The Story of Carnaval

The Characters

Carmela, 20: Carmela was born in Cuba. Her mother is a dancer, and her father a musician, and from a young age she is trained in traditional dances, and participates in Carnaval. As a childe she is sent to Miami to live with relatives, where she continues her dance training. She is a natural beauty, and as a young adult she struggles to navigate her life as a dancer. Carmela is very practical, but has always believed in following her dreams. When faced with the opportunity of a lifetime, she must learn to follow her heart, no matter what the cost, and to trust in her own artistry and intuition.

 

Derrick, 20: Derrick was born in Trinidad. His mother and father both play key roles in the Trinidad Carnaval celebration, and from a young age he participates as a musician. His mentor, Preacher, is like a second father. Derrick lives his whole life in Trinidad until he is a young adult, and longs to leave for the shores of America, and the possibility of a more successful music career. He gets this opportunity, and during the process falls in love with Carmela. Always a dreamer, he believes in love at first sight, and never gives up on the woman of his dreams, even when they are separated by people and circumstances.

 

Preacher, 50: Preacher is not an actual preacher, but earned this nickname for his knowledge of both life and music. He has a gift for getting people to listen, and when they do, they are under his quirky and charismatic spell. He is Derrick’s mentor, for better or for  worse. Preacher has contributed to Derrick’s romantic tendencies, and loves to be surrounded by beautiful ladies. His lust for life is contagious, and his colorful advice accompanies Derrick throughout the story.

 

Phillip, 30: Phillip is the director of the show Carmela stars in, and becomes her manager and other love interest. Driven and practical, Carmela sees him as a gateway to success, and initially seeks his approval. He knows this, and uses it to his advantage. While he does have true feelings for Carmela, they are deeply intermixed with his desire to control people in his life, and his desire to be loved by many women. He knows how to play a game and win it, but the match with Carmela gives him a challenge he never expected.

 

Madrina, 50: Madrina speaks for Carmela as her Godmother, her spiritual advisor. She lives somewhere between the worlds of mortals and gods. She knows all and sees all . She speaks directly to the African god's and they speak to her.  Carmela is her favorite godchild and she will use all of the powers at her disposal to protect and guide young Carmela through her life.