Bahamas junkanoo
Valley Boys leaders

Bahamas junkanoo leader: Mr Gus cooper

By Theodora Cartwright

The leader from inception, some 50 years ago, Vincent Gus Cooper, is a Junkanoo pioneer. He was a young man, who using the technical skills attained in college abroad, shaped the art of Junkanoo and steered it's evolution into the collaborative colorific kaleidoscope of originally engineered costuming and the harmonious, pulsating percussion band, that we enjoy today. The Valley Boys, under his astute leadership, holds the record for the most wins. The group set the pace; introducing innovations in costume, music and performance many of which are still being used in Junkanoo today. Their costuming consistently hit new levels; dominating the field with new engineering and finishing, ensuring not only better carriage, but the "WOW" factor continuously. The Valley Boys name is synonymous with parade music. The organization's management nurtured this section, resulting in the development of a body of talent unrivalled by other Junkanoo groups. The Valley Boys dominated with another first, Female Dancers. Mr. Cooper's support of the idea of trained dancers performing synchronized, yet themed routines, which helped the group depict each parade theme; lead to champion choreography sections with numerous victories over the past half century. Under Mr. Cooper's leadership the Valley Boys, from inception until now, 2008 Boxing Day Champions, dominate the Junkanoo world. He contributes to the continued growth of the art form on governmental committees and leader organizations, endeavouring to make Junkanoo the official cultural identifier for the country. His love for this cultural expression has been documented and he works still today with youth, educating, mentoring and guiding them in people management and Junkanoo skills. His dream is that Junkanoo flourishes forever