The National Cultural Foundation (NCF) is poised to deliver an extraordinary evening of artistic brilliance with the NIFCA Performing Arts Gala, scheduled for Sunday, November 16, at 6 p.m. at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium. This grand finale of the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA) will spotlight Barbados’ finest talents in dance, music, theatre, and literary arts. The event will predominantly feature Gold Awardees from the 2025 NIFCA season, alongside select Silver Award winners and the top Gold Award recipient in Literary Arts. These performers, celebrated for their originality, skill, and passion, promise to captivate audiences with their exceptional artistry. Highlights include performances by Pearl’s Dance Academy, Wesley Hall Junior School, Dimension Elite, Lumination Shift, Bim Cheer Federation, and Dancin’ Africa. Musical acts will feature the Christ Church Foundation School Steel Orchestra, Skyy Dowridge, Nikhyl Burnett, Damario Foster, Kenaz Walker, St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Band, ZZ Cumberbatch, and the St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Choir. Theatre enthusiasts can anticipate appearances by Akil Ifill & Tiffani Williams, Nakita Thomas of Northern Lights Drama Group, and Emmanuel Charles, while Roseann Pile, the Literary Arts winner, will also grace the stage. Odane Bartley will present a unique mixed-discipline performance, bridging various artistic forms. The NIFCA Performing Arts Gala is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the festival season, celebrating creativity, dedication, and national pride. From vibrant youth groups to seasoned artists, the event embodies the spirit and talent that define Barbados’ cultural heritage. Tickets are priced at $40 for adults and $20 for children, available at official box offices island-wide, including NU Look (Bridgetown), Emerald City (Six Roads), Carlton Supermarket (Black Rock), A&B Music Supplies (Wildey), SmartStore (Limegrove & Welches), Ah Touch of Class (Bridgetown & Speightstown), and CS Pharmacy (Bridgetown). Online purchases can be made at www.ticketpal.com. Under the theme “The Tradition of Excellence Continues,” the 2025 NIFCA Performing Arts Gala promises to be an unforgettable celebration of artistic mastery and cultural pride.
