KINGSTON, Jamaica — Company Dance Theatre (CDT) made a spectacular return to the stage with a performance that blended artistic excellence with thematic depth, marking a significant cultural moment in Jamaica’s dance landscape. The production, presented at Kingston’s Little Theatre, demonstrated the company’s unwavering dedication to innovative choreography while challenging conventional perceptions of dance artistry.
Staged in collaboration with the Women in Law Foundation and the Scotiabank Women Initiative, the event served as a benefit performance honoring International Women’s Day 2026. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” was powerfully interpreted through movement, merging dance’s expressive power with messages of female empowerment and social progress.
The season’s second night commenced with principal dancer Andrew Bailey leading the ensemble in “Streams,” a piece originally choreographed by CDT’s late founder Tony Wilson. The performance established an atmospheric journey through aquatic-inspired blue lighting and costumes, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
Guest choreographer Khalia Campbell, formerly of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, presented the world premiere of “The Return” featuring the athletically exceptional Joshua Craigie. The work left audiences captivated by its technical demands and emotional resonance.
Artistic Director Dr. Sade Bully-Bell reaffirmed her status as an avant-garde choreographer with “Gamma Gamma,” showcasing her distinctive artistic voice and exacting standards. Associate Artistic Director Renée McDonald’s “One80” emerged as another standout work, particularly in its reconceptualization from solo to trio format. This adaptation featured Jevon Ferrill joining Andrew Bailey and Joshua Craigie, earning enthusiastic applause for its physical and conceptual boundary-pushing.
The program’s diversity shone through Steven Cornwall’s “Baddie Language,” where Shamitha Chindepalli led the company through explosive dancehall choreography. Shavaughn Byndloss’ “Mapping” provided emotional depth as dancers moved to the iconic music of Jimmy Cliff.
Notable performances included Matthew Johnson’s technically precise execution and young dancer Naomi Campbell’s commanding presence. Female leads Naima Scott, Zhane Padmore, and Shauna Cummings demonstrated remarkable expressiveness and dynamic artistry throughout the production.
The company will continue its artistic journey with an international performance scheduled for March 14, 2026, in Miramar, Florida, with tickets available through their official website.