has designed many winning costumes, the first of which was in 1969 while attending GHS, when he led the Saxons to its second victory over the 'invincible' Valley Boys on New Year's Day, 1970, under the theme, "Egypt 1,000 BC".
He was a mentor to many of today's renowned Junkanoo designers, but saw the need to chronicle his expertise in a handbook on the basics of Junkanoo design for teachers and students of Junkanoo.
Dr. Emmanuel (Manny) Francis is the founder of the "University of Junkanoo", a concept which recognizes the potential for educational development through Junkanoo.
In 1969, he discovered that Junkanoo costume design and construction for a competitive group was indeed an educational exercise involving science, history, art, sociology, religion, economics, parenting, mentoring, communication, acting, sports, sanitation, hygiene, safety, etc., requiring training and discipline in many areas (much like a university).
The final production we see on Boxing Day and New Year's Day is the culmination of many credit hours of didactic and practical study in libraries and Junkanoo laboratories (shacks).
The courses are hard and long, and freshmen can enter at any academic level, which makes teaching a wonderful challenge for Junkanoo professors. It is very rewarding to witness the personal development of these students as we find innovative ways to build their self-esteem and release their inner brilliance.
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