KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaicans seeking to sharpen their creative talents, build confidence and develop skills in speech, drama, music, dance and traditional folk forms are being encouraged to participate in the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) face-to-face Performing Arts Workshops, scheduled across the island throughout November and December 2026.
Coordinated by JCDC Parish Offices, the workshops will provide participants with hands-on training, practical guidance and direct feedback from experienced facilitators and JCDC Development Specialists to help them refine their techniques and strengthen their performances.
The workshops complement a series of free online activities, which began with general information sessions from November 2–6 and will continue with more focused, theory-based national online workshops covering specific subject areas from November 9–13.
Together, these training opportunities form part of the Commission's ongoing efforts to develop Jamaican talent, catering to persons preparing for the 2027 National Festival of the Performing Arts, as well as members of the wider public seeking to improve their skills or explore new creative interests.
Director of Arts Development and Training at the JCDC, Andrew Brodber, said the workshops are designed to meet the varying needs of participants while providing opportunities for development beyond competition preparation.
“Our online and face-to-face workshops are designed to meet the different needs of participants. While the online sessions provide valuable information and guidance, we recognise that some disciplines require more practical, hands-on training. The face-to-face/ practical workshops offer that opportunity for participants to practise techniques, receive direct feedback and strengthen their skills under the guidance of experienced facilitators,” Brodber said.
The Commission is particularly encouraging teachers, students, cultural groups, aspiring performers and returning competitors to take advantage of the in-person training which offers opportunities to work directly with facilitators and receive guidance tailored to their respective disciplines.
Among the facilitators will be renowned Jamaican choreographer and dance educator Dr. L'Antoinette Stines, recognised for her work in Jamaican popular and folkloric dance and contemporary dance development. Having taught and lectured across the Caribbean, Africa and Europe, Dr. Stines believes that the value of performing arts training extends well beyond the stage.
“Competitions give performers an opportunity to showcase their talents, but much of the growth happens through training, practice and discipline. Over the years, I have seen how the performing arts can help people become more confident, express themselves better and learn to work with others. These are skills that stay with them long after a competition or performance has ended,” Dr. Stines said.
Beyond developing performance techniques, the workshops will provide opportunities for participants to deepen their appreciation of Jamaica's rich cultural traditions while gaining valuable skills they can apply in their creative pursuits and everyday lives.
A small workshop fee applies to the face-to-face workshops, with substantial discounts available to students. Interested persons are encouraged to contact their respective JCDC Parish Offices for registration details.
