The 56th Wilson Olivera Nite, held on January 1 at the Bondel church grounds within the St Lawrence Church compound, was a grand event that brought together Konkani music lovers to kick off the New Year. Organized to support the innovative projects of the St Lawrence Church and Shrine, the evening showcased the immense talent and enduring legacy of Wilson Olivera, one of Konkani music’s most beloved icons.
Wilson Olivera delivered a spellbinding performance featuring 18 melodious compositions, blending his iconic hits with new creations that left the audience captivated. His soulful voice, paired with compelling lyrics, reaffirmed his status as a stalwart of Konkani music. The evening was further enriched by side-splitting comedy, engaging skits, and energetic dance performances, making it a wholesome entertainment experience.
The event was hosted with charm and wit by Ronald Oliviera, while musical direction by Roshan D’Souza Angelore added a polished brilliance to the performances. The night featured exceptional vocalists, including Ashwini D’Costa, Pradeep Pinto, Prashant Pinto, Joseph Mathias, Stuart Olivera, Velita Lobo, Zeena Pereira, Shilpa Coutinho, and Jason Lobo. They were supported by the Off-Pitch Mangalore ensemble, which included talented musicians on drums, tabla, flute, violin, accordion, and more.
Comedy acts by the Kuwait Express group, known for their hilarious skits, had the audience roaring with laughter. The Urban Groove dance troupe, choreographed by Avil D’Cruz, dazzled with their dynamic and graceful moves.
Bishop Dr Henry D’Souza of Bellary, a distinguished guest, congratulated Wilson Olivera on his contributions to Konkani music and commended Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza for uniting parishioners through events like this. The bishop also urged the Christian community to strive for excellence and make impactful contributions in government and society.
Several individuals were honored during the event, including Joseph Mathias and James Mendonca, for their exceptional service to the community. Parish priest Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza received praise for his efforts in renovating the church and fostering a spirit of unity among parishioners.
The event saw a large turnout, with attendees from various walks of life, including priests, nuns, sponsors, and well-wishers. The vibrant atmosphere and joyous crowd reflected the community’s love for Konkani culture and music, making the 56th Wilson Olivera Nite a memorable celebration.
