EDITORIAL - Thinking outside the ‘TV’ box

Barbadians have over the years become very tech-savvy and nowhere is this more apparent than in the many choices for online entertainment. With respect due to television and cable providers, the ability to stream live shows and events has opened many options for persons who want real-time entertainment.

As sophisticated as we are in keeping up with the latest from overseas markets, we should also think critically about what stories we have to tell that can appear on the big screen. There are many local stories to be told that have not had an opportunity to be brought to life on the lone television station; and those that do, only for a short timeframe. Others are destined (and perhaps better suited, given their design) to be based on YouTube or Instagram. We hope that in the future, more players in the field have the opportunity to launch series, expose Barbadian talent and push our unique brand of entertainment that is more than just comedy or dance shows. One can safely say we’ve barely scratched the surface of our collective talent.

As our local brand has shown, premieres at the local cinemas and television station provide an avenue by which they can grown bigger and better. Marcia Weekes, whose first movie ‘Hush’ resonated with local audiences, branched out to stage a successful showing of the movie “Vigilante – The Crossing” at the Pan African Film Festival last year. She has also scored reviews and an award for her most recent docudrama, “Barrow: Freedom Fighter”, an invaluable look at the contribution of National Hero, the Rt. Excellent Errol Barrow.

Better yet, these shows can also contribute directly or indirectly to our main money earner – tourism – with the option of extending further diversion into the arts. The recently
held Barbados Independent Film Festival is one such avenue that provides for screenings, and tailoring the craft necessary for success.

Given that the Cultural Industries Act is a reality, we hope this provides renewed focus for the myriad of opportunities creative persons can take to advance into business. We also hope that heightened interest in the field will propel further change to school curriculum, especially among those who have not shown interest in traditional academic subjects.

Every child is unique and brings to the table his or her separate ideas, inclinations and potential. Therefore, shouldn't their education reflect that, while still providing for a balanced and well-rounded exposure to all subjects?

It is a conundrum we often face in Barbados – upholding examination results and an impressive literacy rate versus what are considered unreliable careers, those in the arts. It is no surprise some who have no interest in academics or vocational training leave school with few certificates to their names with little intent in furthering their studies.

As a nation charting its path past 50 years, which has an impressive record in the field of education and producing a catalogue of professionals, the diversity of our offerings on study is a state we would do well to ponder.

Barbados Advocate

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