The Bad Ones from 'back in the day'. The Bad Ones will reunite for a special live performance in Carrot Bay on May 23, 2026. Photo: Provided

This week’s Cultural Thursdays in Carrot Bay will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, with a special Olde School Edition, featuring performances by two legendary Virgin Islands bands — The Bad Ones of East End, Tortola and Latitude Stars of Virgin Gorda. Photo: Provided

Deputy Speaker and First District Representative Dr the Hon Karl Dawson, 2nd from right, said the special Saturday edition of Cultural Thursdays on May 23, 2026, promises to be a memorable evening of music, culture, and nostalgia. Photo: Facebook

In what promises to be a memorable evening of music, culture, and nostalgia, The Bad Ones will reunite for a special live performance in Carrot Bay, Deputy Speaker and First District Representative Dr the Hon Karl Dawson stated in a press release.

The iconic Frett brothers and friends will take patrons on a musical journey through the classics that defined an era, while also showcasing the musical influences and styles that continue to inspire them today.

The Bad Ones

Formed during the late 1960s and early 1970s in East End Tortola, The Bad Ones became one of the Territory’s most popular entertainment groups. The band performed widely at community events and social gatherings and was known for playing music from internationally acclaimed artists such as The Beatles, The Jackson 5, and The Rolling Stones.

The group was also among the early local bands to incorporate reggae music into their performances at a time when the genre was still emerging across the Caribbean.

Latitude Stars

Meanwhile, Latitude Stars will revive memories of the days when they helped define the musical identity of “Musical City” Virgin Gorda. Featuring Clinton Farrington, Jerry, and the crew, the band will deliver smooth ballads, rhythm and blues, reggae, soca, and dance favourites that are sure to keep patrons singing along and moving to the rhythm, the press release added.

Latitude Stars originated in North Sound, Virgin Gorda, with a founding member, Clinton Farrington, recalling that he was just 15 years old when the band was formed. Over the years, the group became a fixture on the Virgin Gorda entertainment scene, performing regularly at local venues and hotels while building a loyal following throughout the Territory.

The special Saturday edition of Cultural Thursdays will feature all the favourites patrons have come to enjoy, including cultural foods and drinks, a fresh market beginning at 3:00 PM, and cultural races and games hosted by Shadow from 4:00 PM.

The entertainment lineup will see The Bad Ones taking the stage at 5:30 PM, followed by Latitude Stars at 6:30 PM.

Ground transportation will be provided for Virgin Gorda residents travelling to and from the event. Persons interested in reserving transportation are asked to call 441-9100 or 541-0234 to book their space on the bus.

According to the press release, the evening promises to be one of enjoyable old-school music, culture, and fun for the family in Carrot Bay on Saturday, May 23.