By Tracey Khan – Drakes
[www.inewsguyana.com]– Guyanese turned out in their hundreds to usher in the first ever Guyana Festival last evening (August, 08) at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara which showcases the affluent diverse culture and heritage of the different ethnic groups in the country.
Guyanese talent did not disappoint and came out in grand style to show what they are made of and how Guyanese can fuse six different cultures. The African, Indian and Amerindian cultures were displayed in a number of forms including, dance, song, drama, storytelling and poems.
The message that was delivered by acting Tourism Minister, Irfaan Ali was one of ‘confidence’ as he appealed to all gathered to celebrate “who we are with confidence”.
He believes this diversity that Guyana uniquely possesses will do wonders for the tourism sector. He called on all Guyanese to unite in ‘confidence’ despite the brewing ‘no confidence’ that is lingering over the Donald Ramotar lead administration by the combined opposition.
Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar wowed the crowd with his many dance moves when he joined the performers for the night on stage; he was then joined by several other government ministers who also danced, much to the amusement of the crowd.
The President reminded all of the old biblical verse: “man shall not live by bread alone” however, he modified the verse by adding that “we need culture, music, songs, dance, stories, our traditions, these are important.”
Guyanese cultural identity is invaluable to each person and should be protected and preserved, the Head of State noted.
“Guyanese have come from all over the world…..really we see the true meaning of the national motto one people, one nation, one destiny, because we have in our hands the ability to fuse a unique Guyanese culture that will build on the riches of our fore parents, in fusing and creating something new, something different and even richer and that will help us”.
He promised that the arts and culture of Guyana will always go alongside Guyana’s developmental agenda because it will develop and improve the quality of life for all.
The festival continues today at the National Stadium with a cricket match from famous and world class Guyanese cricketers; the fun goes until Sunday evening and will see many overseas based Guyanese performing at the night of legends concert including Lisa Punch.
Many products and services are being offered and showcased at over 30 booths at the festivals which could see someone wining a new car.
Both parties are garbage. Just destroying Guyana
pnc cant stand this::::::::::::: pnc want their people to not dance:::::::::::::pnc want their people to sport BERI BERI::::::::::::::::::we might be heading for a PNC RULE pretty soon::::::PNC rule here comes BERI BERI::::::::::::::::::::OH HOW AWEE GUYANESE MISS OUR BERI BERI:::::::::::::::::