The Tribune

THE Department of Culture officially launched the E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival 2013 with the announcement of the festival’s adjudicators.

They are: Elizabeth Thornton for choral instrumental music; Lawrence Carroll for dance; Valentine Maura for drama; and Allan P Wallace for art and crafts.

The festival is now in its 54th year of existence.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Danny Johnson said: “Over the years, the festival has expanded to include all facets of the visual and performing arts, thus making it the only true National Festival in the Bahamas.

“This festival is designed to not only exhibit the unique creativity of the Bahamian youth but also to showcase our Bahamian culture.”

Schools across the length and breadth of the Bahamas are invited to participate in the categories of Music, Dance, Drama and Art and Craft, Minister Johnson said.

Competition between the schools has proven to be very exciting as young, aspiring artists and artisans are discovered and publicised.

“Participants are reminded that the closing date for the National Arts Festival for all Dance Music and Drama entries in Grand Bahama is Monday, February 18, and the closing date for New Providence entries is Wednesday, February 20.

“The closing date for Art and Craft entries for New Providence and Grand Bahama is June 21,” said Minister Johnson.

Adjudication for all Family Islands begins on Monday, April 29 through to the first week in June.