Digicel Foundation refurbishes Dance Theatre offices

The premier dance theatre ensemble in the island, the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (NDTC), officially opened the doors to its newly-refurbished offices on the grounds of the Little Theatre Complex on Tom Redcam Drive in Kingston on Wednesday.

Refurbishments, costing in the region of $1.1 million, were done by The Digicel Foundation, with the official handover taking place days before the NDTC's new season of dance.

"With our new office, the NDTC is better equipped to ensure the effective administration, documentation and archiving of the Company's rich history and legacy, and to respond to the changing needs of a dynamic Jamaican society at home and in the diaspora. We thank The Digicel Foundation for its generosity of spirit and commend its ongoing support to the development of the creative and performing arts," said Barry Moncrieffe, NDTC's artistic director.

According to Moncrieffe, The Digicel Foundation's efforts are unique.

"This grant is the first of its kind from any organisation to the NDTC and we are all indeed grateful," he said.

Structural sustainability

The refurbished offices will add some structural sustainability to the preservation of the rich history of the NDTC and the works of Rex Nettleford. In commenting on The Digicel Foundation's support, executive director, Major General Robert Neish said: "Digicel Foundation is a firm supporter of local culture and as such, we are delighted to have assisted the NDTC. This will ensure that great works of art and literature done by Rex Nettleford and other stalwarts in the dance industry are preserved and serve as a reflection on our rich history for generations to come."

"Over the last five decades, the National Dance Theatre Company has given tremendous focus to the dance industry - not only celebrating it for its rich history, but also for preserving its intricate movements and refreshing realities - which reflects the vitality of the Jamaican people," said Neish.

As a token of appreciation, the NDTC handed The Digicel Foundation team, a copy of Dance Jamaica: Renewal and Continuity, the last published work by the late Hon Professor Rex Nettleford.

Established almost five decades ago, the NTDC has distinguished itself as a solid manufacturer of bona fide talents in the local dance landscape, transcending regional and international borders.