NDTC Opening Night earns praise

The July 18 Opening Night of the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica’s (NDTC) 63rd Season was a breath-taking immersion in wonder and cultural excellence.

Under the theme “Bloom”, the production showcased the breadth of the repertoire of the acclaimed Company, which has seen Jamaica through all its years of independent development. And, as a mark of its maturity, NDTC functions as an incubating space for not only creative talent, but for charities and causes which depend on the annual event for critical fundraising. Friday’s show was in benefit of JamCoders, a free four-week residential summer camp for high school students in third, fourth and fifth forms. The camp is held annually at The University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona campus’ Department of Computing.

“It was quite an honour to partner with the NDTC in staging this Benefit for JamCoders. JamCoders is a unique programme in Jamaica with tremendous benefits for our children. Of great importance to me is its accessibility and merit-based focus, allowing children who qualify from all across Jamaica to earn a space and be introduced to algorithms and programming. They also participate in mentoring and networking opportunities, while building their social skills and capacity to think ahead about further education and career options. I am especially pleased with the attendance of young people whose exposure to the Arts is equally important to that of their affinity for technology.” said Klao Bell-Lewis, patron of the evening.

REMARKABLE STANDARD

The diverse audience was mesmerised by new dance pieces which amplified the skill, athleticism, precision and fine technique of the dancers. Su Shuai, visitor to Jamaica, and first time attendee to an NDTC performance, described the performance profoundly.

“The performance was ordered like a complete story or history. The lights and design complemented the dance, with the energy and passion bringing joy. This is what real top art should be, having a strong effect on the audience with its beauty and impact on one’s emotions,” Su said.

Amelia Smith, 19-year-old UWI student, who was also a first time attendee, said, “The performances were lovely. You could feel the energy and emotion radiating from each dancer. It is a true tribute to Jamaica’s vibrant culture.”

Five new dance pieces were included in this year’s season, including those from established and new choreographers. The NDTC Singers and musicians maintained their usual remarkable standard, delivering wit, social commentary in classic and new arrangements.

And the next generation of NDTC supporters offered similar views.

“I believe the show was truly amazing. It really brought together the aspects of different dancing styles. It also expressed the thought of being a Jamaican show the different ethnicities that came together to form this bond. The dancing and singing together made the night worthwhile,” said 12-year-old Gavrielle Berry, immediate past deputy head girl of Shortwood Practising Primary School.

Old McDonald Farms Ltd, Coca Cola and MoneyMasters Ltd were sponsors of a delightful pre-event cocktail. Fitzroy Ferguson, marketing manager of Old McDonald Farms Ltd, explained his company’s support.

“We are a family company that was birthed in and continues to be integrated within rural Jamaican communities. Like the NDTC, throughout our almost 40 years of operation, we have been committed to Jamaica and excellent quality, so we are proud to have supported this STEAM effort which contributes to development of youth, technology and the creative sector.”