Anguilla’s rich creative spirit took centre stage on Saturday, 13th December 2025, as the 9th Annual National Culture and Arts Awards was held at the Aurora Anguilla Resort. The prestigious evening, also known as The Rock Awards, brought together government officials, cultural practitioners, families, supporters and stakeholders in a momentous celebration of those who have dedicated their lives to preserving, promoting and advancing Anguillian culture and the arts.
The evening’s tone was set by chairperson and reigning Miss Anguilla 2025, Jasmine Ruan, who in her welcome remarks reminded the audience that the awards were rooted in togetherness. “Tonight is really about community. About coming together to enjoy the music, the movement, the art, the stories that make us who we are,” she said. “Whether you’re an artist, a nominee, a supporter, or someone who simply loves our culture, your presence here adds the magic to this moment.”

The National Culture and Arts Awards recognise individuals whose commitment has left an indelible mark on Anguilla’s cultural landscape. Fittingly, recipients are presented with The Rock Award itself — a symbolic and literal piece of Anguilla that embodies the island’s strength, resilience and creativity.
This year, five individuals were honoured across several categories spanning participation, leadership, innovation and lifetime achievement in culture and the arts.

Veteran musician Lanvol ‘Pantha’ Hughes received the Performing Arts Award for Participating in and Promoting Culture and Arts. With a remarkable 34-year journey in music, Hughes began performing at just 16 years old with local bands before founding Pantha Vibes International in 2007. His enduring contribution to Anguillian music has been marked by multiple Road March Champion titles and a steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting the island’s cultural heritage.

Amber Woodley was recognised with the Creative Community Engagement and Collaboration Award for Developing and Leading Culture and Arts. Described as a lifelong student, practitioner and teacher of culture, Woodley is the founding member of the All-Ah-Wee Young Theatre Company and the From Within Dance Company. A former pageant queen and the 2025 chairperson of the Miss Anguilla Pageant Committee, she has represented Anguilla locally, regionally and internationally, both on stage and behind the scenes.
The Innovative Creatives Award was presented to Alexis Ryan, a cultural ambassador and creative visionary whose influence on Anguilla’s performing arts and cultural expression is far-reaching. Ryan’s work spans fashion design, performance, mentorship and pageantry, where he has played a vital role in shaping Anguilla’s presence across the region. His multifaceted contribution continues to expand how Caribbean identity is expressed and celebrated.
Emerging soca artiste Viglef “Viggy” Gumbs received the One to Watch Award, recognising his growing impact on Anguilla’s music scene. Gumbs began his musical journey at the age of 12 in local bands before branching out as a solo artist. His efforts to put Anguilla’s soca music on the map have already borne fruit, with back-to-back Groovy Soca Monarch titles in 2024 and 2025.
The evening’s highest honour, the Cultural and Artistic Lifetime Achievement Award, was bestowed upon Renford Kelsick for decades of dedicated service to Anguilla’s cultural development. Kelsick played an instrumental role in the early organisation and implementation of Anguilla Summer Festival, then known simply as Anguilla’s Carnival. As president of the Lions Club in the 1980s, he helped secure financial support that led to significant improvements at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre. His contributions have extended to numerous Summer Festival committees and the hosting of countless cultural shows, with his passion still evident through participation in the Klassique Old Timers Troupe.

Delivering the feature address, Honourable Minister Shellya Rogers-Webster emphasised that culture is far more than entertainment. “Culture is not just a luxury. It is a living art of our nation. It is how we remember who we are, tell our stories and celebrate our differences and build our future together,” she said. Congratulating the awardees, the Minister noted that their work not only preserves tradition but also pushes Anguilla forward creatively and economically. “Culture is also an economic asset… but more than that, culture is our social capital. It strengthens community ties, heals wounds and offers young people pathways to self-expression and progress.”

Chair of the Selection Committee, Jacqueline Bryan, provided insight into the rigorous nomination and evaluation process, grounding her remarks in reflections on creativity and courage. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she said, “A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the souls of its people,” adding that the awards were not simply about accolades, but about affirming the soul of Anguilla. She explained that nominations spanned multiple categories and segments, with each submission carefully reviewed to ensure fairness, integrity and high standards. “After careful discussion, scoring and systematic evaluation, the committee reached a unanimous and harmonious decision,” she shared.

The ceremony was also enriched by cultural performances, including an opening dance by Women of Dance and a stirring saxophone performance by Elliot Gumbs. One of the most poignant moments of the night came when honouree Alexis Ryan delivered a spoken word poem celebrating Anguilla’s people, creativity and pride, describing the island as “the jewel of the Leeward Islands” and its people as “proud… with a level of pride in their country that is bigger than their country.”

Closing remarks were delivered by Avon Carty, who expressed gratitude to the Government of Anguilla and the Ministry of Social Development for their continued support of the cultural sector. Acknowledging the often unseen labour behind such initiatives, she thanked those working tirelessly within the Department of Youth and Culture – particularly its Culture Division – to ensure that Anguilla’s cultural bearers are recognised and celebrated.

As the curtains fell on the 9th Annual National Culture and Arts Awards, it was clear that Anguilla’s culture remains vibrant because of the people who guard it, shape it and pass it on. On this night, those individuals were rightfully honoured — not only for what they have done, but for the legacy they continue to build for generations to come.

Anguilla hosted the first-ever Music Tourism Convention to be held in the Caribbean. The landmark gathering, staged at the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club from 5th – 6th November 2025, brought together international and Caribbean leaders in culture, tourism, and the creative industries. Organised by the Government of Anguilla — through the Department of Youth and Culture — in partnership with Music Cities Events and Sound Diplomacy, the two-day event signalled Anguilla’s intention to position music not only as entertainment, but as a strategic economic force.
“This convention marks an exciting new chapter for Anguilla — one where the worlds of music and tourism meet not by coincidence, but by design,” said the Hon. Minister of Health, Tourism & Sports, Cardigan Connor, in his welcome remarks. “Visitors are no longer just looking for places to stay; they are seeking places that move them… And in that sense, Anguilla is already blessed. Music is woven into the very soul of this island.”

He added that building a sustainable creative economy requires more than hosting events. It requires policy, infrastructure, training, and investment. “[The Government of Anguilla] is fully committed to developing the framework that supports this growth… to ensure that Anguilla continues to be recognised not only for its beauty and hospitality, but for its vibrant cultural pulse.”

The convention arrived at a time when global music tourism is booming. From “gig tripping” to cities transformed by superstar residencies, the global music tourism market — valued at US$5.5 billion in 2022 — is projected to double by 2032. In the Caribbean, where icons from Bob Marley to Rihanna have long shaped global perceptions, music remains one of the region’s most powerful cultural exports.

The convention’s first major panel, “Anguilla Music Ecosystem – Where Are We Now?”, moderated by Bonnie Richardson-Lake, dug into the realities of Anguilla’s creative landscape. The conversation brought together four major figures: veteran musician Bankie Banx, producer and entrepreneur Davon Carty, artist Rebecca “Queen B” Webster, and owner of 360 Artistry Ivan Berry.

