As the Cultural Development Foundation commences another year of programming, the organization has unveiled its calendar of Programmes and Events for the 2016/2017 period. The launch took place on Thursday March 3rd at the organization’s Conference Room. In attendance were members of the media, corporate sponsors, arts lovers as well as members of staff of the CDF. In its efforts to promote the development of artistic expression and culture within the creative sector, the CDF will this year, shine a brighter spotlight on training and development as it continues to showcase the work of Saint Lucians in the arts and cultural community through events that we will host.
The Cultural Development Foundation has a long history of providing training and development opportunities for artistes and members of the public in the various genres of the Arts and Culture. In recent times, and specifically in the last two years since its restructuring and relaunch CDF and more specifically the Department of Training, Promotion and Development has made its primary focus the development and implementation of a more structured, more systematic programme of training activities with direct relevance to the development of the Arts and Culture in our St. Lucian community, our Caribbean and International region. Our training programmes have therefore undergone review and revamping and what is emerging is a complex set of initiatives that provide sound opportunities for the honing of interests, talent and abilities, the refreshing, enhancing and of eventual mastering of artistic and performing skills.
~ Celeste Burton, Director for Training, Promotion and Development
The National Arts Festival (NAF) will be the first major activity to be undertaken by the CDF for 2016 and plans are underway to engage the public in an innovative mix of creativity and unique display of talent in the communities of Micoud (Thursday 14th April), Vieux Fort (Saturday 23rd April) and Soufriere (Saturday 30th April). Director for Events and Productions, Drenia Frederick commenting on the role that the arts play in the development of society, remarked, “…we should create our own stock phrase, ‘Art Matters’. The events that the CDF develops and stages is a representation of our people, our understanding pf ourselves and our passion for art, music, dance and drama… (We will) take you on a journey, reacquainting you with our traditions and (presenting) new trends in all genres of the Arts, illustrating that ‘Art Matters’ – it creates the moments that define the very heart of our society; it speaks of innovation, creativity and the strength of community.”
The Cultural Development Foundation invites the public to listen out for upcoming training activities as well as events via its media partners. Persons may also wish to call the CDF office on 457 9021 or visit the website for updates on programmes and events (www.cdfstlucia.org).