Theatrical experience runs
throughout the historical culture of Barbados. It began in the 1600's
with plantations putting on 'tea meetings' where people recited passages,
often Biblical, as well as poetry, skits and speeches.
Troupes of actors arrived by ship and gave alfresco performances in the
shadow of their vessels.
In 1751, while on a visit to Barbados, George Washington attended a theatrical
performance and recorded the occasion in his diary!
In 1783 the Patagonian theatre was built and English plays were performed
in true colonial style! Up until the 20th century most of the theatrical
groups were white. However after World War II, the Green Room Players
was formed and began staging local and international plays, with a multi
national flavour.
In 1977 the non-profit organisation Stage One Productions was established.
Their aim was to awaken Caribbean interest in the theatre by hosting a
variety of traditional plays. To date they have been very successful and
host the annual Stage One Playwriting Contest.
More recently WWB Productions was formed as a registered charity, to focus
on workshops throughout the Caribbean, utilising indigenous materials
in costume and set design. Actors are given work experience within other
islands, creating a unified pool of the best of our local acting talent
and resources.
A Cultural Officer for Theatre Arts was appointed in 1998 and Kofi Akobi
was given the mandate 'to instill in the young generation the importance
of theatre in our diverse and unique culture'.
Numerous local events occur around the island and caribzones.com is here
to make sure that you don't miss out on any of them!
Founded in 1993 to develop the culture and love of classical music, Holders
Festival is held annually in March at Holders House.
Here you can experience classical concerts performed outdoors under palm
trees, with performers dressed in period costumes. No expense is spared
and quality singers and musicians are flown in from Britain for a classical
musical extravaganza hereto unknown in the Caribbean.
For further information contact the Barbados Tourism Authority.
