I want to open a performing arts centre

Kassandra Caines, singer and granddaughter of Dame Lois Browne-Evans, gave a memorable performance at last year’s Lennon Bermuda concert and will make another appearance at this year’s show. She has been modeling and networking in the states for the past year. She is returning to Bermuda for the duration of this year to work at home and build new relationships with other artists on island. She said: “I’m extremely excited for this year's Peace day concert because last year exceeded any expectations I had. The atmosphere was electric on and off stage. It was a pleasure to share the stage with each of the musicians and other artists.” The concert takes place at the Botanical Gardens on September 21. Tickets are available from www.ptix.bm.

Your earliest memory?  

It’s the summers visiting Bermuda. I can vividly remember Harbour Nights with my Nana (Dame Lois Browne-Evans), and swimming with her at Shelly Bay.

What were you like in school?

I was everyone’s friend. I took the time to get to know my peers, and my teachers. I strived to have a personal relationship with everyone. 

Who is your hero/heroine?

I believe it’s a combination of all of the women in my life. They each possess strengths and weaknesses, but it’s a quality of womanhood, they each exhibit, that I aspire to attain. 

Which human trait do you dislike the most?

Pride. 

Human trait you value most in others?

Compassion.

When did you last laugh out loud? And why?

I tripped up the steps earlier today. I laughed until I cried.

Your greatest fear?

Not fulfilling my reason for being. Losing sight of my purpose will not satisfy my existence on earth.

Property aside, what’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought?

When I was 16, after my first summer working, I brought a $500 watch, which I later returned. I can still hear my mother’s voice, “Kassie are you crazy?” *Laughs Out Loud* 

Your ultimate ambition?

Aside from travelling the world, I want to open a performing arts center for children and teens. Creativity remains latent in too many young people, for too long. I want to facilitate an earlier opportunity for youthful expression.  

Your most unappealing habit?

I can be extremely indecisive. Too many choices can, at times, be confusing. 

Describe yourself in three words

Loyal, Genuine, Loving.

Best party you’ve been to?

Strangely, it would have to be my grandmother’s funeral. That day, I fully understood what it meant to be Bermudian. The entire day was momentous, full of love, compassion and unity. It was when Bermuda said their final “Goodbye” to my Nana. After the burial, we partied all night in the rain at Devonshire Rec. We danced with the Gombeys, and sang her favourite songs. For me, it was saying goodbye to my grandmother but for the thousands in attendance, it was “a celebration of The Dame”. I don’t even remember how we got home.

Anyone you’d like to say ‘sorry’ to?

The “childhood” me. 

Biggest regret?

Not staying true to myself in high school. Conformity became my middle name. 

Closest you’ve ever come to death?

One time, I tried to climb on the roof of my house in Philadelphia. It was three stories high and I almost slipped out the window, but my grandmother (Dame Lois) caught me.

 Your desert island song?

Free, by Destiny’s Child.

What animal would you be and why?

I would probably be a dolphin. I love the water, and they are very intelligent. It doesn’t hurt that they are absolutely adorable as well.

If you had a time machine, where would you go?

I would go back to September 21, 2012, the night of the first Peace Day, “The Lennon Concert”. That was an epic night.

Best advice you have ever taken?

“Never be too proud to laugh at yourself.” I make it a daily event!

If you weren’t a singer what would you be?

If I weren’t pursuing music, I’d probably be a teacher. Some of my favourite life lessons happened in a classroom.

What do you most dislike about you appearance?

Nothing actually. I’m learning to appreciate everything about myself. 

What’s your attitude to money?

Money is simply a means to an end. 

Which cartoon character is most like you?

“Suzie Carmichael”, from the Rugrats.

Nicest thing anyone has ever said to you?

My Caines’ grandparents, Kenneth and Matilda, They always tell me they pray for me everyday.

Define romantic love.

If This World Were Mine, Luther Vandross.

Tell us a joke.

Stop and think about some people’s view of women, and what they should and can do! It is so funny! 

Most treasured possession?

My mother.

A dream location for a home?

Harbour Road, Bermuda.

What keeps you up at night?

My thoughts. I have the hardest time putting my mind to rest.

Guilty pleasure?

“Instagram selfies!”

Name your favourite movie:

Prince Of Egypt

Favourite book:

I know Why The Caged Bird Sings, by Maya Angelou.

Your proudest achievement?

When I learned my younger sister considered me a role model.

If you were a pigeon, who would you poop on?

Ha! Dame Lois would roll over in her grave, if I answered this question! I’d be “Lady Pigeon”.

Pet peeve?

When people use the word “conversate” It gets me every time. 

If you won a million dollars, what would you do with it?

Buy my parents a house, and use the rest to start a college fund for my future children.

Most daring thing you’ve ever done?

Fallen in love.

What would you most like to be remembered for?

I hope to be remembered as remaining true to myself, and being compassionate to others. More than existing in the memories of others, I would want to be remembered for the seeds I had sown. 

Seeds that continued to reproduce fruit, long after I’d gone.