More support needed for Culturama 42

This year’s season would be observed under the theme, ‘Celebrating the old, showcasing the new, Culturama 42’ and would run from July 21 to August 2.

 

In a media interview, Chairman of the Culturama Committee Antonio ‘Abonati’ Liburd explained that over the years there has been tremendous support from several members of the corporate community, chief of which is the platinum premier sponsor, FLOW. He said there are however some areas that have been left wanting.

 

“There is still room for other sponsors to come on board because we are yet to attract sponsors for the Mr. Kool contest and so there is still room for other business partners to come onboard. And (there area) other little areas like the poets in the Square. 

 

“That has been a daytime activity that started in 2013 where we feature our local poets in the War Memorial Square during lunchtime…where people on their lunch break can come out and enjoy local poetry. We have not had a sponsor for that and so if corporate sponsors can come onboard and sponsor that event, we would welcome. So, yes, there is still room for sponsors.”

 

Liburd expressed that sometimes the task of getting individuals to participate in Culturama is akin to that of “pulling teeth”. He explained that with the launch of Culturama 42, scheduled to take place in just eight days, the full complement of contestant for two of the major shows has yet to be reached. He said the shows in question are the Miss Culture Queen Pageant and Mr. Kool Competition; an additional contestant for each is needed.

 

Late registration of troupes for the street activities is also another issue which Liburd said the Committee is experiencing.

 

“In terms of the troupes, we have seen late registration again this year for persons wanting to do troupes. I think thus far we have only had four adult troupes that have come forward…and so there is still some time available for persons to come onboard and to organize troupes.”

 

Interest and participation in the anticipated Cultural Food Fair has gained momentum Liburd indicated, and as such plans are being made for it to be extended and the name to be changed.

 

“What we have seen a lot of interest in, however, is the food fair, (which is) what we are now going to be rebranding to be the Arts Craft and Food Fair. Formally, we would say the Cultural Food Fair…we have seen increased interest in that Food Fair. We have had persons even from St. Kitts who have registered to be a part and that is very encouraging.”

 

Last year the Food Fair was held – for the first time – at Pinney’s Park and the Culturama Committee Chairman said the feedback from both the booth operators and patrons suggested that it finished too quickly. And because a calypso show was scheduled for the same evening and individuals were minded to remain at the Food Fair even after it had ended, Liburd said attendance of the calypso show was affected.

 

He said this year’s Food Fair would run from 10:00 a.m. on July 30 to 1:00 a.m. on the following day. He divulged that entertainment during the event would be provided by a top band from St. Kitts, a top band from Nevis and Soca artistes from both islands. And discussions are being held with a regional band which should also be providing musical entertainment.