Jason Joseph, a passionate advocate for cultural preservation in Saint Lucia, recently concluded the 14th annual Dansé Kwòdril (Quadrille) sessions at JQ Rodney Bay Mall. The weekly event, which ran from early September to October 23, has been a cornerstone of the island’s cultural calendar since 2011, with JQ Mall as its official sponsor for the past five years. For Joseph, these sessions are more than just dance lessons—they are a mission to revive Saint Lucian heritage and foster community participation.
Joseph’s journey with dance began in his childhood at his church’s Saturday Night Socials. Though he initially learned Quadrille through observation, his passion for movement waned for years, even as he gained fame as a musician and his brother embraced salsa. A personal turning point reignited his love for dance, and he has since become one of the island’s most prominent promoters of Quadrille, a dance with roots in 18th and 19th-century European ballrooms, later adapted by enslaved Africans in the Caribbean.
While Quadrille is often performed by cultural groups for tourists and events, Joseph emphasizes the importance of personal participation. “It’s crucial that Saint Lucians learn to dance with their families and friends,” he said. “These dances are about bringing people together.” Over the years, attendance at his sessions has grown significantly, thanks to consistent efforts, corporate sponsorship, and the rising popularity of his Kwéyòl Sent Lisi brand on social media.
Joseph’s vision extends beyond Quadrille. He is also working to revive African-influenced dances like the bélé, débòt, and kutumba, which are still practiced in communities such as Piaye and Babonneau. Additionally, he aims to make communal dancing a year-round activity, not just limited to Creole Heritage Month. “Dancing is not just a social activity—it’s beneficial for health, peace of mind, and stress relief,” he explained.
Despite his success, Joseph humorously notes a challenge: getting more men to join. “I don’t know if they think it’s not manly enough or they’re afraid of ridicule,” he joked. “But we need more men to participate. Right now, I’m having all the fun with the women—and I can’t handle them all alone.”