Dear Editor,
A thousand thank-yous to the vision which initiated Carifesta 36 years ago and brought it back to Guyana this year, to the thousands of volunteers, all the national participants and the visiting delegations. At the national level and most certainly here in Region 10 the programme exceeded all expectations. Okay, there were administrative and logistical challenges but what a great opportunity for the many who were having hands on experience learning about hosting such a fantastic event.
Contrary to the impression some media are encouraging, Region 10’s Carifesta was a huge success. A rich programme of multiple events attracted sell-out audiences – audiences which were so appreciative that some productions were asked to return.
Staring last Saturday with the Jamaican delegation’s performance of River Bottom, Sunday featured the Brazilian children’s play followed by a great instrumental presentation featuring local, national and international performers. While the opening of The Silk Cotton Tree was postponed on Monday, our community welcomed the Antigua and Barbuda Dance Group. After that more than 6000 enjoyed a spectacular gospel performance which lasted for over four hours.
On Tuesday, Lichas Hall was packed to capacity with patrons standing in the aisles to enjoy the second production of River Bottom, while 400+ attended a Fashion and Poetry Show featuring Guyanese and international talent. Both events started on time and were extremely well organized. Wednesday’s programme featured the Linden Museum, which is already reporting record visitors and later that night moved across the river for a super concert at the Bayroc Grounds. After that there were presentations by Region 10 Children and more productions by international delegations at the Lichas Hall and another super concert. The hard work by the coordinators, Region 10 Carifesta Secretariat and 100+ volunteers over the last three months is acknowledged and Lindeners are enjoying the fruits of their labour.
The only real problem Lindeners had was getting away to check out the Georgetown programme.
Yours faithfully,
R Vansluytman
