The Saint Lucia National Steelbands Association (SLNSA) thought it was a good idea to bring five steelpan bands to the Vieux Fort Square on Saturday March 7th for a display of junior and senior talent. SLNSA was proven right as the band put on a display that thoroughly thrilled the crowd from start to finish. The midday event brought together Pantastic Muzik Steel Orchestra, LCCU Laborie Steel Pan, Pantime Steel Orchestra, Dennery Steel Orchestra and Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra.
The event which was hailed a huge success was supported by The Government of Saint Lucia, St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC), Forest Springs and the Vieux Fort South Constituency Council.
A number of supporters of the various groups came out to mark the occasion including Solange Martelly from The Laborie Corporate Credit Union, the main sponsors of the Laborie outfit. “It’s absolutely outstanding. The kids came with energy, they came with passion, they’re skilled and it beautiful to witness within all the groups.”
The event has been described as a travelling roadshow having staged events at a number of venues across the island including the National Cultural Center. The annual event is expected to grow considerably over the next few years which Martelly is looking forward to. “I see this as an event with tremendous potential for further development especially with our youth. We have persons who joined as early as five years old, like my sister. This improves their level of confidence and helps their versatility, making them more holistic individuals.”
Participants are already looking forward to the next organized event.