Voice of Guyana International

Georgetown, GINA, December 4, 2007

The formation of the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) and its 2008 hosting in Guyana will be some of the exciting features found in a new magazine soon to be published.

This was recently revealed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony as part of the public relations campaign in the lead-up to the ten-day hosting of the festival.

Minister Anthony said the magazine which is being printed locally has already attracted sponsorship through advertisements from several private companies. It will be circulated in Guyana and around the Caribbean region. Some 5,000 copies of the magazine have been printed.

The awareness campaign is also expected to be heightened with the launching of “Talk CARIFESTA”, a special television programme to be shown on the National Communications Network (NCN) which has also agreed to heighten awareness of the festival by a public showcasing of films in the Caribbean.

Information on CARIFESTA X can be accessed at its website, www.carifesta.net. The website features a photo gallery, press room, a history page, and access to advertising, accommodation and registration, and other details.

Included are CARICOM member States which are represented by their national flags which when selected, gives access to information on country profiles and other details.

CARIFESTA first began in Guyana in 1970, following an Arts and Writers Convention when stakeholders crafted a programme to showcase the Region’s rich cultural heritage and at the same time give recognition to its outstanding artists and art forms.

Since its formation, 35 years ago, seven CARICOM member States were privileged to host the mega event. Guyana’s commitment to host the popular event follows a decision by the new Administration of The Bahamas that it was not prepared to host the festival.

Tagged: CARIFESTA, Guyana