I am writing to let you know that the opening of NAPA South was a crying shame and insult to the steelpan fraternity of San Fernando. This was not a multi-cultural opening but rather a bi-cultural programme of only singing and two dance performances.  

I am of the opinion that it is either the organisers of this programme just do not like the steelpan or they did not think our national instrument was worthy of the gracious stage of NAPA South.  

These people should be dismissed from any future cultural event planning as they clearly show no respect for the other aspects of culture such as our steelpan, literary foundation and the talented disabled persons, to name a few.

Culture is the one thing that brings all people of different ethnic groups, race, religion and languages together. This is one of the main aspects in our society that exhibits how cosmopolitan a country we are and the beauty of our diverse cultures coming together as one. This was sadly lacking at the opening of NAPA South.  

To say the least, no pan on stage for the grand opening of NAPA South? My mistake, the steelpan was only worthy of entertaining the specially invited guest whose main interest after the launching was to just fill themselves with refreshments (as everyone was hungry) and leave.  

This was also an insult to the veteran pannist, arranger and musician Mr Darren Sheppherd. Wasn't he not worthy of performing on the NAPA stage for everyone?

The Ministry of Multiculturalism needs to apologise to the South pan fraternity, steelpan enthusiast and steelpan players. After all if there were no pan players, there would be no Panorama and there would be no revenue to get. You know, "the domino effect".

Speaking of South pan fraternity, I don't believe there were any present. Were they invited?

To the Ministry of Multiculturalism, I think you have missed your calling. The pan is the only instrument invented in the 20th century, and it was invented here in our country. We should be proud of this, but as I have already said, the persons who have organised this so-called multi-cultural or bi-cultural programme do not like the steelpan. After all, some of the world's renowned pannist are from San Fernando.  

Last but by all means not least, all the artistes performed with excellence. It was the organisers that failed. It was like craving for a rosy julie mango and when you did get the mangoes it was so much that you got fed up!    

Candace Achaiba

via e-mail