2007 St John Arts Festival set for February 23–March 2 and includes art, crafts, music and drama
St John, US Virgin Islands (February 1, 2007) – St John is renowned for its award-winning beaches and breathtaking scenery. But from February 23 to March 2 visitors will have yet another reason to love the island: the 2007 St John Arts Festival in Franklin Powell Sr Park, Cruz Bay.
Themed “St John Through the Ages,” this exciting event will use art, crafts, music and drama to depict the island’s rich heritage and natural history.
“We are pleased that this year’s festival uses the visual and performing arts to celebrate the fascinating history of this truly unique island,” stated Acting Commissioner of Tourism Monique Sibilly-Hodge. “The festival will also put our youth in touch with our history, with an eye toward preserving our natural resources through the ages. It promises to be an educational, enlightening and entertaining week.”
Exhibits charting the evolution of the island will illustrate the intricacies of marine life, as well as flora and fauna. Daily performances by musicians will sketch the development of music on the island – from percussion instruments to scratch bands to contemporary sounds. Other highlights of the festival include performances of “Dear Ana/Dear Peter,” a play written by St John playwright Clarence Cuthbertson and set during the 1848 Danish emancipation of slaves; screenings of “Jamesie: King of Scratch,” a film produced and directed by St John resident Andrea Leland that traces the origins of scratch, or quelbe music, an art form exclusive to the US Virgin Islands, and concerts by 79-year-old musician James Brewster (whose nickname comprises the film’s title). In addition, several festival-related workshops and performances for children will be held at the St John School of Arts. The Seventh Annual Folklife Festival will take place during the same week in Virgin Islands National Park.
The St John Arts Festival is made possible by generous funding from the US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism and support from the Virgin Islands Council of the Arts. St John Arts Festival hours are 10am to 6pm, and admission is free. For more information, call (340) 776-1713.
As a United States Territory, the US Virgin Islands does not require proof of citizenship from US citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the US mainland. Entry requirements for non-US citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but US citizens.
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