Their verdict was clear: Anguilla has talent, history, and heart — but not yet a functioning music industry.

“In Anguilla, we have a brilliant entertainment scene,” Ivan said plainly. “We do not have a music industry. We do not have an industry that’s the business of music.” He argued that heavy reliance on hotel gigs, where performers often sing mostly cover songs, can limit artistic growth. “When you spend a lot of time performing in hotels, your performance becomes very cruise-ship-ish… the songs don’t have the level of edge and creativity it takes to be really successful.”

Bankie Banx agreed, saying Anguilla already has all the ingredients but lacks structure and investment. “We’re not putting the resources in the right places,” he said. “There are no lighting engineers. No performing arts centre. No hotel on this island has a stage for a band.”

Queen B offered a frontline perspective, balancing realism with pride. “I am one of those hotel singers… but I bring much of myself,” she said. Still, she acknowledged that Anguilla is “absolutely not where we should be,” calling for greater professionalism, copyright protection, and mentorship for young performers.

Davon recounted his journey with British Dependency, a band that fought to perform original music in venues dominated by guest preferences for familiar tunes. “I don’t think people understand how important it is to a society — the British Dependencies, the Omaris, the Bankies…how important they are in terms of impacting the youth.”

Across the panel, one consistent message also stood out. Without government support, strategic investment, and education in the business of music, Anguilla risks leaving its creative potential untapped.

Ivan put it bluntly: “All music equipment should be tax and duty free.” He also stressed the need for music business education in schools and mandatory local music quotas for radio — policies used successfully in other Caribbean nations and Canada.

Conversation often returned to a deeper issue: the way society perceives its own creatives. “I toured with a band called British Dependency. When I come back home, there’s always one question that most Anguillians ask me: ‘Them had like aya?’ Which says a lot. We don’t believe in ourselves,” Davon reflected. “We think the rest of the world doesn’t either. Well, I’m here to say that we are magnificent artists.”

Bankie highlighted another long-standing problem: the undervaluing of musicians. “There is a tendency to think that if you’re an artist or musician… you need another job. They don’t understand the hours of work behind what you see.”

Ivan also noted a functioning music industry relies on far more than singers and performers. He stressed that young people need access to training and pathways not only as artists, but as the lawyers, accountants, publicists, stylists, managers, photographers, and technical professionals who form the backbone of a thriving creative sector. With these roles in place, he explained, Anguilla could foster globally touring artists, export its culture, and generate new streams of foreign revenue.

From infrastructure to mindset, panellists stressed that change requires both community and government engagement—and long-term commitment.

Day 1 also featured a presentation by John Copeland and Connie Kinnard of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, offering insights into how major destinations leverage culture to build global brands.

Kinnard pointed to Miami’s diversity as its cultural engine, noting that music tourism thrives on authentic experiences and local stories. She underscored that music tourism boosts economies not only through major concerts but through the visibility it provides to emerging artists, neighbourhoods, and community spaces. “It’s not limited to large-scale events,” she noted. “It gives the opportunity for the person that plays the saxophone on the corner to elevate.”

For Anguilla, the industry can only grow if the entire ecosystem — artists, venues, promoters, cultural institutions, educators, and government—moves together.

Beyond the headline sessions, the convention also featured an extensive programme of additional panel discussions, workshops, and presentations, including:

• Strengthening Music Tourism in the Caribbean

• Carnivals & Festivals as a Music Tourism Tool

• Music Awards Hosting and Tourism Development

• Bringing Local Music Genres into Tourism Strategies

• Why Professional Music Ecosystems Are the Foundation of Music Tourism in Anguilla

These sessions offered deeper insight into how Anguilla – and other island nations – can collaborate, how cultural celebrations can drive visitor engagement, and how professionalisation within the creative sectors can unlock long-term economic potential. As the Hon. Minister Connor said, “Let us imagine a future where Anguilla’s rhythm becomes part of the global soundtrack of travel and culture.”

If you were looking for proof that the youth of Anguilla are alive with talent, heart, and rhythm, then the Christian Fellowship Church on Thursday 26th June 2025 was the only place to be. The occasion? The DCC Music Studio’s CSEC Music Candidates 2025 Recital, a night that may have technically been a student showcase – but in spirit and sound, felt more like a world-class concert with all the soul of home.

From the moment the students made their entrance, there was no doubt the audience was in for something special. The 2025 candidates, joined by their 2023 predecessors and fresh-faced 2026 hopefuls, marched in a processional that set the tone: elegant, unified, and full of anticipation.

The evening was chaired by music educator at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School and also one of the CSEC examiners, Ms. Lois Hazell. The pews were filled with family, friends, music lovers, and a healthy dose of government officials – because when young people shine, the whole country ought to show up. Among those present were Hon. Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Cordell Richardson, Ministerial Assistant Mr. Jeison Bryan, Hon. Minister of Infrastructure Mr. Jose Vanterpool, AUF District 5 Candidate Mr. Davon Carty, and Opposition Member Hon. Mr. Merrick Richardson.

Mrs. Hamewatie Narine first offered a thoughtful reflection on what it means to study music. “Music is more than just notes on a paper,” she reminded us. “It is a universal language that transcends boundaries, evokes emotions and speaks to the very soul of humanity.”

Ms. Hazell offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the demanding nature of the CSEC music programme, describing it as an intense academic and creative journey. Students must complete a School-Based Assessment that includes analysing eight audio ads, prepare a solo with matching scales and arpeggios, and perform an ensemble piece. For the final exam, they present a three-year portfolio, showcase their musical growth, and perform original compositions and arrangements live.
“It’s very intense,” Ms.?Hazell admitted, urging the audience to applaud these young talents whose results, though not yet released, she confidently predicted to be strong.

Somaiya Banks, daughter of beloved local reggae legend Omari Banks, opened the floor and set the bar sky-high. Her solo piano rendition of Joanna MacGregor’s “Lowside Blues” was a rich, smoky delight, followed by a charismatic ensemble performance of George Benson’s “Breezin,” where she swapped the piano for an electric guitar while her sister, Ashe, grounded the piece with cool finesse on the bass. The crowd demanded an encore – so the sisters obliged, delivering a soulful cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” that earned roaring applause.

Lerique Richardson took the stage next with the calm confidence of someone who knows his music speaks louder than words. His solo, Hummel’s “Scherzo,” was a challenging pick, and though he faltered briefly, he recovered with the quiet strength of a true musician. He then switched to the recorder for a groovy ensemble arrangement of Camila Cabello’s “Havana”.

Sharvin Narine, one half of the island’s own musical duo 1264 Island Boys, brought the audience from Vienna to Sandy Ground in the span of two songs. First, he delivered Beethoven’s timeless “Für Elise” with precision and poetic flair, then he spun the mood entirely with “Pan Fusion” by Anguilla’s own Michael ‘Dumpa’ Martin, a piece that popped with colour, rhythm, and a palpable sense of island joy.

But beyond the performances were the students’ original compositions and arrangements. Each student also presented imaginative original works.

