The Department of Education Services held secondary school adjudications for the 41st staging of the annual National Children’s Festival of the Arts this week, 4-6 March.
According to the department, there were adjudications of 195 entries from several public and private schools, homeschoolers and music school organisations across Grand Cayman in four disciplines, including dance, speech, drama, vocals and instrumentals (bands, solos and ensembles).
“It was fantastic, so many [entries] that we had to redo our schedule and put on more venues to get through, which is a wonderful problem to have,” said Kimberly Kirkconnell, senior customer service manager at the Department of Education Services.
Kirkconnell said, “Schools have been participating brilliantly, our adjudicators have brought their expertise so overall it’s been a wonderful, positive experience showcasing the wonderful talents of our highschoolers.”
She added, “The arts are such a critical part to development and giving additional opportunities. Not every child is fully academic, so arts allows you an avenue to express yourself by providing the different categories of dance and music and drama and speech.
“It’s just another way that students can promote themselves and better themselves and, out of this, we’ve had music teachers come and develop, and people go on to do international performances, so it adds another level to the opportunities for our children.”
Department of Education Services Director Mark Ray said the National Children’s Festival of the Arts is an excellent opportunity for young people to showcase their talent.
“We acknowledge the number of hours of hard work and dedication that they’ve put in to own their craft and express our appreciation to their teachers, their parents, well-wishers, and also the folks who have worked so hard to put this event together,” he said.
“Our team from the DES, the adjudicators and so many other people who have chipped in to make this event a success. We look forward to its continued growth and success, year on year.”
The 2024 National Children’s Festival of the Arts season will culminate next month with Primary competitions.
Final concerts will be held at the Harquail Theatre at the end of April, with a showcase of top awardees. Cayman Brac finals will also be held next month.
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