Wind instruments, string instruments and voices rang true at the Little Theatre on Monday, at the official launch of the National Finals of the JCDC Festival of the Performing Arts. The annual festival was launched with the first area, Music, which will continue until Friday, April 8 at the Little Theatre. There is also a special day planned for drumming – “Drum Fest”, which will be held on Monday, April 11 at the Louise Bennett Garden Theatre inside the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, starting at 4 p.m. Talented youngsters travelled from across the island to the concert hall in Kingston to compete for a chance to take home the National Title.

“The National Finals had a fitting opening on Monday with the first day of Music. The performances would rival that of any internationally held music concert, and we know that the students are as equally proud as the judges and audience were impressed.” said Director of Marketing and Public Relations at the JCDC, Stephen Davidson.

“The Festival of the Performing Arts, in all subject areas, provides an excellent avenue for participants to showcase their talents and for patrons to enjoy wholesome family entertainment.” Davidson continued.

In addition to the invaluable experience and talent development offered by this competition, finalists have the chance to win attractive prizes including cash incentives, trophies and gift packages courtesy of the CHASE Fund, in addition to the opportunity to perform at national and celebratory events and private functions.

Special cash prizes and awards will also be given by sponsors Nestle Jamaica and the National Health Fund. Other sponsors of the National Festival of the Performing Arts – National Finals include: Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation, Excelsior, Happy Ice, Jamaica Association for the Deaf and Life Span Spring Water.
Tickets for the Festival of the Performing Arts National Finals are available daily at the gate at a cost of Adults $400, Children $200. A special group rate is also available.