In both political and public discourse, the creation of a National Entertainment Centre in Saint Lucia has emerged as a vital objective.
Saint Lucia’s transformation into a ‘Festival Country’ is evident, as the island continues to host a profusion of local, regional, and worldwide events, including the renowned Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, the inaugural Yamaha Beach Festival, and a variety of high-profile concerts and shows.
The need for a contemporary facility is no longer a faraway dream; it is a requirement.
Last year, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister of Tourism and Creative Industries, indicated unequivocally that the government will increase efforts to market the island as an event destination. His statements came after Saint Lucia was named the Best Corporate Retreat Destination in the Caribbean for 2023 at the 4th Annual World MICE Awards.
The authorities are increasing their marketing efforts to target the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) industry. Dr. Hilaire also indicated that the Grand Hyatt in Choiseul is currently under construction and would specialise in this arena.
Concerning the proposed Entertainment Centre, Dr. Hilaire stated that “concept drawings” had been given for its location in the Cul de Sac basin.
“I am pursuing this initiative and exploring options under the CIP for a developer who will invest upfront and fund this project,” he stated during a recent media briefing.
He also acknowledged the government’s present priorities in health, education, and infrastructure, but emphasised the importance of constructing a cutting-edge modern entertainment complex capable of holding huge events.
“This remains a priority for me as a minister,” he said.
Looking ahead, Dr. Hilaire sees significant developments in the entertainment industry. He remarked, “Saint Lucia is primed to host several shows this year. We expect community Jazz events to significantly increase compared to last year, with the inclusion of Micoud and the return of Babonneau. Soufriere is poised to be outstanding, and we anticipate an even bigger carnival this year.”
The Minister emphasised the increased interest in Saint Lucia’s funfair for 2025, stating, “We are eager for what lies ahead. Additionally, we expect the beach festival in November to surpass last year’s success.”
Dr. Hilaire is devoted to revitalising Jounen Kweyol by collaborating with the Folk Research Centre to improve and broaden the event’s scope and impact.
Youth Development and Sports Minister Kenson Casimir is also a big supporter of using alternate locations for huge entertainment events rather than overburdening the island’s sports facilities. He has made a clear commitment to building a National Youth and Entertainment Centre to satisfy the different needs of young people.
A detailed idea and design for this centre have already been developed, with the intention of serving as a hub for the National Youth Council, hosting E-Sports competitions, and providing a variety of programs.
Currently, the National Cultural Centre is the primary entertainment venue on the island, with other venues include Pigeon Island Landmark, Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds (DSCG), the Saab Playing Field in Vigie, and other locations for varied entertainment reasons.
Minister Hilaire is committed to move these efforts forward as the new year approaches, and he expects a resolution to these issues to facilitate development.