The five-week Youth Summer Arts Platform (YSAP), the flagship initiative of the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), wrapped up this week.
The programme saw over 150 participants from both the north and south of the island take part in courses ranging from film and photography to theatre, visual arts, drumming and makeup for theatrical productions.
“The Youth Summer Arts Platform…is not only a moment, but it’s a movement,” explained Ryan Germain, senior CDF media and communications officer.
He added that the initiative aims to engage young people in arts and culture during the summer period while also creating a legacy of cultural transmission to the younger generation.
The final production, titled Drum-Maker, is an adaptation of a play by Saint Lucian poet and playwright Kendall Hippolyte. Germain highlighted that it provides participants with an opportunity to “not only put on a production, but they understand arts and culture in Saint Lucia, and…bring in all the skills they have learned during the five weeks.” The performance is set for Saturday, August 23, at 2 p.m. at the National Cultural Centre. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for children.
This year’s programme also included field trips to places like Mamiku Gardens and fun sports initiatives, with local sponsors contributing to enhance the experience for the participants.
Germain noted the growing interest in the platform, saying, “We have seen…interest not only for the kids, but of course, for their parents. Their parents are seeing value when it comes to the Youth Summer Arts Platform.”
