Tobago Heritage Festival - It Takes A Village To Raise A Child

This year marks the second year that the area of Crown Point, Canaan and Bon Accord has taken part in the Tobago Heritage Festival, after many many years of absence. The play this year represents a continuation of last year's story and part two of a trilogy written by the Village Council.

Under the direction of one of Tobago's cultural icons and noted dancer/choreographer (known for his creation of Tobago's Congo Bele Dance), Henry James, the production has seen many changes and challenges to make it ready for stage this evening.

This part of Tobago is one of the fastest growing communities on the island and in keeping with the concerns of the village elders, the play reflects the need to successfully take on the challenge of creating a cohesive community in light of it's increasing size and diversity. The story centers around a family raising a child with the support of not just immediate relatives, but teachers, neighbours, and the village pastor, each having a role and responsibility in helping to form the child's character spiritually, morally, socially and educationally. Last year's production focused on the parents and the birth of the child, while this year, the child begins his primary then secondary education. I have been able to see some of the rehearsals for this play and the script contains many of the island's proverbs, tales and superstitions that kept children "on the straight and narrow" (including yours truly), and it is both interesting and funny (it even touches on the social issue of "horning" and questionable paternity).

This area's presentation is two-fold: sporting activities and competition in the morning and the theatre production in the evening. Below are a few snap shots of the cast and crew at rehearsals at the community centre.