Somaiya reimagined “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” as a versatile tune, while her piece “The Triumph” offered a powerful orchestral narrative of war and peace. Lerique turned “Insy Bitsy Spider” into a colourful musical adventure and his original “Whispers of the Night” blended suspense and hope. Sharvin’s “Mary Had a Little Lamb” marched through multiple genres with lively flair, and “Whispers of the Ember Path” told a magical, cinematic tale of transformation.

Though absent, 2025 candidate, Khai Smith impressed with his animated arrangement of “Old MacDonald” and the reflective, forest-set journey of “War Dreams”.

Throughout the evening, younger DCC Music Studio students alongside all past, present and future CSEC candidates, graced the stage under the baton of the ever-inspiring Mrs. Daphne Jacobs-Richardson. Their renditions of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” and Bach’s “March” on the recorder were crisp, proud, and full of youthful charm.

The night closed with certificates handed out to all 38 DCC Music Studio students, a proud pat on the back for months (and years) of dedication and practice.

Needless to say, this year’s recital was a resounding success. As the students sashayed out of the building, their certificates in hand and faces beaming with pride, it was clear to all in attendance that Anguilla’s musical future is not only secure – it is brilliantly bright.

Article by Janissa Fleming

On Sunday 17th December at 6:30 pm the Anguilla Methodist Circuit gathered at the historic Ebenezer Chapel to celebrate its annual Festival of Choirs, one of the preeminent events on the Church’s Advent Calendar of Activities. This year, the Festival of Choirs, which was presented under the theme “Come Let Us Worship the King” focused on the First Advent and the Miracle of the First Christmas, but also drew attention to the coming Second Advent when Christ would return to the earth, not as a helpless innocent pure baby, but as a conquering King and Judge of all the Ages.
Presentations in the 2- hour-long program which was chaired by the Superintendent Minister, Rev. Vincia Celestine, featured not only the anthems by the Choirs and various Organizations of the Congregations of the Circuit, but also a number of solo and group presentations in Song and Dance and Spoken Word, all complemented by the sterling support of the Circuit’s band of talented and versatile musicians. Brief remarks by Rev. Celestine reminded the appreciative audience to hold on to the true reason for the Advent Season and the Christmas Celebrations as bearing homage to Jesus our Incarnate God, Redeemer and King, as well as a reminder to prepare for the soon-coming Second Advent when the King would return to earth in triumph at a date and time unknown to humankind.
Christmas Celebrations with the Anguilla Methodist Circuit continue on December 25th at 5:00 am when congregations around the island join in the traditional Christmas Morning Celebration of the Birth of the Christ Child, and culminate on Sunday evening, December 31 at 10:30 pm when congregations say farewell to the Old Year and usher in the New Year with the traditional Watch Night Service in all congregations. A warm and enthusiastic invitation is extended to all to join us in the Chapel of your choice for these Christ-centred Celebrations as we ensure that Christ remains at the heart of our Christmas in 2023 and beyond.

The Music Ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mount Fortune has conducted its second annual Musical Extravaganza. The grand event culminated with a high-quality gospel concert on Sunday 16th July, 2023, in the church’s sanctuary, under the theme “God is Good; Let’s Praise Him”.
Last year (in 2022), the church’s first Musical Extravaganza was a phenomenal success. Thanks to one of the church’s music enthusiasts, Vernon Rogers, contact was made in Maryland, USA, with three musical experts to come to the island to particularly train and prepare a local combined choir – drawn from various denominational backgrounds – in the rudiments of music, singing and gospel concert performance. The focus, however, was on effectively worshipping the Lord with praises and joy in His sanctuary.

This year (2023) again, the trio comprising of Zina Johnson, Marcus Smith and Edmond Charles gracefully returned to do it all over again. Zina Johnson is an anointed Psalmist, Songwriter, and Choir Director who turns her testimony into song. Marcus Smith is a Psalmist, Chorale Director, Teacher, and Arranger who serves as Minister of Music at Ark Church, in Baltimore Maryland. Edmond Charles is a professional Pianist, Organist, and Musical Accompanist.

The three engaged the choir in intense training sessions and musical workshops that extended over a four-day period beginning on the evening of Wednesday 12th July and ending late in the night on Saturday 15th July.

Then, on Sunday at 5:00 pm, the concert enraptured the auditorium in an ambiance of praise and worship as the choir performed in ministry, utilizing all that they had assimilated during their training. Directed by Zina and Marcus, the Mass Choir of thirty-seven rendered several songs of praise to God the Father and to Jesus Christ His son. The exuberant performances reflected precision in note formation, merging with excellence in the musical accompaniment of the band, led by Edmond.

Choir renditions which blessed and inspired the audience included “Let Everything that Has Breath” by Twinkie Clark Terrel; “Thou Oh Lord” by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir; and “Day and Night Praise”, by Margaret Doureax, among others.

The song “There is no Way”, by Ricky Dillard was also featured by choir member Alaina Carty, while her sister Akema rendered Jen Johnson’s “Goodness of God. In addition, an original, “Hallelujah Amen”, written by Zina Johnson was featured by James Harrigan.

Guest Artists included Evan Webster and Melodious Praise. Zina Johnson herself took to the stage to deliver a stirring version of “It is Well With my Soul” which made an astounding impact on the appreciative audience.

Spearheading the Musical Extravaganza activities was the Church’s Music Coordinator, Marcia Hodge. She and her committee thanked a number of entities and individuals for contributing to the success of Musical Extravaganza 2023.

These included the Pastor and Board Members of the SDA Church; Monique Webster; Amethyst Saunders; Anthony Dolphin; Felicia Hill and Company of HillComSpec; Frederick Harrigan; Island Car Rental; Gratel Webster; Vernon Rogers; Mary’s Bakery; Shefoo Webster; Keith “Stone” Greaves; Radio Anguilla; Brother Lee; Kool FM; Kemrun Tisson; Samuel Gillis; Agnita Paris; Melodious Praise; Algernon & Maria Webster; Othlyn & Greta Vanterpool; The Planning and Fundraising Committee; and the facilitators, Zina Johnson, Marcus Smith and Edmond Charles.

Musical Extravaganza 2023 was a special time of spiritual refreshing and fellowship; and Marcia Hodge and the Planning Committee are already looking forward, with great enthusiasm to hosting Musical Extravaganza 2024.

On the evening of Monday 26 June, 2023, DCC Music Studio presented in recital, a Showcase of Talents by CSEC Music Candidates 2023 – the first of its kind.

The evening began with a prelude of students’ compositions projected on screen with playbacks from a music software –MuseScore prior to 6:30 pm. This display of work was well received by the audience and was followed by a rendition of Sinach- He Did it Again sung by 5 students of DCC Music studio for the processional of candidates. The opening prayer was delivered by Pastor Kathleen Richardson, followed by a rendition of the national anthem played on trombone by Kasem

Thompson and accompanied by Devaunie Richardson. The national song was sung by Michealanne Benjamin and Shaumelle Hodge, accompanied by Khorey Barrett on piano. The opening remarks were presented by Michealanne Benjamin who established the protocol and introduced the chairperson, Ms. Lois Hazell.

