Arts in Park Programme to Expose Local Talent

An Arts in the Park programme,to expose the country’s artistes to the international community, is to be introduced by the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment.

"Arts in the Park will include music, dance, drama, art displays and the spoken word, giving our performers the platform to expose and hone their talent through constant practise," explained State Minister, Hon. Damion Crawford, in his contribution to the 2012/13 Sectoral Debate on July 17 in the House of Representatives.

He said the events, which will be held primarily in Kingston, will be streamed live to other markets using social media platforms such as YouTube, Ustream and Facebook, thereby increasing its scope and the exposure provided to entertainers.

"In addition to this, we also propose to fly international booking agents, journalists, club promoters and organizers of major festivals into the island every quarter to interact with our artistes and increase the presence of the arts in the print and electronic media,” he told the House.

"Our vision is for us to execute this so well, that at the end of three to four years the best DJs in Jamaica will hardly be here, simply because they are frequently booked overseas. This will also provide a platform for the rise and development of new entertainers in Jamaica,” Mr. Crawford stated.

He said the importance of the initiative “cannot be overemphasized, as the work of the more established performers paves the way for the next generation of entertainers."

 “For instance, I believe the rise of ace DJs Bounty Killer and Beenie Man was facilitated in part by the success of Shabba Ranks, which saw him touring extensively overseas, creating a void locally, which they were able to fill. If promoters were booking the top entertainer for a show and Shabba Ranks was always available, then Beenie Man and Bounty would never have been booked. If more of our top entertainers are performing on the international stage, then this will provide room for the growth and development of new ones,” he argued.

By Latonya Linton, JIS Reporter