By John Emmanuel

Local artistes share the stage with regional and international acts

As the clock ticks toward the historic hosting of the twentieth edition of Saint Lucia Jazz, a record number of national acts are to feature prominently alongside regional and international artistes.

From solo acts like Mervyn Wilkinson and Taj Weekes to groups like 4th World, the Derek Yarde Project (DYP) and the Saint Lucian Collective (an ensemble comprising noted jazz musicians such as Barbra Ann Cadet, Emerson Nurse and Ronald Boo Hinkson along with other acclaimed musicians), this year’s Jazz line up represents an impressive mix of accomplished local acts.

Director of Tourism Louis Lewis says although the Saint Lucia Tourist Board (SLTB) continues to partner with BET Productions for technical production expertise, the increased presence of national acts is part of a broader initiative at transitioning the festival production to local ownership.

Said Lewis, “Throughout the history of Saint Lucia Jazz there has always been this perennial cry for more national involvement reflected in greater visibility of local artistes. Twenty years on we are demonstrating unequivocally that the event has come of age, by more than ever prominently showcasing home grown talent to an international audience.”

With the SLTB exercising greater creative control of the line-up, each day of the main stage events, from May 4 to the finale on May 8, will see one local act performing on main stage alongside regional and international artistes.

Other big name national acts featured on the 2011 line-up are Allison Marquis and Eclectic Pan Jazz, saxophonist Augustin “Jab” Duplessis featuring songstress Derede Williams and jam band Total Earth Movements (T.E.M.).

For more information about Saint Lucia Jazz visit www.saintluciajazz.org.

About Saint Lucia
One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies’ Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia (pronounced Saint LOO-sha) is nestled halfway down the eastern Caribbean archipelago. The “Helen of the West Indies,” Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a tropical rainforest and one of the world’s few drive-in volcanoes. Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, and the annual Saint Lucia Jazz Festival. Saint Lucia’s wide range of accommodations includes world-class five-star resorts, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns and value-oriented properties.