Ms. Hazell gave a brief overview of the CSEC Music program. She spoke about the SBA moderation exercise which requires students to perform one solo piece, scale and arpeggio and one ensemble piece graded both by music teacher and the moderator. She explained that weeks later a practical exam follows requiring candidates to perform their 2nd solo piece, scale and arpeggio and conduct a live performance of an original composition or an arrangement of a simple piece (e.g. a nursery rhyme) transcribed by candidates. During this practical exam candidates must also submit their Composition and Arrangement portfolio with full scores and audio recordings of their arrangement and composition. They must also complete a viva voce exercise with varied questions asked by examiner on scores in their performance portfolio which is a compilation of ensemble and solo pieces usually covered from 3rd to 5th form. Candidates also provide feedback as a storyline on their arrangement and composition.

The highlight of the evening was the eight CSEC candidates performing solo and ensemble pieces of varied genres and conducting a live performance of their arrangement played by musicians which included past CSEC Music students, music teachers and civil servants. Those who played steelpan were accompanied by music teacher Casey Richardson.

ZuJian Elvis Wu performed on French horn and double tenor steelpan, Aidin Richardson on piano and clarinet, Jelani Gumbs on alto saxophone and double tenor steelpan, Amiyah Carry on piano and recorder, Rayvia Hodge on piano and violin, Richard Grant on electric bass, Najique Davis Edwards on piano and electric bass and Khorey Barrett on piano and alto saxophone. All students delivered their renditions beautifully, with confidence and style. The appreciative audience appeared to enjoy the performances tremendously with smiles on their faces and in some cases rocking to the beats.

Certificates of Appreciation were then distributed by owner of DCC Music studio Mrs. Daphne Jacobs Richardson and parent Mrs. Rochelle Grant.

Mrs. Chanelle Petty Barrett, parent of one of the candidates, presented the Vote of Thanks. Special mention was made of Cordane Richardson, son of Corvette Richardson and Daphne Jacobs Richardson who offered a course in composition to candidates of DCC Music studio and to Daphne Jacobs Richardson, owner and tutor of DCC Music Studio for staging this recital.

The program concluded with an ensemble performance of Canon in D by Pachabel presented by the eight candidates. They performed on keyboard, bass guitar, clarinet, French horn and different families of the well-known Baroque instrument -the recorder – namely descant alto, tenor and bass recorders. There were also a few MuseScore playbacks of candidates Arrangement and Compositions.

The recital was well attended, and many persons spoke highly of the students’ performances. One person said, “I was thrilled and impressed by all the performances.” Others described it as, “an absolutely amazing experience,” “a really great evening,” “the variety and versatility was off the charts,” “it was indeed a classy event” and “a great job by students”.

DCC Music Studio would like to thank all persons who attended the recital and for those who were unable but sent well wishes.

When asked about the CSEC Music program Mrs. Jacobs Richardson commented, “It began in 2003 with the first group sitting their exams in 2005. This subject has quite a number of requirements to be fulfilled by candidates, which require proper planning and execution with dedication and commitment to tasks both by teacher and candidates. I encourage all to continue with an unwavering passion to promote music education in Anguilla.”

A team of gospel musicians arrived on the island this week from Washington, DC, to conduct a special concert at the Mount Fortune Seventh-day Adventist Church on Sunday evening, 24th July. The concert, dubbed “The Return”, is organized by a committee led by SDA’s Choir Director, Marcia Hodge.
The visiting team of musicians includes: Zina Johnson, the Choir Director and Psalmist; Edmond Charles, the Organist; and Marcus Smith, the Pianist. All three gospel music enthusiasts were meticulously chosen for the occasion by an ardent music leader of the church, Vernon Elrado “Rado” Rogers, a well known Anguillian who resides in Baltimore, Maryland. Mr. Rogers commented on his selection of the visiting musicians and expectations for Sunday evening’s event:

“The local churches Director, Marcia Hodge approached me some time ago,” he said, “asking me to assist her in organising a special musical event for the church. She wanted this to be a concert with a higher level of performance created by gospel music professionals. I sing with the Baltimore Community Choir, and I am privileged to know skilful performers in the gospel music area. So I set about selecting the best individuals with whom I am familiar.

“I think these three individuals, Zina, Edmond and Marcus, are ideal performers/ministers for what we intend to present to the public on Sunday night,” Rado remarked. “People sometimes forget that gospel music is a sermon – it is not a show. We are going to prove that on Sunday evening.

“We expect a great turnout for “The Return”, when we will reveal that gospel music is a force to reckon with, as long as it is presented with the anointing of the Holy Spirit. We intend to impact the audience with a rich gospel-oriented musical experience.

The concert, “The Return”, will take place on Sunday evening at 5:00 at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mount Fortune. A love offering will be collected.

The main room of the Anguilla Music Academy was set with cocktail tables covered with orange and white tablecloths for the welcome reception of the World Doctors Orchestra & Emily Bear, on Tuesday evening.

The World Doctors Orchestra, founded in 2008, combines the pleasure of fine music with global medical responsibility. Three or four times a year some 100 physicians from 60 different countries exchange their white coats for evening attire and perform a benefit concert for medical aid projects.

Emily Bear, now 20 years-old, became a published composer at the age of four. She has won the ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award twice, been featured on the Ellen Show, and has traveled the world – playing piano and composing music.

Members of the orchestra and Emily, their families, and friends shook hands and Premier Ellis Lorenzo Webster along with other cabinet ministers, local musicians and stakeholders for the first time, signifying new possibilities in music and tourism on the island.

Forty members of the orchestra, lead by conductor and founder Stefan Willich, will be performing classical music accompanied with jazz on piano by Emily Bear on Saturday, 7pm at the Mount Fortune Seventh Day Adventist Church. Local artists – Omalie 360, Omari Banks, Myisha Letang, Dr. Stern Willich, Jaine Rogers, Alaina Carty and St. Augustine’s Chorale – will also be performing.

Throughout the week leading up to the concert, the orchestra will be hosting master classes in music and medicine to support Anguilla’s youth and practicing hard for the upcoming concert. Emily Bear and her mother Andrea Bear, who visited the island and experienced its culture a number of times in the past eight years, came up with the idea to have the concert in Anguilla. Andrea Bear enquired of Janine Edwards of Sunset Homes and Lennox Vanterpool of Morlens School of Music, if Anguilla would be interested in having the world orchestra come to the island to perform a concert to help bring awareness, raise money and share their music.

Mrs. Bear noted: “They said yes! So I called up Setefan, the conductor, founder and brainchild [of the World Doctors Orchestra] and explained the situation. Stefan said yes, without hesitation; and here we are!”

Emily Bear added: “We came to Anguilla for the first time six or seven years ago, and our family instantly fell in love with the people, the culture and how incredible the musicians are. It has become a place very near and dear to our hearts. When we realised there had never been an orchestra in Anguilla, it just made so much sense.”

The Honourable Haydn Hughes gave remarks during the reception saying: “This is the first of its kind on the most beautiful, warm weather destination on the planet and the undisputed culinary capital of the Caribbean. I am happy to see this goal manifest into reality and I congratulate you all for accomplishing the same. May God continue to bless your fingers, your lungs and your vocal chords, thank you.”

