Dance is a language that continues to transcend through time – through generations of people, through our pain, joy, frustrations, rebellious eras and grand celebrations. Dance is what connects us, as humans, and it is a beautiful art of storytelling.
Five organisations, representing five countries, had the opportunity to share in a week of authentic fun while sharing our history and traditions through dance and non-formal education: Anguilla (Abba’s House), France (Nouvelles Perspectives- New Perspectives), St.Martin/St.Maarten (Caribbean Education and Cultural Foundation), Poland (Pozytywne Zmiany – Positive Changes) and Guadeloupe (CKB – Carine, Kelly, Betty NGO).
These five organisations, amidst a continuing worldwide pandemic, pushed through after being postponed for two years. Although it is currently difficult to create real relationships and share in a physical space, the project, headed by Luckas and Justyna Kielczewski, allowed participants to display their beloved songs and national dance. Dances like Kang Kang, Ponum, Bruckins, Pollenese and Gwoka, that are steeped in themes of coming of age, love, fertility and rebellion, allowed students to increase their language skills and develop an appreciation for each other’s’ history (war and slavery) and special customs (weddings).
It was interesting to experience how dance affect the composition of music; how song and dance affects other aspects of culture like food preparation, rum drinking, and our mannerisms. Also, the project undoubtedly allowed for open-minded, unadulterated networking, and relationship building that exceeded expectations.
Though our host country – Guadeloupe – experienced civil unrest (represented in their traditional dance), the group still managed to laugh, shout and DANCE FOR UNITY.
The Anguilla National Youth Council wishes to encourage the general public to join the Council, either on Facebook or Instagram, to become aware of, and even involved in, these amazing projects which are undoubtedly a means of national youth development.
A special thanks must be given to the Erasmus + Program project writers and managers – for a well-organised and unforgettable experience. Lastly, and most importantly, the Anguilla National Youth Council would also like to thank the Ministry of Social Development, AASPA, the Ministry of Health, Fun time Charters and the Department of Youth and Culture for their support and contribution towards the hosting of this project. We hope to continue to foster partnerships towards cultural continuation and creating sustainable living for all persons in Anguilla.
– Press Release
