There has been much support for a call for a theatrical arts centre in Anguilla, as well as for more artistes to become involved in the performing arts.
The call was made by Dr Ronya Foy-Connor, Gender Development Coordinator in the Ministry of Home Affairs. With considerable exposure to theatre and the cultural arts, the New York-born Mrs Foy-Connor was at the time delivering the feature address at the Sixteenth Annual Theatre Arts & Cultural Awards ceremony. The event was held at the Anguilla Great House Beach Resort on Saturday, February 7, by the Sunshine Theatre Company.
Dr Foy-Connor spoke about her early involvement in music and theatre in New York, and her continued exposure during her travels and sojourns in South Africa and elsewhere.
She told her listeners that her appreciation and respect for the arts had slowly developed, had now reached maturity and that she had even acquired a great love for the theatre arts. She noted that there was a need in Anguilla for more exposure to the arts, as well as for a performing centre.
“So let me ask you, then, where is this space for the arts in Anguilla as an essential element in exposing children and adults to the creative abilities that are inherent in each and everyone of us?” she questioned. “Where is the centre for arts in Anguilla similar to the Trinidad Theatre Workshop founded by Nobel Peace Prize winner Derek Walcott of St Lucia?
“Throughout the Caribbean islands, there are noted playwrights. Many islands, including Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Bermuda, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia and even little Montserrat, devastated by a volcano and with a population of only 6,000 – each of them boasts of at least seven resident playwrights. And in Anguilla, we have one – Mr Felix Fleming. We are certainly blessed because his works are enough for seven. But we also have to consider what mechanisms are in place to increase this number for Anguilla. What are we doing to unlock the creativity of the future noted playwrights of Anguilla?”
Dr Foy Connor continued: “When we think of theatre and the arts, we must think of it as a form of expression. However, we must also realize the work that goes into a well-produced and directed work of art. Some of the same life skills necessary for success are at the core of the performing arts. Learning the importance of discipline, commitment, responsibility and respect for yourself, and your team, are all attributes taught and perfected through the arts.
“So again, I ask, where is this space in Anguilla? Where is our core, our centre for the arts? Where can we teach these skills of discipline, create purpose and provide opportunities for creative expression? How are we supporting the actors of Anguilla, and providing food for thought for audience members?
“A performing arts centre in Anguilla is the perfect place for innovation and creativity. Imagine a place that you could go to on a weeknight, or a weekend, with the entire family or even alone, and see a short play by Sunshine Theatre, a variety show by the Mayoumba Folkloric Theatre, a poetry event by the Underground Poetry Club, or even a documentary film by a local or regional filmmaker. Think about how beneficial that would be for this entire island.
“Not only would such a facility educate and entertain the community, but it will provide opportunities for youth and interested adults to learn about stage management, the casting process, directing, producing, supporting roles, prop management, stage and lighting, set design and so much more. Involving youth in any phase of this process gives them a voice. It also gives us a glimpse into how they perceive themselves, what’s on their minds and provides an outlet for positive intervention, if needed.
“Through the arts we are opening up doors for locals and visitors of all ages. We are, in fact, providing an opportunity to define who we are and show one another what we care about. The arts provide a sense of the heartbeat of the nation. It is useful throughout the world – and in our society it can have a major impact on how we tell our story.”