The welcome reception ended with music performances by Omari Banks and Bankie Banks. Omari dedicated his song, Moving On to Emily Bear who listened closely – with her elbows on table and chin resting in her hands. Bankie Banks offered the crowd catharsis with his blues.

The Morlens School of Music, Sunset Homes, The Music Academy, CSuite Business Consulting and The Anguilla Tourist Board collaborated to make the reception possible.

Morlens School of Music, The Anguilla Music Academy, Sunset Homes, and CSuite Business Consulting, have united to bring a first of its kind, world-class orchestral musical event to Anguilla on stage on January 22, 2022. Featuring the 40-member World Doctors Orchestra, conducted by Artistic Director Stefan Willich, the benefit concert will feature Grammy nominated pianist and composer Emily Bear and premier local artists and musicians including Omalie360, Jaine Rogers, Myisha Letang, Alaina Carty and The St. Augustine Chorale. This one night only performance will be open to attendance for Anguilla’s residents and visitors. In addition, the concert will be streamed around the world, shining an international spotlight on Anguilla.

The World Doctors Orchestra members consist of medical doctors who are also professional musicians, who travel from all corners of the globe to unite in concerts to benefit local communities around the world.

Anguilla has a rich cultural heritage of music and this small island exceeds its weight in terms of musical talent and creative output emanating from this vibrant nation. Anguilla, ranked for several consecutive years as No. 1 on the Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards List for Top Islands, will proudly feature premier local musicians and artists from the island performing alongside visiting international musicians to create beautiful music together – truly creating a night to remember!

Anguillian vocalists Omalie360, Jaine Rogers, Myisha Letang and Alaina Carty will be making their orchestral debut singing in several numbers with the World Doctors Orchestra, conducted by artistic director, Stefan Willich. The St. Augustine Chorale, directed by Lennox Vanterpool, will also be performing several songs with the orchestra and soloists. The concert will also feature the World Premiere of a new work for orchestra, piano and choir composed by GRAMMY Nominee, Emily Bear, conducted by Dr. Noreen Green.

The concert will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022, at 7 pm at the Mount Fortune Seventh Day Adventist Church. Entrance is free, and donations are welcomed.

The event is non-profit in nature and aimed at showcasing Anguilla on the world stage and stimulating and creating networking and collaboration opportunities for one of our main tourism pillars – the music industry.

Members of the orchestra will also host master classes for local youth musicians and medical students, creating valuable networking opportunities. This initiative will give rise to many exciting off-shoot future opportunities for our local musical and medical sectors and will bring repeat and future visitors to the island.

Lennox Vanterpool, Founder/Director of Morlens School of Music, says: “We at the Morlens School of Music are thrilled to be collaborating with WDO, Emily Bear and our local organising committee principals to make this event possible. Even beyond the one-of-a-kind concert, we are also excited about the potential collaborations and capacity building opportunities that this extraordinary moment will present for our young musicians and Anguilla as a whole. Music makes everything possible indeed!”

Proceeds from the concert will be donated to Anguillian music initiatives to continue to develop and support local talent on the island. The Anguilla Community Foundation will be handling the finance process for this initiative.

A special thank you is extended to our sponsors who have committed to supporting this world-class performance and cause:

? Platinum: World Doctors Orchestra, Emily Bear, Morlens School of Music, Anguilla Music Academy, Sunset Homes, CSuite Business Consulting

? Gold: Digicel, Anguilla Tourist Board, 5Starmedia.ai, Austin’s Violin Shop, Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club, Anguilla Community Foundation and IN Anguilla

? Silver: National Commercial Bank of Anguilla, Titanium Audio Visual, IWAS and Confetti Dust

? Bronze: Tranquility Beach Resort, Anguilla Rotary Club, Anguilla Social Security Board, Anguilla Development Board, The Department of Youth and Culture, The Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association, Axcess.ai, Best Buy Supermarket, Lloyds Live, Belmond Cap Juluca Hotel, BEP Services, Villa Nevaeh, Malliouhana Hotel, Chinnicks and generous US-based donors of musical instruments.

We welcome and encourage all corporate and community members to take this opportunity to support us through sponsorship and attendance to help make this event a grand success!

For more information, please contact Janine Edwards at 1-264-235-3666 or sunsethomesanguilla@gmail.com or Lennox Vanterpool at 1-264-476-4514 or lennoxvanterpool@gmail.com.
– Press Release

All contenders received participatory medals, and gift vouchers redeemable at Anguilla Electronics. In addition to winning trophies, the winners received gift vouchers from Coral Reef Bookstore sponsored by the Department of Youth and Culture valued at $350, $250 and $200 for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place respectively.

The Inter-Primary School Calypso Competition, under this year’s theme “Live the Legacy”, was designed to expose primary school students to the Calypso art form, and offer them avenues for positive artistic expression. The organising committee comprised of the Department of Youth and Culture, The Platinum Band, and many supporting calypsonians. The Department would again like to thank The Platinum Bank, parents, mentors, the schools and teacher reps, FLOW, DITES, and InAnguilla for supporting our nation’s youth in this endeavour.
Contenders music can be heard on all local radio stations, and the show can still be viewed on InAnguilla’s facebook page for a small fee of US$5.00.

– Press Release

Ms. Lois Hazell is the Founder and Director of the novel Anguilla National Choir which has performed immaculately at several formal and national events in recent times. She is also a prolific musician and music instructor.

On the evening of Sunday, November 1st, at the St. Gerard’s Roman Catholic Church, the National Choir featured a display of classical music talents by some of Anguilla’s best, young musical enthusiasts. The event demonstrated a brilliant spectacle of rich musical giftings bestowed upon each of the youthful artists who are astute in their discipline for music, generally, and classical music in particular.

The evening brought to the fore Anguilla’s best in classical performances that stretched over a long list of budding artists like: Akira Rogers on the bass clarinet; Kyiv Edwards, Casey Richardson, Angelique Rogers, Klein Harrigan and Michael Martin on the saxophone; Tiandra Carty, Sharianne Francis and Nandi Edwards on the flute; Kamal Vanterpool on the piano; Tyree Peters on the clarinet, as well as he and Kasem Thompson displaying their vocals. There was also a steel pan combo performance which crowned off the evening — the grand finale. This last item gained intense cheers and elongated applause, and it comprised players like Akira Rogers, Daneice Hodge and Michael Martin who reproduced Bach’s Jazz Sonata.
The appreciative audience was just as enthused as the performers themselves. Signs of amazement flooded most faces, as if to say, “we would have hardly believed this Broadway type of talent was in Anguilla.” Each and every piece played was met with hearty approval, evidenced by lively applause.

The Anguillian spoke with Ms. Hazell following the event. She stated: “This evening was a classical evening where we featured composers from the classical period. We reproduced the works of Bach, Mozart, Rachaminoff, Beethoven, Ferling and others, and we did these on instruments like the woodwind instruments, brass and the piano.”

