The Guyana Cultural Association (GCA) of New York Inc and the Ministry Youth, Culture and Sport are collaborating on a symposium aimed at preserving the legacy of the masquerade art form in Guyana.
The symposium, ‘Masquerade Lives’ is scheduled for December 13 and 14, a press report from the Government Information agency (GINA) said.
According to President of the GCA Vibert Cambridge, many persons have expressed an interest in the seminar and while the hub will be at the ministry, sessions will be held at the Umana Yana and villages in Berbice, Essequibo, West Coast and West Bank Demerara and other areas. This is intended to identify any difference in how the art form is performed in the different communities.
“Masquerade Lives is intended to create a space for public education and the examination of the deep heritage associated with Guyana’s masquerade traditions. Special attention will be paid to the origins of the art form, its historical and international connections and the reasons for its decline. Sessions will also focus on masquerade’s aesthetic dimensions, including costumes, dances, music and the performances,” GINA said.
While its objectives are to create a strategy for the rehabilitation and promotion of third tradition, the symposium also aims to preserve Guyana’s folk heritage both at home and abroad. The seminar will also identify and pay homage to Guyana’s masquerade pioneers such as Joe Flounce, Bandula, the Blacketts, Boysie Sage, Bundarie, Putagee and others.
