Theatre enthusiasts, cultural connoisseurs, and anyone seeking an unforgettable experience are invited to witness La Cour des Arts de la Dominique Inc., in collaboration with the Alwin Bully Foundation bring to life ‘The Nite Box – A Caribbean Murder Story Mystery.’
Under the adept direction of Curtis Clarendon, this theatrical endeavour, penned by Dominica’s late cultural icon Alwin Bully, promises to not only showcase Bully’s mastery of storytelling but to also highlight his ability to weave intricate narratives that reflect the region’s history and societal nuances.
Speaking exclusively to Dominica News Online, Clarendon, the play director, highlighted that combining the talents of the La Cour des Arts ensemble and the dedication of the Alwin Bully Foundation, this production which will take centre stage on August 11, 12, and 13, with nightly performances at 8 p.m at the Goodwill Primary School Auditorium promises to be a dynamic and emotionally charged portrayal.
Clarendon declared that the decision to stage the play originates from a deep desire to recognise Bully’s remarkable achievements in Dominica’s theatre industry and beyond.
By highlighting Bully’s legacy, the theatrical production hopes to reinforce the significance of preserving and safeguarding local artistic treasures. He went on to note that the staging of ‘The Nite Box’ amplifies the call for greater support of the arts on the island while drawing attention to the immense reservoir of young talent yearning for outlets to showcase their creativity.
Dominica, he believes, can develop as a hub for artistic creativity and expression if an atmosphere that nourishes this potential is fostered. More can be done, he says, to broaden the potential for the growth of theatrical arts in Dominica, as he stressed that the chosen venue should prompt reflection on the need for dedicated spaces for the performing arts.
“We should be in a space that is dedicated to theatre, that sort of thing,” the director stressed. “It also raises the question, what is happening with the Arawak House of Culture?”
Clarendon, in the spirit of community participation, urged the general public to band together in favour of the arts, noting that public support will contribute to the future growth of theatre in Dominica.
“The thing is, the more help we can get, the better because theatre is a community affair. so when you get the community involved everyone benefits,” he stated. “Therefore, I would really like to ask the public to support us in this venture and to come and enjoy a night of theatre. Come and see what it is that we do as a people. When you come in you give us the energy to continue.”
Looking ahead, the collaboration between La Cour des Arts de la Dominique Inc. and the Alwin Bully Foundation aims to not only continue bringing Bully’s work to life but also to explore the works of other playwrights that can propel the art form forward. Chad Zamore, Maria ‘Lady Star’ Stedman, Jonathan Theophille, Yanson Hilaire, Leona John, Adella David, Gael ‘King Trilla G’ JnoBaptiste, Sky Casimir, and Kerwin Jorvan JnoBaptiste are among the cast members who have promised to deliver an unforgettable performance that will resonate with audiences of all ages.
Tickets cost $45 and can be purchased at BullsEye Pharmacy, the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), or through cast members.
Very good to see that Alwin Bully’s legacy in the creative arts lives. Well done!
How are folks able to view the play? will there be an on demand video or anything set up for foreign viewers?
Nite Box is an excellent Alwin Bully play.
I am certain that Director Curtis Clarendon and the long-established theatre company,
La Cour Des Arts,
will do fine artistic justice to this wonderful sample of Dr. Bully’s incredible cultural legacy.
I encourage the public to go out and take full advantage of this timely cultural offering.
I support Curtis Clarendon’s call for greater support of the arts on the island. To that end, I hope that the Alwin Bully Foundation can serve as a means of bringing it about.
But remember, art relates to creativity, and creativity is something different to what has gone before. Art differs from culture: culture is something we feel comfortable with. On the other hand, art explores new ways of seeing, thinking and doing, and as such, all aspects of the creative arts can be controversial.
Many years ago, when discussing this topic with Alwin, his response was, “We’re just not ready for it.” I hope Alwin’s legacy will serve as an awakening.
Alwin was a man ahead of his time – open minded, creative, forward looking. I had the great honour of working with him when he was chief cultural officer. I’ve never had a better colleague. He was always encouraging, collaborative and thoughtful. Such a great person….