She noted that the motive of the evening’s event was to sensitise the Anguilla public to the musical talents of our young people by playing tunes from the classical period. She claimed: “I think classical music is the foundation of all music — all genres — and it’s very soothing to the soul.” “Life without this kind of music is really a mistake,” she said.
Ms. Hazell has worked along with local musical greats such as Lennox Vanterpool and Kimba Southwell to craft and hone the musical skills of several young people. As she ended the Vote of Thanks she quoted the legendary Napoleon Bonaparte: “Music is what tells us that the human race is greater than we realise.”

– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan

– Contributed

On Sunday, September 27th, the 40-plus member ALHCS Concert Band took to the stage at the St. Augustine’s Anglican Church in East End. The occasion was the Band’s annual Sound Review showcase — now in its fifth year. The event was the culmination of a two-and-a-half week band workshop designed to immerse the young instrumentalists into the deeper levels of musical interpretation.

The Band is made up of young promising beginners, as well as seasoned specialists who provide encouragement and support to the younger cohort. The ensemble performed before a packed audience. The programme comprised varied items that paid tribute to the lives and legacies of three educators: the late Rev. Dr. Wycherley Gumbs, Mrs. Verna Fahie and Prof. Austin A. Venzen.

Among the many striking renditions of an evening, filled with refreshing, heartwarming melodies, was an extra highlight featuring the angelic voice of Alaina Carty. Her captivating presentation of the American Standard, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”, stirred the audience.

Following the energetic programme of musical talent, Director Lennox Vanterpool showered high praise and appreciation on all those connected with the event, especially Head of Music at the ALHCS, Mrs Kimba Southwell, Principal Rita Celestine Carty, and the Band Camp facilitators.

In speaking to The Anguillian, Mr. Vanterpool noted: “This labour of love continues to be rewarding and an absolute necessity for us and, more importantly, for the children. The absolutely boundless reach and scope that the music experience affords is priceless, and it is rewarding to see more and more students buying in to this very fact.”

In highlighting the intricate details which enrich the talents of the Band, Mr. Vanterpool observed: “This exhibition of rich musical talent — in an atmosphere which represents order and form — is most refreshing, and it represents the hope that we have for our youth and nation. But it is not the talent alone that gives us hope; it is that meticulous, disciplined attention to detail shared among the young facilitators that were, for me, most rewarding this time around. The Band’s shared learning, democratic discovery, and an understanding and enjoyment of the music, were on full display throughout the evening. I sense that we have only just begun!”

Principal of the ALHCS, Mrs. Rita Celestine Carty, referred to the tributes paid to the legacies of the three aforementioned educators. She noted: “SoundReview 2020 pays tribute to three important members of our community who have recently left us in body, but who will certainly ever remain with us in spirit. These individuals have touched several lives, and the life of our school in indelible ways.

“Rev. Dr. Wycherley Gumbs was the Chairman of the ALHCS Board of Governors at the time of his passing on Friday, September 4th 2020. He had dispensed duties related to this role up to Thursday, September 3rd. The Board of Governors of the School continues to be grateful for the grace of his leadership and the contributions he made to the continued growth and stability of the institution.

“From 1970, when she first entered the teaching profession and for evermore, Mrs. Verna Fahie will be known as a champion for education in Anguilla – one who would turn over every stone to ensure that the needs of students, at every level were well served. Not only would she demand a high quality of service of others, but her own hands were always at the plough demonstrating how it was to be done. She was passionate about education and loved to see students thrive.”

Finally, Mrs. Carty spoke of Professor Venzen: “Even closer to this musical milieu was, and remains, Professor Austin A. Venzen. As the longstanding Chair of Music at the University of the Virgin Islands and Associate Professor of Woodwinds, he was instructor of music to our own Lennox Vanterpool, Kimba Southwell, Shermel Archibald and Chrystal Duncan. In addition, many of the past and current band members were fortunate to sit at his feet through the annual UVI Summer Band Camp. His indomitable spirit lives through the lives of those blessed to be called his students. Sound Review 2020 was thus a celebration of life, living and the legacies of these dear departed.”

The entire performance was enhanced by the fine graphics engineering of audio/visual professional, Garian Fleming, who tastefully matched appropriate scenic effects with each selection. This ‘marriage’ of the audio and visual gave the venue and the live-streams that cinematic feel reserved for world class theatres.

The organisers of SoundReview extend acknowledgements and thanks to all who contributed to the event, and they are grateful for the supportive sponsorship. These supporters include: God, The Almighty Creator of Music; Rt. Rev L. Errol Brooks; Rev Fr. R. Christian; Mrs. Rita Celestine-Carty; Mrs. Kimba Southwell; Terone Hodge-Carty; Raheem Carty; Garian Fleming; Gilbert “GAF” Fleming; Lloyd Live; The Anguillian; Klass FM 92.9; Upbeat Radio 97.7 FM; Radio Anguilla 95.5; Grace FM 99:3; SoundReview Counselors; SoundReview Camp Participants; Alberts Marketplace; TJ’s Café; Ms. Zulma Webster; Ms. Krystie Webster; Ms. Gina Brooks; Mrs. Althea Hodge; ALHCS Concert Band; Parents/Supporters; Music Educators of Anguilla; ALHCS Concert Band Alumni; Sunset Homes Anguilla; Imige Trucking and Pam’s Wings Caterers.
Proceeds collected are to benefit the ALHCS Covid Relief Effort.

– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan

Going forward into the Anguilla Summer Festival next year, August, 2021, the people of South Hill and the island as a whole are hoping to see the continued emergence of a new event called Sunrise 2 Sunset Cultural Escape.

The event first occurred on Friday, August 7, a national holiday in Anguilla. Coming after several other celebratory activities, it took the island by storm, in the early daylight hours, with a crowded street jam from the former Ace Hardware store, at Swing High, to the South Hill Ball Field.
The event was organised mainly to showcase the talent and contributions which the residents of the Road South and Road North electoral constituencies have made to Anguilla over the years. It was also to involve the people of the island on a whole.

The event replaced what would have been the Last Lap of the Anguilla Summer Festival. That, and other events were officially cancelled due to the Covid-19 restrictions. However, although the island is Covid-free, limited permission was granted to a few groups to hold separate activities. The Bush Boys and PVI, who put on the Sunrise 2 Sunset Cultural Escape, were among those groups.

The above event sought to create a village festival, in South Hill. Thanks, in a way, to the South Hill community which has been holding events there each Christmas Season – and has now made the area available to other groups for various activities as well.

Mr. Karl Woodley, one of the main organisers of Sunrise 2 Sunset Cultural Escape, told The Anguillian newspaper: “This is an initiative of the Bush Boys, a group of young fellows in South Hill (assisted by other persons). They have come up with a community project that is partly cultural with a carnival flare. What we saw earlier was the Sunrise Last Lap, which ended at nine o’clock, and we are here at the South Hill Ball Field which they have transformed into a cultural village.”

Throughout the day there were performances by various bands and DJs, and large quantities of food and drink, with hundreds of persons from across the island in attendance. According to commentators, the well-attended event was a display of unity and camaraderie following a divisive general election – and an opportunity for the enjoyment of persons who, for a long time, had been under a Covid-19 lockdown.

