Dominica prepares to celebrate the dual legacy of Edward Oliver LeBlanc—the nation’s final Chief Minister and inaugural Premier—through an innovative cultural fusion of poetry and jazz. A collaborative effort between Jungle Bay Resort, MAC Services Inc., the LeBlanc family, and the Alwin Bully Foundation Inc. will present a distinctive Poetry and Jazz Cocktail event on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 6 PM.
The evening will feature the posthumous unveiling of LeBlanc’s recently published poetry collection, “Fragments of the Dawn,” offering attendees an intimate glimpse into the creative mind that simultaneously shaped both Dominican politics and literature. The event forms part of the prelude to Jazz Creole 2026, enhancing the festival’s cultural programming with profound literary significance.
Young talents from Roseau’s secondary schools and performers from the theatrical production “STREAK” will conduct poetry readings alongside live musical accompaniment from Dominica’s premier jazz musicians. This interdisciplinary approach aims to bridge artistic mediums while honoring LeBlanc’s multifaceted contributions to national development.
Organizers emphasize the statesman’s previously private poetic vocation, which powerfully articulated the experiences of Dominican farmers, fishermen, and workers. His verses, now recognized as foundational to the nation’s cultural identity, reflected the same principles of humility, integrity, and devotion that characterized his political leadership.
The event encourages business casual attire incorporating national colors. Tickets, priced at EC$150.00, are exclusively available in advance at Jay’s Bookstore and Jungle Bay Resort, with no door sales permitted. Net proceeds will support the Alwin Bully Foundation’s ongoing mission to advance arts, culture, and educational initiatives across Dominica.