GEORGETOWN, Guyana: Antigua & Barbuda’s contingent to the tenth edition of the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) gave a stunning and colourful presentation during the much anticipated parade of nations, held during the opening ceremony on Friday at the National Stadium at Providence in Guyana.

Antigua-Barbuda CARIFESTA performers

CARIFESTA is regarded as a festival for and by Caribbean people to express themselves in various forms such as drama, cultural dances, conferences, workshops and the culinary arts.

The Antigua and Barbuda parade was led by patriotic national Hilson “Super Blue” Joseph (The Flag Man), who was followed by the Community Players and the Urlings Iron Band. The rhythmic and cultural sounds of the Urlings Iron Band penetrated the environs of the National Stadium causing applause and admiration from the audience. Also included in the parade were the National Dance Theatre and the National Youth Theatre among others.

The country’s opening parade and concept was planned by Rudolph Davis and followed the themed “Masquerade”. “I think it came off quite well and members of the contingent did a wonderful job under the circumstances”, Davis said, who is also a member of the local organizing CARIFESTA Committee.

The highlight of the event was a full length production of song and dance called ‘Celegacy’ which means celebrating our legacy. The programme featured some 1000 children that depict areas of Guyanese culture of folk music and dance.

Antigua-Barbuda CARIFESTA performers

CARIFESTA was declared officially opened by President of Guyana, Bharat Jagdeo. The Minister responsible for CARIFESTA, Dr Frank Anthony said like CARIFESTA, Guyana had always fulfilled a role in Caribbean integration and he hopes that as they sought to make the event more economically viable, the spirit of togetherness will never be lost.

During the upcoming days the visiting groups are expected to be traveling throughout Guyana making several presentations in song, dance, concerts and other areas of performing arts.

Antigua delegation is 125 strong and is being lead by Gilbert Laudat, Acting Director of Culture.