Cultural activist Barry George has spent decades shaping Saint Lucia’s artistic scene, using his work to motivate and develop young talent while championing increased investment in the country’s creative industries.
George said his identity is rooted in his work. “The extension of me is always through the work I do,” he told St Lucia Times. His passion for carnival and dance reflects “how loud and colourful my life, like my imagination and expression, is”.
George’s journey began in humble surroundings. During secondary school, extracurricular activities shaped his career path.
After leaving school, George founded the Silver Shadow Performing Arts Academy, which has now been operating for 30 years. Initially a school-based initiative, it evolved into a formal programme to nurture young talent. He described it as “an after-school programme in the arts that’s designed to create avenues for young people in the arts.”
Through Silver Shadow, George emphasises theatre, expressive drama, and cultural education to keep students connected to their heritage. “We ensure our students are connected to the African roots,” he said, citing traditional drumming and dance.
His contribution to Saint Lucia’s carnival is significant. He recalled a time when junior carnival participation dropped to just two bands, prompting him to act.
This led to Just4Kids, a junior carnival band revitalising youth involvement. The band fuelled participation and offered costume and performance training, earning “eight consecutive wins from 2011 to 2018”.
After a brief hiatus during the pandemic, the band returned, with George affirming its essential role in junior carnival.
To address declining local participation in carnival, George also launched the Expression Carnival Band, a senior band focused on accessibility and local involvement. “All the designers are Saint Lucian. All production is done locally,” he said, explaining that the aim is to ensure Saint Lucians are able to fully participate in the festival.
He stresses affordability and inclusivity, noting that carnival “is supposed to be inclusive, not segregate” and aims to offer opportunities to those without resources to join larger bands.
Beyond carnival, George has made a lasting impact in pageantry by working with hundreds of young women and preparing them for local and regional competitions. He said, “I’ve worked with almost over 500 girls,” and often encourages participants to take the first step.
His guidance has led to multiple pageant winners, and he sees pageantry as a strong platform for personal development.
George views leadership as “creating new leaders,” highlighting humility, trust, and listening. He added that effective leaders must adapt, knowing when to listen and when to be autocratic.
He expressed concern about the direction of the creative sector in Saint Lucia, especially the lack of structured development. He acknowledged showcase opportunities but urged a greater focus on training.
He pointed to gaps in music production, performance, and carnival design, noting many must navigate the industry alone – singing, producing, managing, and marketing – stressing the need for support systems.
George highlighted missed economic opportunities in carnival production and urged greater local involvement.
Despite challenges, George remains committed to mentorship and collaboration as keys to growth. He encouraged aspiring creatives to seek advice and engage with the industry. “Collaborating with individuals who are doing exactly what you would like to do… that’s really good mentorship,” he advised.
Looking back, George admits his journey was difficult but aims to smooth the path for the next generation and “make it easier for them to succeed”.
He expressed confidence in the young people he has trained, believing they will surpass his achievements. “There will be many manifestations of me in various forms, and by far better too,” he said.
This Sunday, George will receive the Les Piton Gold Medal in recognition of his contributions to the creative industry.
Well done Barry – and well said!
Unfortunately, Barry’s true and heartfelt sentiments will fall on deaf ears. Sadly!
You see, the people who should be assisting have the notion that the arts and entertainment are hobbies and not a business which is also a livelihood.