Following the disruption caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Caribbean Dance Theatre (CDT) made a spectacular return to the stage with a season that blended artistic excellence with social purpose. Staged at Kingston’s Little Theatre, the 2026 production series demonstrated the company’s unwavering dedication to innovative choreography while advancing Jamaica’s contemporary dance landscape.
The season served as a benefit performance celebrating International Women’s Day 2026, presented in collaboration with the Women in Law Foundation and Scotiabank Women Initiative. Embracing the year’s theme of ‘Give to Gain,’ the production merged powerful dance with messages of female empowerment, creating a memorable experience that transcended traditional performance boundaries.
The opening night featured Andrew Bailey, CDT’s principal dancer, leading the company in ‘Streams’ – a piece originally choreographed by the late Tony Wilson, founder of Company Dance Theatre. The performance established an atmospheric tone with blue-hued lighting and costumes that transported audiences through a journey of undeniable beauty.
Guest choreographer Khalia Campbell, formerly of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, debuted her compelling work ‘The Return,’ featuring the athletic brilliance of Joshua Craigie. The piece left spectators in awe with its technical complexity and emotional depth.
Dr. Sade Bully-Bell reaffirmed her status as an avant-garde choreographer with ‘Gamma Gamma,’ demonstrating distinct artistic vision and exacting standards of excellence. Another highlight emerged with Renée I McDonald’s ‘One80,’ which transformed from solo to trio format for the first time, featuring Jevon Ferrill alongside Andrew Bailey and Joshua Craigie in a performance that redefined physical and mental limitations.
The company’s talented ensemble commanded attention throughout the season. Matthew Johnson displayed remarkable technical precision while Naomi Campbell delivered explosive performances. Female leads Naima Scott, Zhane Padmore, and Shauna Cummings provided grounded, expressive, and dynamic presence throughout the productions.
Steven Cornwall’s ‘Baddie Language’ brought explosive energy to the stage with Shamitha Chindepalli leading the company in a dancehall-inspired number that electrified audiences. The season also featured revivals of Wilson’s ‘Sparrow’ and ‘Rooted In The Spirit,’ alongside additional movements from ‘Baby Mama.’
Beyond the local performances, CDT expanded its reach with a one-night-only show in Miramar, Florida on March 14, 2026, bringing Jamaican contemporary dance to international audiences and further solidifying the company’s growing global presence.