Nevis is set to commemorate a significant milestone as the Department of Agriculture prepares to host the 30th Anniversary of its flagship event, Agri-Expo, on March 26th and 27th, 2026. Under the theme “Rooted in History, Utilizing Land & Sea, Agri-Expo 30,” the event will highlight the island’s agricultural advancements, cultural richness, and innovative practices over the past three decades. The celebration will take place at the Elquemedo T. Willett Park in Charlestown, featuring exhibitions by local farmers, fishers, agro-processors, manufacturers, and artisans, showcasing Nevis’ deep connection to both land and sea. Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Eric Evelyn, emphasized the importance of this milestone, inviting everyone to participate in this vibrant celebration of Nevisian heritage and sustainable future. The Department of Agriculture also encourages regional partners and the Nevisian diaspora to join in this proud testament to the island’s agricultural legacy and commitment to sustainability.
分类： entertainment
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Alwin Bully’s 1975 classic ‘STREAK’ commemorative staging returns for additional dates by popular demand
The Alwin Bully Foundation Inc. and La Cour des Arts de La Dominique Inc. have announced the revival of the iconic theatrical production, ‘STREAK,’ in honor of the late Dr. Alwin Bully’s 77th birthday. This landmark event celebrates his profound impact on Dominican culture and commemorates the play’s 50th anniversary. Performances are scheduled for November 22 and 23, 2025, at St. Gerards Hall, with additional shows added due to overwhelming public demand during Dominica’s independence celebrations. Originally premiering in 1975, ‘STREAK’ is a romantic comedy that intertwines humor with a poignant social commentary on Dominica’s history during the mid-1970s. The production team faced significant logistical challenges, including restoring the venue’s sound and lighting systems and arranging makeshift backstage facilities at St. Mary’s Academy. Directed by Severin McKenzie and supported by a talented cast and crew, the play blends drama, music, poetry, and dance, showcasing the vibrancy of Dominican cultural expression. This revival not only honors Bully’s artistic legacy but also rekindles appreciation for Caribbean theatre, inviting audiences to relive the dynamic spirit of the 1970s. Organizers emphasize that these performances offer a final opportunity to celebrate a work that continues to inspire and resonate across the Caribbean.
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Artist Saegel honours Yung Bredda
Saegel “Saegel” Bascombe, a Trinidadian artist, has carved a unique niche for herself by blending her passion for art with her love for scientific inquiry. Her recent creation, a life-sized portrait of artist Akhenaton “Yung Bredda” Lewis, showcased her ability to rally her community and deliver exceptional work under tight deadlines. Commissioned by her sponsor Kirt Hill, Bascombe completed the piece in less than the usual month and a half, thanks to the unwavering support of her boyfriend, Joshua Riley, and a dedicated team of friends and family. The project, executed in a makeshift studio, was inspired by Yung Bredda’s gospel music and aimed to capture the essence of time through a ribboned canvas design. Bascombe’s artistic journey began in childhood, where her early creations, such as a rainbow art piece in primary school, hinted at her future potential. Despite her initial uncertainty about pursuing art as a full-time career, her achievements, including topping the Caribbean in 2D art at the CSEC level, solidified her resolve. After a brief detour into engineering and cultural studies, Bascombe embraced her true calling as a full-time artist. Her recent accomplishments include being selected for Royal Caribbean’s Artist Discovery Programme, where she created a mural representing Trinidad and Tobago’s culture. Bascombe’s work, characterized by its uniqueness and vibrant acrylic layers, continues to evolve as she explores new mediums and opportunities. She remains unfazed by the rise of digital technologies, confident in her ability to remain relevant through her genuine artistic inquiries. Bascombe aspires to reopen her art studio and reignite her passion for teaching, while also expanding her portfolio as a muralist. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to bring spaces and people to life.
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Kartel toasts Grammy nomination, joins relief efforts
Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel has secured his second Grammy nomination, with his album *Heart & Soul* earning a spot in the Best Reggae Album category. The announcement, made on November 7, places Kartel in competition with fellow artists Lila Iké, Mortimer, Jesse Royal, and Keznamdi. This nomination follows last year’s recognition of his *Party With Me* EP. In a statement to the *Jamaica Observer*, Kartel emphasized his commitment to legacy and uplifting Jamaica, stating, “Every song, every show, every mission me do now it’s about legacy and upliftment. Jamaica build mi, so mi haffi build back Jamaica.”
