April 7th 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Raymona Henry-Wynne
Phone: (758) 457-9021
Email: raymonahenry-wynne@cdfstlucia.org
Website: www.cdfstlucia.org
A SAD DAY FOR DANCE AND DRUMMING IN SAINT LUCIA
On April 1st 2021, Saint Lucia lost yet another Cultural Icon, Anthony Jn Baptiste most affectionately known as “Cocky”. He dedicated his life to teaching and mentoring others in the genres of the arts he loved so dearly. According to colleague and friend Carlton Ishmael, “Cocky was a vibrant, dynamic and dominant performer who had abilities that most didn’t, which made him stand out. He was the only tap dancer on island and was self-taught.”
At the age of eight, Cocky joined the dance group Les Enfants in 1973. Twelve years later, he became the principal tutor and choreographer developing many of the prominent, affluent dancers that grace the stage today. His contribution to dance and drumming in Saint Lucia was immense and he had continuously given back to his people by teaching dance to many children at our preschools, primary and secondary schools and to adult dancers in dance academies and dance troupes. He actively facilitated and engaged young Saint Lucians at the CDF’s Annual Youth Summer Arts Platform. He performed at our local hotels, and at numerous National Festivals including Assou Square, National Carnival Activities, Festival of Lights and numerous other events on the national scale. He also attended festivals and workshops, both regionally and internationally in London, Jamaica, Venezuela and a number of Islands in the Region.
In the words of Christine Samuel, “Anthony “Cocky” Jn. Baptiste is a genuine professional Saint Lucian artiste who has dedicated his entire life to the practice of his craft as a career and in service to his homeland community.”
The Board, Management and Staff of the CDF expresses sincere condolences to his family, friends and creatives.
#RIP #RestInPower #RestInPeace
~~END~~
