The National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) is celebrating 15 years as the country’s leading stage for artistic excellence.
The milestone was marked with an event highlighting the role of NAPA in nurturing and showcasing the talents of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Programme Manager of the National Performing Companies, Rondelle Alleyne, said NAPA continues to serve as a cultural beacon.
“For a decade and a half, NAPA has been a beacon of artistic excellence, and we will celebrate this milestone through special performances that honour our past while embracing our future. One of our most exciting initiatives is the CAP, Cultural Arts Pathway, a transformative programme that will empower our youth through training in all aspects of the performing arts, from stage performance to technical production.”
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a packed performance calendar has been unveiled, along with a new initiative aimed at developing young talent.
“In April to June, we have our just concluded ‘This Is Art’, which we just had on April 5th, on Saturday. Jazz Fusion on the 2nd and 3rd of May, and ‘Moon On A Rainbow Shawl’ on the 26th to 29th of June. In July to September, we have CAP Programme from the 10th July to the 9th of August. ‘Sold To The Boundary’ on the 11th to 13th July.”
Chairman of the Board, Olson Oliver, said the institution continues to rise in stature and national pride. Mr. Oliver described NAPA as an evolving cultural hub, saying it embodies the spirit and creativity of Trinidad and Tobago.
“We live NAPA, we breathe NAPA, we dream NAPA. When you hear pan, our national musical instrument, you think National Steel Symphony Orchestra. When you hear our National Philharmonic Orchestra, you feel as though you’re on Broadway or in the Sydney Opera House or in some global space where there’s excellence.”
He also thanked supporters and stakeholders who have helped shape the Academy’s success over the past 15 years.