Beyond his musical achievements, Kartel has been actively engaged in humanitarian efforts through his Adidja Palmer Foundation (APF). On the same day as the Grammy announcement, APF delivered a 40-foot container of essential supplies, including 12,000 bottles of water, 1,500 loaves of bread, and hygiene kits. Partnering with World Central Kitchen, the foundation also cleared debris, served over 3,500 hot meals, and provided direct support to a children’s home housing 70 disabled children.
Looking ahead, APF plans to expand its mission from emergency response to sustained rebuilding. Kartel aims to adopt one children’s home, rebuild the roof of another, and create safe spaces, including a women’s and kids’ shelter, a soup kitchen, and a counseling area. The foundation will also assist in rebuilding a basic school and restoring parts of St Elizabeth, Jamaica’s breadbasket parish.
After visiting communities affected by a recent hurricane, Kartel shared his vision for mental health support, highlighting the trauma experienced by many, especially children. “We’re creating a space where people can get psychological help, because too many — especially the kids — are dealing with trauma. This is not normal, so we have to care for the mind, not just the body,” he said. Kartel praised the resilience of Jamaicans, stating, “Jamaican people tough like steel, and that’s what hurt me the most; I’ve never seen the people dem cry so much, ever! But the resilience of Jamaican people is second to none. As we always say, ‘We likkle but wi tallawah.’ Right now is the time when we need unity the most.”
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All stars of the arts take the stage at NIFCA Performing Arts Gala
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.
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The Barracks Art Gallery Presents a Retrospective of Former Antiguan Artists: Preserving Our Creative Heritage
The Barracks Art Gallery in Redcliffe Quay is proud to unveil a landmark retrospective exhibition, honoring the works of past artists from Antigua and Barbuda. This initiative is a vital effort to safeguard and chronicle the artistic heritage of the twin-island nation, ensuring that its cultural legacy endures for future generations. The exhibition is a cornerstone in the broader mission to compile a comprehensive archive of Antigua and Barbuda’s visual arts history.
‘Understanding our past is essential for progress,’ emphasizes the gallery’s curatorial team. ‘By meticulously collecting and archiving the stories and creations of our artists, we are not only preserving individual legacies but also weaving together the rich cultural tapestry of our nation.’
As part of this ambitious project, The Barracks Art Gallery is calling on the public to contribute information, photographs, artworks, and anecdotes related to earlier generations of Antigua and Barbuda artists. This collaborative endeavor aims to ensure that these valuable resources are meticulously documented, securely stored, and made accessible for future research and inspiration.
This retrospective exhibition represents the inaugural step toward the establishment of a National Gallery of Antigua and Barbuda – a permanent institution envisioned as a beacon for celebrating, protecting, and promoting the nation’s artistic achievements for years to come.
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Ian Jackson launches three books chronicling four decades of Dominican arts and culture
Dominican author, musician, and cultural advocate Ian Jackson has achieved a remarkable literary milestone with the simultaneous release of three new books, marking the first-ever triple publication by a single author in Dominica. This historic event underscores Jackson’s enduring contributions to the island’s cultural and literary heritage. Jackson’s artistic journey began at the age of nine with the Kiddie’s Corner Show at the Parish Hall, and he has since emerged as a versatile figure in the performing arts, excelling as a musician, songwriter, actor, and writer. He is a founding member and former president of the Dominica Writers Guild, a former leader of the RSB band, and served as president of the Dominica Calypso Association from 2000 to 2004. Despite his diverse artistic endeavors, Jackson has always prioritized writing, a passion that blossomed during his school years. As Deputy Head Boy and editor of the Clarion magazine at Dominica Grammar School, he gained recognition for his poetry, winning numerous national and regional competitions. Inspired by historian Lennox Honychurch, Jackson committed in 1980 to documenting Dominica’s cultural arts. His journalistic career includes a weekly column in the Sun newspaper, work at the Chronicle, and ongoing contributions to Vibes Radio, where he critiques and celebrates local performing arts. Jackson credits cultural icon Alwin Bully for recognizing his talent early and facilitating his participation in a fine arts program at CARIMAC in Jamaica. He also studied under Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott at the University of Miami. Jackson’s accolades include the Golden Drum Award in 2013 and the Meritorious Service Award in 2022. The three newly launched books include a biography of the late Fitzroy Williams, a prominent cultural figure who played steel pan with Jackson’s father, Ulric Jackson, Dominica’s first three-time Calypso King. The second book, *In the Still of Night*, is a collection of 69 articles celebrating and critiquing Dominican arts and culture. The third book blends poetry, short stories, and essays rooted in Dominican myths and beliefs. During the launch, Jackson urged the Ministry of Education and Culture to incorporate Dominican literary works into school curricula and proposed renaming the Arawak House of Culture in honor of the late Alwin Bully. He also paid tribute to his late mother, his daughter Janae, and the late educator Josephine Joseph, whose influence ignited his love for literature. The books are available at Jay’s Bookstore and on Amazon in English and French.
