The support of the performing arts must be continued beyond Carifesta

Dear Editor,
I am heartened with the enthusiasm being placed on the revitalization of the performing arts in Guyana in preparation for Carifesta 08. It is a pity that it took the staging of this festival for persons to actually remember the importance of the need for the continuance of cultural traditions, which seemed to have faded into oblivion, as the organizers of the festival bluntly realized that there was a complete and utter dearth of performers readily accessible.

I do hope that the Ministers of Education and Culture Youth and Sport do not view this as a one time opportunity but rather take the time to be more proactive rather than reactive to have the performing arts   integrated as part of the educational curriculum.

Most schools no longer have choirs, musical equipment and or even persons skilled in the dissemination of the skills required, to develop the interest of youths who represent the future of the existence of Guyana’s patrimony.
It is also envisioned that the efforts of the upgrading of the various facilities to stage Carifesta  will  be maintained and not allowed to fall into disrepair as is customary. Given the nature of things within Guyana one can only assume that I am probably dreaming.
Yours faithfully,
Lloyd Kandasammy