With just six weeks left before their scheduled departure, the Silver Shadow Performing Arts Academy is pleading with the public and business sector to help 30 young dancers attend a life-changing summer training programme in Jamaica.
Led by Artistic Director and Founder Barry George, the academy has spent the past eight months fundraising for what he calls a “critical opportunity” for Saint Lucian performing arts students.
“The reason why we are here this morning is because we are trying to really make a plea to the general public,” George told St Lucia Times. “We are a bit worried of our inability to hit the target.”
The dancers aim to participate in two prestigious programmes at Edna Manley College: the Dance Intensive for advanced performers and Arts Scope, which covers dance, theatre, and music. However, the group faces a significant financial hurdle, having so far raised only EC$20 000 of the required EC$90 000.
George stressed the programme’s importance not just for individual growth but for Saint Lucia’s arts future. “There is a lack of training nationally… and our organisation is one that is in the lead when it comes to representing Saint Lucia, locally, regionally and internationally,” he explained.
He noted that few dancers on the island have formal certifications, and this programme would give students “firsthand access to professional training” and potentially open doors for them to become future arts educators.
Marlia, one of the participating dancers, echoed the urgency and excitement surrounding the trip. “I’m very excited to be attending this… workshop in Jamaica. It might be your last chance to do something like that,” she said. “A lot of people don’t get those opportunities. I’m very grateful for it.”
She credited Silver Shadow for helping her excel academically and artistically. “If I wasn’t into Silver Shadow, I wouldn’t have gotten a [CXC grade] one. So the dance did help me in a tremendous way where CXC was concerned.”
Fellow student Makyla shared similar sentiments, describing Silver Shadow as her “safe place” and expressing deep gratitude to George for his guidance. “Even though the money is quite a lot, I’m trying to do my part so I can raise funds for myself, for the group so we can go together,” she said.
Makyla also recalled the emotional moment her mother told her she might not be able to go: “I was really sad. I was like, ‘Oh, I actually want to go, I want to dance.’ Dancing is what I love to do, so I want to go and do that.”
Costs per student are EC$9 591.61 (Dance Intensive) or EC$5 791.35 (Arts Scope). While students and parents have contributed significantly, the academy seeks additional public and corporate sponsors to bridge the gap.
“We have gone so far already,” said George. “We are asking the general public to reach out and assist us, whether to sponsor a child, sponsor the group, whatever it is that can help us with our target.”
How to Help:
Donations can be made via direct deposit to:
Bank of Saint Lucia
Account Name: Silver Shadow Performing Arts Academy
Account Number: 901149502
Account Type: Checking
Branch: Bridge Street, Castries
Contact: (758) 520-0590 | (758) 519-7895 | silvershadow201@gmail.com
The group leaves for Jamaica on July 6 and returns on August 2.
Established in 1991, Silver Shadow has about 100 students. New members can register for $100 starting in September 2025.