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Cuban poster exhibition opens at Cineteca in Mexico
The National Film Archive in Mexico City recently launched a captivating exhibition featuring 15 meticulously curated posters from the Cuban Embassy’s collection. Marina Stavenhagen, the Director General of the National Film Archive, inaugurated the event, highlighting the significance of the showcased works. These posters, created between 1964 and 1993, bear the artistic signatures of renowned Cuban visual artists Raul Martinez and Rene Portocarrero, as well as designers Eduardo Munoz and Antonio Fernandez. The exhibition drew a crowd of enthusiasts who marveled at the iconic designs for films like ‘Lucia’ and ‘Memories of Underdevelopment.’ Stavenhagen revealed that this display is the first installment of a larger exhibition slated for January at the National Film Archive in Chapultepec. She emphasized the honor of presenting a segment of the archive’s iconographic collection, which celebrates the creativity and diversity of Cuban film posters, a globally recognized art form. Following the opening, attendees were treated to a screening of the Cuban cinema classic ‘Strawberry and Chocolate’ (1993), offering a glimpse into the upcoming Cuban film series scheduled for January 2026.
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Flamenco comes alive in “Viva Flamenco” performance at Fine Arts Palace
The Leslie Ricardo School of Dance is set to commemorate International Flamenco Day with an electrifying performance titled ‘Viva Flamenco.’ The event will take place on Sunday, November 16, at 7:00 p.m. in the Máximo Avilés Blonda Hall of the Palace of Fine Arts in Santo Domingo. This celebration promises to immerse the audience in a dynamic fusion of rhythm, color, and emotion, underscoring the timeless allure of flamenco as a profound artistic expression. Over 80 aspiring dancers will grace the stage, presenting a diverse repertoire of flamenco styles, including the passionate ‘caña,’ the exuberant ‘sevillanas,’ and the lively ‘bulerías.’ Each performance will showcase the students’ artistic growth and technical prowess, enhanced by traditional Spanish dance elements such as shawls, fans, castanets, and the iconic flamenco attire. Leslie Ricardo, the school’s artistic director, described the event as ‘an experience to feel, learn, and celebrate,’ highlighting how flamenco serves as a medium for dancers to convey character, discipline, and freedom through movement. This initiative underscores the school’s dedication to promoting Spanish dance in the Dominican Republic, fostering cultural identity, community engagement, and artistic fervor. Tickets for this unforgettable evening are available for purchase at TIX.DO.
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Shaw Peters on show at Studio Joli
Studio Joli is proud to present Shawn Peters’ latest exhibition, ‘I Think in Line and in Colour,’ opening on November 13. Now in his 50s, Peters is widely regarded as an established and accomplished artist, with a career spanning over two decades. His works are prominently displayed in prestigious locations such as the Prime Minister’s Diplomatic Centre, various government departments, and major collections across Trinidad and Tobago, including Angostura, the Central Bank, and the National Museum. Peters has also showcased his art internationally, with exhibitions in the Caribbean, including Cuba, and around the globe.
Throughout his artistic journey, Peters has collaborated with and been influenced by renowned artists such as Emheyo Bahabba, Guy Beckles, the Boothman brothers, Edward Bowen, Holly Guyadeen, Shastri Maharaj, Gregory Williams, and Che Lovelace. He has also maintained friendships with artists from Barbados, Suriname, and other regions. Leroy Clarke, Carlisle Harris, Ken Crichlow, and Makemba Kunle are among his key mentors, shaping his unique artistic voice.
Peters’ work is characterized by distorted figures and cubist tendencies, a signature style that has earned him recognition and acclaim. As Kunle once noted, ‘He is meticulous in his rendering of line, colour, and texture, often achieving a sleek appearance. For those who know him, slickness is his dress code.’
When asked for his artist statement for this collection, Peters offered a profound reflection: ‘I would not wish myself on anyone else, and yet, I would not wish to be anyone else but myself.’ This sentiment encapsulates the individuality and authenticity that define his art.
The exhibition will run from November 13 to November 27 at Studio Joli, located at 21 Henry Pierre Street, St James. Opening hours are 10 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays. For more information, contact 705-7907 or 705-7909, email studiojoli.tt@gmail.com, or visit their website at www.studiojoli.net.