Great interest shown in CARIFESTA
So far, 20 countries have registered to be a part of CARIFESTA 2017 in Barbados while seven other countries have expressed an interest to partake in the festival as well.
In addition, they have also received interest from five independent groups, said the Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, Stephen Lashley.
Delivering remarks at the opening of the 9th European Film Festival at the Olympus Theatres in Sheraton Centre on Wednesday night, he said that in other positive news, the Grand Market and Buyers’ Shopping Mall is almost sold out.
“During the period August 17 – 27, 2017, Barbados will be host to the region’s premier arts festival – the Caribbean Festival of Arts, popularly known as CARIFESTA. It is being produced under the theme “Asserting Our Culture, Celebrating Our Selves.” To date we have twenty countries registered to participate in the festival, and strong interest from seven others. We also have registration from five independent groups. The Grand Market and Buyers’ Shopping Mall is just about sold out.”
When it comes to films, 28 films are on the CARIFESTA timetable so far and as a result, Barbadians and visitors would have a wide scope of options to choose from when they come out to the Olympus Theatres, he said.
There would also be three movies night, one each in St. Lucy, St. George and Christ Church, said the Minister of Culture.
“CARIFESTA has several programme elements, one of which is film. To date we have 28 films of varying lengths registered for showing during the festival which covers about 50 per cent of the airtime allotted. As a result Barbadians and visitors alike will have an opportunity to see the work of film makers from across the region which will be on show right here at the Olympus Cinemas. There will also be three community Movie Nights: at Checker Hall, St. Lucy; the Glebe, St. George; and Dover, Christ Church. We ask that you keep these dates in mind and come out and support the CARIFESTA Film Festival and all the other offerings available.”
Lashley also thanked European Union (EU) delegation for this initiative as he said that it would not only provide local filmmakers with learning opportunities, but it would also serve as an avenue for more cultural exchanges between the EU and Barbados.
“I once again thank the Delegation of the European Union for adding to the cultural landscape of Barbados through this annual festival. I assure you that the occasion provided to view the films by international producers and exposure to new ideas, techniques and valuable information are very much appreciated and the opportunity for learning will not be squandered. We will also see this festival as a way of further forging inter-cultural exchanges between Barbados and the European Union.”