BVI Calaloo Poets Shine in CARIFESTA X

~~Adz:Left~~Roadtown, Tortola- The BVI is shining in the area of literary arts in the 10th Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta X) as members of the Virgin Islands Callaloo poets captivated the audience during their performance last night at the Umana Yana in Guyana.

Four local poets, Mr. Natalio Wheatley, April Glasgow, Jerome Joseph and Linette Rabasatt were able to enchant their audiences as they recited their pieces with passion and vigour. Their book “V.I. Callaloo: Poems from the Caribbean” was launched on August 25 at the National Park, Thomas Lands.

Ms. Rabsatt told the Department of Information and Public Relations they appreciate the opportunity given to them by the Government specifically the Department of Culture.  “It is an ultimate blessing being here in Carifesta X.  This festival has given us the opportunity to meet other poets and artists and share our work with them so it is a total blessing to be here,” she said.

She added that they will be soon publishing another book dedicated entirely to love entitled “Black Love: The Love Ingredient”.

Director of Culture Mrs. Luce Hodge-Smith said the BVI participated in the area of Literary Arts in previous Carifestas by displaying the works of local artists but for the very first time they have been able to showcase on stage the Territory’s talent in this area.  “I must say that our poets have done a fantastic job during their performances,” she said.

Last evening’s event also showcased the work of poets from Guyana, Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.

The VI Callaloo poets’ book was first published in November 2006 and was officially launched in the British Virgin Islands in May 2007. The anthology of the “V.I. Callaloo: Poems from the Caribbean” arose from the Callaloo concept – a complete meal with different flavors.

The BVI team is participating in the Community Festival, Fashion Show, Book Display and art exhibition, where many of the BVI’s local artists’ books and paintings are on display from August 21 -31.

The Caribbean Festival of the Arts, which was first held in Guyana in 1970, is designed to showcase the region’s arts and culture. The theme this year is One Caribbean, One Purpose - Our Culture Our Life.