The 2025 edition of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival placed greater emphasis on the arts component, with organizers planning to involve more of the island’s artisans in the event.
The festival aims to expand into a broader spectrum of entertainment. The Art and the City segment has proven to be a resounding success, attracting thousands with its exhilarating musical events, stunning visual displays, and vibrant cultural performances throughout the island.
Now in its third year, the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) has once again presented a remarkable and diverse programme that not only showcases Saint Lucia’s creative excellence, but also nurtures emerging talent.
From the spectacular opening event to the unforgettable finale, audiences were enthralled by everything the festival had to offer.
The La Bèl Kwéyòl Icon Gala kicked off the festivities on May 1st with grandeur.
Attendees exceeded all expectations, honouring cultural icon Teresa Hall with a moving tribute through traditional folk fashion. The performances vividly brought Hall’s legacy to life, weaving together a rich tapestry of folk music, dance, and storytelling that left the audience spellbound.
Before the festival, corporate entities and schools participated in an inspiring “edutainment” skit developed by the CDF’s Training Department, effectively raising awareness about Hall’s significant contributions to the island’s culture.
The Life in Colour visual art exhibition, hosted at La Place Carenage from May 2nd, attracted a diverse crowd of tourists, students, and local professionals alike. The exhibition showcased captivating fine art, sculptures, and photography—each piece a testament to the vision and vitality of gifted Saint Lucian creators.
With additional activities like a Sit and Paint session and an enlightening panel discussion on AI’s role in the arts, this space transformed into a vibrant creative hub.
Poetry enthusiasts found their oasis at ‘Voices of the Underground’ on May 5th, held at the revamped National Cultural Centre. The powerful performances by talented spoken word artists such as Shyne, Donaton, and Kadija resonated deeply, captivating the audience with their eloquence. One of the evening’s highlights was the return of spoken word elder George “Fish” Alphonse, whose mesmerising performance was hailed as a career milestone.
Jamaican headliner Staceyann Chin delivered a breathtaking session that was both hilarious and thought-provoking, leaving attendees in awe.
Over at the Rodney Bay strip, ‘Ti Tak Sent Lisi’ created an unforgettable two-day craft market buzzing with energy and creativity. With over thirty vendors showcasing authentic Saint Lucian products, the atmosphere was electric, and the support was overwhelming, with some vendors selling out on the first day.
The market pulsed with the energy of folk music, soca rhythms, and stunning street fashion displays.
From Wednesday to Friday, Jazz and Arts on the Square transformed Derek Walcott Square into a festive celebration of the arts. Not only did it feature world-class musical performances, but it also served as a vibrant platform to showcase the results of CDF’s creative training initiatives.
Wednesday’s Caliente–Latin Beats infused the Square with lively rhythms. A breathtaking mass movement performance by over 120 dancers, choreographed by the talented Jeanefer Jean Charles, set an electrifying tone for the day.
With dynamic Latin dance routines from SalsaKiz and the enchanting Caribbean jazz outfits from Barbara Cadet and Friends, attendees found themselves swept away by the infectious energy. The festival concluded on a high note with Nostalgic Friday, featuring a wonderful mix of theatre, jazz-infused reggae, and beloved Saint Lucian classics. The day began with comedic sketches, followed by the engaging improv theatre of Dramacan.
The mellow grooves of Ecuadorian band Jazz the Roots had audiences swaying, all while leading musical workshops for local students.
And let’s not forget the triumphant return of Diamond Steel Orchestra, delivering their first public performance in years, much to the crowd’s ecstatic delight.
As the evening unfolded, Piper and the Festival Band launched a nostalgic throwback party, igniting jubilant sing-alongs with every song.
This festival was more than an event; it was a celebration of the island’s rich cultural heritage and an opportunity to embrace and uplift local talent.
Photos: CDF