As musicians from Elmore Stoutt High School played the territorial song and other numbers, a crowd grew at the Market Square in Road Town for the launch of the 71st annual August Emancipation Festival.
At the Friday evening event, officials unveiled a schedule that will include diverse cultural events as well as performances from the Virgin Islands-based band VIBE; soca artists Yung Bredda of Trinidad and Krosfyah of Barbados; and Jamaican dancehall singer Chronic Law.
Also announced was the festival’s theme, slogan and honouree. After an invocation from Pastor Arvan Hodge, a saxophonist from ESHS played the territorial song.
Then the ceremony was opened by Joseph Smith-Abbott, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development.
“As is customary, we meet not simply to launch, but reflect on the importance of, this event,” he said, adding, “This really and truly is an opportunity for us to highlight our culture, our history and how far we’ve actually come.”
Emceeing the event was Natalie Penn-Lake, chair of the VI Festivals and Fairs Committee.
“We’re excited about what this year’s festivities will bring,” she said. “We are more interested in also our community being safe, bringing more togetherness, more cultural activities. You’ll see on the lineup this year where we have a lot more inclusivity of Virgin Islands history and Virgin Islands culture.”
Announcements
Ms. Penn-Lake also announced this year’s theme and slogan, both of which were chosen by the VIFFC.
Briana Henley-Mather submitted the winning theme: “Uniting Our Culture, Freedom and Joy in the Virgin Islands for Festival 2025.”
The winning slogan —“Embrace the Past, Let Unity Thrive as we Celebrate Our Culture at Festival 2025!” — came from Jacob Edwards.
Festival honouree
After announcing the winners, Ms. Penn-Lake called to the stage Neil Frett, the festival’s official honouree.
“Neil has been involved with Festival for many, many years,” Ms. Penn-Lake said. “You’ll hear about his bio on the opening night, which is July 25th, but we wanted you to meet him before.”
Asked how long he has been involved in the festival, Mr. Frett responded with a number that predated the births of many attendees.
“1974,” he said with a wide smile.
First moves
Following the recognition of this year’s honouree, the Optimum Sky Dancers appeared from the stalls encircling Market Square and began a dance routine.
Then the Nouveau Royale Dancers performed as the sun sank behind the mountains overlooking Tortola’s capital.
After dark, the Razor Blades fungi band took the stage.
British Caribbean News