At about 4.00 pm, the Elected Representatives for Road South and Road North, Mr. Haydn Hughes and Mr. Merrick Richardson respectively, delivered short addresses. They applauded the organisers for undertaking the event and to honour a number of persons from both communities for their involvement in culture, including the summer festival, boat racing and other activities, over the years. They looked forward to seeing the cultural event becoming part of the Anguilla Summer Festival.

At sunset, some thirty-five persons were presented with awards. Those awarded for boat racing were: Errol Romney, Percy Romney, George Romney, Lawrence Romney, Ross Romney, Glen Paul, Irving Hughes, Lindy Davis, Devon Daniels, Brian Richardson, Carl (Carlo) Gumbs, Ericson Hughes, Alwyn Richardson, Vernon Richardson, Elvis Ruan and Erin Hodge.

A number of persons were awarded for the Anguilla Summer Festival as follows: Carmencita Davis, Icilma Woodley, Ingrid Richardson, Leon Lake, Calvin Hughes, Morris Davis, Maurice Davis, Jason Lloyd, Jimmy Lloyd, John Lloyd, Zamanda Lake, Garvian Lake, the Musical Brothers, Mussington Brothers, Darwin Mussington, Sherma Hughes and Laville (Pantha) Hughes.

Four song writers, Marvin Gumbs, Garvey Lake, Darly Connor and Haydn Hughes, were also recognised.

The curtains on Sunrise 2 Sunset Cultural Escape came down with a grand display of fireworks.

Mr. Karl Woodley and the other organisers of the event are grateful to various businesses for providing sponsorship.

The expansive conference room at the Ministry of Finance was filled to capacity on Tuesday, March 17. It was a mass consultative meeting for stakeholders from across Anguilla, called by the Government and the Health Authority, to discuss what was being done to safeguard the island and its people from the coronavirus. It was a follow-up to several consultations since the middle of January.

The list of invited persons and organisations included the Anguilla Christian Council; the Anguilla Evangelical Association; the Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association; the Taxi Association; ferryboat owners; the Anguilla Chamber of Commerce and Industry; individual business representatives; the Anguilla Bar Association; political leaders; service clubs and others.
Premier Victor Banks put the meeting into perspective: “It is important for all stakeholders to meet with the Government to share what we are thinking, and for you to share with us your views and your situation,” he explained. “This will enable us to include these matters in our response to this very serious Covid-19 pandemic. I also want to say that this is a national and non-political matter and that the health and security of our people, is the most important consideration.”
The Premier attracted much applause when he stated: “I commend the Ministry of Health for the work they have done to date. They have been brilliant and need our commendation. They have not wasted any time, and have in fact spent one million dollars – that was not approved in the budget – to take this matter forward. It includes equipment; construction work; consultations; personnel; and a number of measures that have to be taken as a matter of urgency.”

The Premier said the Government had “ramped-up its meetings to make decisions regarding the response to the virus.” The meetings involved Ministers of Government, the Governor’s Office, Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Department, officials of the Health Authority, the accommodation sector and others. He spoke about the various releases issued about the virus, and the need to constantly change plans and statements due to the rapid evolving of the infectious situation – “not only in a matter of days, but sometimes hours.”

Premier Banks stated that although there were no confirmed cases of the virus in Anguilla, there was a need to embark on containment and management initiatives to stem the infection and spread of the disease.
Other speakers at the head table were the Minister of Health, Mr. Evans Rogers, who gave a detailed account of the work of his Ministry and the Health Authority – and the hope to undertake preliminary tests for the virus in Anguilla; the Minister of Home Affairs, Mrs. Cora Richardson Hodge, who spoke about the plan of action whereby schools have been closed to safeguard the health of children and teachers; the security of the island’s workforce especially in the hotel and tourism sector; and Government’s plans to provide financial assistance, through Social Security, for persons out of work as a result of loss of employment; the Permanent Secretary in the Minister of Health, Mr. Foster Rogers, who spoke about plans for quarantine and isolation facilities, among other matters; and the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Aisha Andrewin, who gave a comprehensive report about her monitoring and prevention work; testing of persons for the virus; and sending of tests to the Caribbean Public Health Agency in Trinidad for negative or positive confirmation.

During the course of his address, the Permanent Secretary, Health, took the opportunity to inform the stakeholders about some of the preparations and funding for the control of the COVID-19. He reported that a permanent isolated unit would be constructed near the hospital compound to accommodate 12 persons. In the interim, a current temporary facility is in place for 10 persons. The temporary facility is located at a repurposed section of the psychiatric ward. In order to provide that facility, it was arranged for some patients, who could be returned to their homes, to be discharged there and managed by their families.
Mr. Rogers acknowledged that the response of the British Government, through the Governor’s Office, and the Crown Agents, had been very positive. Among other matters, considerable sums of money have been provided to purchase specific equipment to test for the coronavirus; expand the hospital laboratory; and build a permanent isolation unit.

The Permanent Secretary and all the other speakers were applauded by a number of persons in the gathering for their full and excellent presentations. Several questions were raised regarding further decisions to be taken by the Government, and the Health Authority, to deal with the threatening COVID-19 situation to Anguilla.

Some of the questions included the need to close the boarders of Anguilla, but taking into account the fact that there were Anguillians abroad who wanted to return home; and, as already reported, the illegal entry of persons into Anguilla at non-authorised ports of entry – thus putting the people of Anguilla at risk of contracting the disease.

Another matter of concern was price gouging whereby some business places were reportedly unfairly, and substantially, increasing the cost of certain essential items including sanitary products, where available, as well as foodstuff; and hoarding whereby persons were grabbing up supplies from supermarkets without consideration of the needs of others – resulting in unnecessary shortages on the shelves. The commentators stressed that this was a matter to be dealt with without delay.

Se?oj Creations/STAGES Anguilla, a Non-Profit Organization, is once again preparing to stage its annual Drama Festival to be held in Anguilla March 5 – 8, 2020. These events will be directed by Collette Jones-Chin, Director/ Producer of Se?oj Creations/ Stages Anguilla.

Apart from providing Edutainment for the public, this Festival seeks to create the following: to offer an awareness in Drama & Theatre & promote Community Involvement, Awareness, Synergies & Relationships, locally, Regionally and Internationally. It seeks to assist with the development of Employability & Entrepreneurship Skills through Theatre and assist with personal development & management skills for all involved.

The Festival seeks to contribute and promote entertainment and cultural tourism and provides a stage where all can showcase the truths about life and social situations while assisting in placing Anguilla on the cultural map. It seeks to assist audience members, with the expansion of their knowledge; enabling them to see a collection of work from the old favorites to the’ new’ rising stars and to provide support for persons in the ARTS mainly our youth.

Further, the Festival seeks to bring together like minds, building a creative empire/industry while restoring national pride.

Finally, it seeks to room our youth as they use to the arts to become more rounded nation builders.

