Students seek sponsorship for "pilgrimage to West Africa"

A scene from the musical 'Esther and The King Of Persia'. - Michael Sloley

THE JOINT performing arts group from St. George's College and St. Catherine High School is seeking support and sponsorship to make what they say is a "pilgrimage to the motherland".

The group is scheduled to visit West Africa as part of Panafest Celebrations in Ghana later this month. During the festival they will take part in the 'Emancipation Vigil' July 31 to August 1, where they will visit underground caves and dungeons, formerly used as holding cells for slaves being transported to the West Indies.

"It will be a rare opportunity for some of our youths to get a taste of history," said Hugh Douse, one of the directors of the performing arts group and a vice-principal at St. George's.

If they raise the necessary funds, they will perform their musical, Esther and The King Of Persia, at Panafest.

Together since last December, the group comprises over 50 students from both schools, including a full dance troupe, a choir, a band and a cadre of actors and actresses.

"It is incredible what they have been able to accomplish and now to get this opportunity to perform as representatives of Jamaica, is astounding," Mr. Douse said. The musical, filled with humour, spirited dances and beautiful singing, highlights the struggle of a people from slavery to freedom. Based on the biblical account of Queen Esther, a Jew chosen as wife of King Xerxes at a time when the Jews were in exile, the play is a moving account of the struggles of Esther to protect the life of her cousin Mordecai and save all the Jews from the evil schemes of Haman, a royal official and personal confidant of the king.

The Ministry of Education has promised some sponsorship for the group and the students themselves are raising some 40 per cent of their individual costs to make the trip.

"Even with this, we still need to raise almost $1.4 million dollars before July 25," Mr. Douse disclosed. They are calling on corporate groups and individuals who are interested to offer their support for this cultural exchange and once-in-a-lifetime experience for the students.

Douse said that the group will be "taking a step of faith, like Esther", in an effort to raise funds. "We will have a weekend of shows at the Ward Theatre this coming Friday and Saturday. We hope Jamaica will turn out in support of our project. If Jamaica and your heritage means anything to you, you will support this cause," Mr. Douse said. There will be two shows on each night, at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

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