The Tribune

Two Bahamian Junkanoo icons have been engaged to play a key role in developing the Junkanoo Museum at the revamped Nassau Cruise Port.

Percy “Vola” Francis and Arlene Nash-Ferguson will be heavily involved in creating this cultural attraction directly across from the new arrivals terminal, offering thousands of visitors a taste of the excitement associated with Junkanoo.

The museum will include a 30-foot-high atrium exhibit space that will feature a 20-foot tall Junkanoo sculpture. It will also house various forms of Bahamian artwork, images and other representations of Junkanoo history.

Technology will be incorporated extensively into the museum experience, which will include interactive exhibits; an Impact Theatre for short films and presentations; and a Junkanoo gift shop that will only include ‘authentically Bahamian’ souvenirs and memorabilia.

Mr Francis, leader of the Saxon Superstars, said of the project: “The significance of creating this museum is to encapsulate the essence and spirit of our unique cultural expressions through the various art forms and components of Junkanoo that will be on display in a vibrant, multi-coloured fashion and a truly Bahamian format.”

Ms Nash-Ferguson added: “The Junkanoo Museum will greet our visitors with the colour and celebratory spirit of the people of The Bahamas. It will create a sense of place and add to the signature quality of Historic Nassau Harbour. It will also give Bahamians an overwhelming sense of pride and excitement as it accurately reflects and celebrates them.”

From an educational and historical perspective, she explained: “Any display of Junkanoo must be worthy of Junkanoo itself. The story of Junkanoo must not only highlight its proud history but must also celebrate the tradition bearers of today – the people who cause these annual magnificent parades to happen.

“It must tell their stories and give them pride of place. It must trace their proud journeys from the bare cardboard in the Junkanoo shacks that their genius transforms into a kaleidoscope of magnificent, unparalleled colour and pounding rhythm on Bay. This is the story that we will tell. The museum will also highlight Junkanoo in all the islands of The Bahamas where it is held.”

Both project consultants said the museum will showcase every aspect of Junkanoo in depth, including the history, costumes, music and performance. This will include elements such as a Junkanoo ‘Hall of Fame’; historical exhibits including subjects such as “the evolution of the Junkanoo costume”; winning parade pieces; mini Junkanoo rush outs; and cow belling, drumming and rush out interaction.

The museum will also give individual Junkanooers and groups economic opportunities through performances, product sales and other initiatives. The participation of Junkanooers will be incorporated into the plans for the museum to the fullest extent possible.

Mr Francis said: “This museum is long overdue, and is being designed specifically for the people of The Bahamas to showcase the magnificence and brilliance of this uniquely Bahamian cultural force to the world. I can assure that Bahamians will be very proud of the final product.”