The Festival’s duration will be for three (3) days with the official launch being held at Paradise Cove, Anguilla. This will be followed by two days of workshops in Sound & Light Engineering, Drama & Stage Management and the performance of three (3) plays. STAGES Anguilla has invited three (3) groups to perform. These will come from Antigua, Guyana, Barbados, The USA and Trinidad & Tobago and St. Maarten.

As a special feature, STAGES Anguilla will be collaborating with Mr. Lennox Vanterpool, the ALHCS Concert Band, Serinite Music School and The Klassique Academy of Performing Arts to stage a grand Musical Production of “The Lion King.” STAGES Anguilla will also be collaborating with The Anguilla Lit fest and will be launching features with the Anguilla Drama Fest on the 6th of March.

In Addition, STAGES Anguilla expects to have 40 performers from SXM to perform Aladdin on Sunday, March 8th with their parents, teachers and visitors. This will bring their contingent to a total of 60 Persons.

– Press Release

The historic Ebenezer Methodist Chapel in The Valley was the venue for this year’s Heritage Concert hosted by the Methodist Church on Anguilla. Now in its eighth year, the annual celebration attracted a large, interdenominational audience and featured renditions in song, dance, music and poetry. Choirs from all six Methodist Churches, the Ebenezer Men’s Fellowship, the Girls’ Brigade Dancers, the Methodist Youth, Poets and Musicians joined in a grand celebration of culture and heritage.

During the programme, Teacher Hyacinth Hughes and Dr. Lindel Brookes were honoured by the Methodist Community for their contributions to the arts and culture on Anguilla. In response, the two popular poets/spoken word artistes treated the audience to special spoken word presentations.
Under the chairmanship of Mr. Sinclair Bucha

nan, the lively celebration included a focus on Negro Spirituals and reflections on the experience and resilience of our ancestors. Remarks also came from Superintendent Minister, Reverend Dr. Wycherley Gumbs; Congregational Steward, Mr. Sanford Richardson; and Heritage Committee Member, Mr. Val Banks.

– Contributed

Anguilla’s trendy rental company, Moke Anguilla, made a lasting impression on publicist Adanna Asson during her July 2019 visit to the island. When her client, Trinidadian-born singer Kerwin Du Bois, conceptualized the shoot, the idea was to uniquely capture the music video. Du Bois, who was in St. Martin at the time working on other projects, jumped at the idea to visit Anguilla. It was only natural that Asson suggested incorporating elements from the vibrant fleet of Mokes in the footage.

They took the ferry to Anguilla for the day to shoot on location using the vehicles. “We wanted to add beautiful bits and pieces,” Asson is quoted as saying, “and the Mokes from Moke Anguilla did just that.” The song, “No Tomorrow” on the Classy Riddim, also features Adana Roberts out of Tobago. The artists were excited by the unique feel that Moke Anguilla was able to provide for the music video.

Moke Anguilla officially opened for business in 2019 bringing a new image to the concept of a rental car in Anguilla. Mokes are available in a variety of colours and can be rented for full or half days.

– Press Release

Just before the adjournment of the Anguilla House of Assembly on Tuesday, January 21, Premier Victor Banks expressed thanks to a number of young men whom he said had made him “a celebrity”.

He said: “Mr. Speaker, just over the weekend I was made a celebrity. It is my understanding that there is a phone video going viral, and I want to thank a number of young men who encouraged me to listen to a very positive rap rendition that they did. It spoke to issues to which the Member for Island Harbour [Ms. Palmavon Webster] alluded about gun crime.

“These youngsters put together a rap composition which spoke to peace, unity and the cessation of gun violence among all people – and they particularly addressed Anguilla and St. Martin/St. Maarten. They encouraged me to come to listen to it and I want to commend them for their effort. I have no way to evaluate the quality of the rendition because, of course, I am not very much involved in that culture.

“There are some raps that I like; there are some that I have difficulty in appreciating. But, certainly, the message was out there and I am grateful to those youngsters who made the effort to respond to some of these issues which are so imminent in our communities – where young people have a difficulty in navigating some of the concerns that they have. Sometimes [these concerns] lead to deviant behavior and cause them to believe that they can settle issues through the use of guns and gun violence.

“It is very commendable, and very encouraging, when young people want to make that effort to put on the airways recorded messages to reach [other] young people where they are, with the culture, and those persons who are part of that culture…

“So I just want to commend those young people, Mr. Speaker, and thank them for giving me some notoriety. I didn’t seek it, but I am grateful for that opportunity…and to put to rest some of the comments that are being made out there; and some of the talented social media persons who are using and perverting it in ways that would further their interest. So I want to thank those young men very much.”

Motorists travelling to and from West End are applying their break’s as though there is a speed bump at the approach to the Sol Ltd West End gas station whose proprietor is Mr. Desmond Richardson (Shine). On the contrary, it is a straight main road with no “sleeping traffic policeman” as a speed bump is called.

The slowing down of the vehicles at nighttime gives their drivers an opportunity to admire the very beautiful Christmas lighting decorations erected there for the first time. The multi-coloured lights are in the form of a square to the east of the gas station – with a specially triangular lit-up area in the middle representing a Christmas tree, and at the back is a lit-up sail boat, one of the B class racing boats.
The lights, set up by the West End Development Committee, were turned on at a brief ceremony on Sunday night, December 15. The event included an opening prayer by Bishop Samuel Daniel of the Church of God of Prophecy which is located lower down in the village. He described the Christmas lights as being symbolic of the light that Jesus brought to the world, and the lit-up boat as representative of the boat-racing culture for which West End has become known.

The event was well attended by residents of the West End/Long Bay community as well as persons from various other parts of Anguilla. Among the gathering was Mr. Cardigan Connor, the Elected Representative for District 7.

He told The Anguillian newspaper afterwards that the lighting of the area was preceded by entertainment for children from 2 pm – 5-30 pm. During that time they were treated with a bouncing castle, snacks and gifts, followed at night fall by the lighting of the boat and the surroundings.
“I want to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to Sarah Billinghurst-Solomon, a frequent New York visitor to Anguilla and a donor to sports and persons in need for the past five years,” Mr. Connor acknowledged. “From her donations, I was able to get some presents for a number of children in the district. As you can see, wherever lights are up at Christmas it brings the people out.”
In explaining the use of a boat instead of a Christmas tree, Mr. Connor said: “The boat means a lot to the community. Every family in West End has a link to the sailing boat and I think that is something that we are quite proud about. The boat is a symbol that bonds the community – and ‘Shine’ has very much been in the forefront of having a boat lit up for Christmas.”

“The lit-up sail boat, B52, owned by Stephen Hughes of Long Bay, was customarily lit up at his home for Christmas. This year, it has been brought to the main road in West End for a wider public display, according to Mr. Connor. He added: “It is our way in our community of showing the joys of Christmas. It is unfortunate that over the recent years we have not seen enough households with Christmas lighting.

I am hoping that going forward more community members would consider themselves very much part of this. I would really like to thank the West End Development Committee, and others from the sailing boats, for their initiative. We are very proud of that initiative.”
The West End Development Committee has acknowledged that two of its members, Lakisha Hughes and Carmen Oliveras, were the main persons involved in the event which will continue for the twelve days of the Christmas celebrations.