CULTURAMA 2010 - NOTHING HAPPENED - A BIG NOTHING AND DISAPPOINTMENT. Nearly everyone, both natives and non-natives, have nothing nice to say about the 2010 version of Culturama. Everyone asks “Where is the culture?” A good question, since it is certainly not drag racing, swimware beauty contests and fashion shows which ape those one can see in the US and on TV – the Miss American pageant and the like.
Even beauty pageants in the US have come under heavy criticism because many women find them demeaning. I feel sorry for a visitor to Culturama who has spent a lot of money to see for the most part a copy of what can be seen and appears in the US.
To me, there are three events which come to mind when you talk about Nevis culture/tradition.The first is horse racing, which I am most familiar with. This dates back before 1940 when Mr. Arthur Evelyn was a jockey at the age of 12, and rode wonderful local horses.
I spoke to Mr. Evelyn and he remembers fondly horse races, as well as racing in Bath Village (near to where VON now is), Newcastle, Long point, and Butler's. The rumor is that the Nevis Turf and Jockey Club will have to move again, from Indian Castle, where it has been for over 25 years, to make room for a new hotel (Aman), and I believe it is time for our government to be straightforward about their intentions for this cultural tradition, which requires a great deal of investment and work with horses and facilities. And don't sandwich racing in between the J'ouvert Jump up and then a “Cool Down” which was added at the last minute.
The second is kaiso. It is good to see it has more than four events this year, so that is one local cultural activity that does receive attention.
The third is the masqueraders. I am sad to see that their place in the Culturama calendar was not even mentioned by name. The only reference was the “Street Parade”, and it received no promotion other than a one line mention in the calendar.
I would also like to point out that Nevis has a tradition of arts and crafts, from Newcastle pottery to the articles on display at the Nevis Craft House. Are fruit and vegetables part of this tradition and culture? I have given many gifts of Nevis crafts to friends and relatives over the years, and have many examples of Nevis pottery in my home. In short, this Culturama had very little to do with Nevis culture and traditions and the whole concept ought to be reviewed and revised.
Highlight and promote local traditional events, and do not crowd multiple activities into one day, so people have to skip one in favor of another. Not everyone wants to go on for the 11 days on this year's schedule. Most people would be happy with a far shorter period. And rename it Carnival if the intent ts not to showcase Nevis tradition and culture. There are many people who share my opinions, and would be willing to discuss these issues. All the next Culturama committee needs to do is contact a more diverse group of people who may have fresher and interesting ideas.
