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From a very young age, Reanne Marie Ras developed her passion for music and carnival. At just 16 years old, she is an emerging talent with an impressive list of participations in Aruba’s major festivals. Just as the rhythm of carnival runs through her veins, the energy of the stage is her greatest inspiration.
REANNE RAS
REANNE RAS
Reanne began her musical journey at just 4 years old, singing in groups like Muchanan Sabi. Since then, she has continued to take the stage, participating in festivals such as Festival di Pasco di Tante Julie, Festival di Roadmarch y Calypso, Festival di Himno y Bandera, and Festival di Tumba. With each performance, her talent has become more recognized and appreciated.
REANNE RAS
REANNE RAS
In 2015, she won the Rookie of the Year and Amistad Award, proving her dedication and passion for the art of singing. Two years later, she was crowned Roadmarch Queen Pre-Infantil (2017), and in 2019, she won the title of Roadmarch Queen Infantil. “In 2023, I participated in the Ranchera Festival, where I won second place and had the opportunity to perform in China,” Reanne shares. That same year marked a significant milestone when SMAC recognized her for 10 years of participation in the Roadmarch Festival, an emotional and unexpected moment for the young artist.
For Reanne, the magic of Carnival is more than just a competition. She feels Carnival in her heart. "My mom used to sing in De Trupialen, and my older uncle also sings. My family loves music, and we enjoy karaoke. One thing is certain—my family is full of Carnival lovers. At a very young age, I was already part of the Carnival section, and that passion never left me. That’s why I have the same passion for singing during Carnival and dancing in the parades to put on a show."
The most special year for Reanne was 2017."Not only because I won the Pre-Infantile Roadmarch, but also because that same year, a good friend of mine became the Children's Queen, and we both won in the same year. That Carnival was 100% an amazing experience for me." For Reanne, the most special thing about the Carnival festivals is simple: "It’s that you don’t just participate once. After the festival, you still get to join the parades, have fun, and enjoy all the Carnival promotions happening around the island. You also get to meet the other participants and build great connections."
“My family is my biggest support system during carnival and all other festivals, especially Roadmarch and Tumba. Many of my dancers are my family members, and my mother and father are my biggest driving forces. My mom is always running around with me, while my aunts and uncles help in every way they can—finding dancers, preparing stage props, and organizing costumes.”
“This is truly a family effort, as my other aunt helps with decorations, my grandparents work on support signs, and another aunt sews my costumes. I know many young people dream of singing, but without their family’s support, they can’t achieve it. That’s why I am incredibly grateful for the love and encouragement my family gives me.”
“People often ask me if I get tired of all these festivals,” Reanne admits. “Of course, there are times when it can be overwhelming, but I do this because I love it. The key is balancing school and my love for music.” Aside from singing, Reanne has developed a love for choreography, and her dancers have become like family to her. “The time we spend training together before the festival feels like a hangout with my friends,” she says.
Reanne sees her success as more than a personal achievement—it is also an inspiration for other young Arubans. The experience of stepping on stage, dancing, and singing is magical, and her message is clear: “I want to motivate all young people to participate in these festivals because they help preserve Aruba’s culture.”
With a promising future in the world of music and entertainment, Reanne continues to grow. In 2023, she was part of the 65th-anniversary celebration of Cas di Cultura and shined in the musical Grease, starring as Sandy.
For Reanne, this is just the beginning. She hopes to keep growing, represent Aruba on bigger platforms, and continue sharing her talent with the world. Without a doubt, Reanne is one of the new faces of Aruba's carnival and music.
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