CARIFESTA XV Training Push Aims to Raise the Bar for Local Dancers

With just weeks to go before the Caribbean’s largest arts festival takes centre stage, local dancers are stepping up to the challenge — quite literally — as CARIFESTA XV’s training programme intensifies.

Led by celebrated choreographer and dance educator Dawn-Lisa Callender, the latest session of the Festival’s national training workshops sent a strong message: Barbados must deliver at an international standard.

Callender made it clear that excellence is not optional. “This is not about doing a show. This is about raising the standard of dance in Barbados — and keeping it there,” she said.

“CARIFESTA is a regional stage. It’s our time to show that we are not just capable — we are exceptional.”

As part of Barbados’ preparation to host CARIFESTA XV from August 22 to 31, local performers are undergoing intensive development across disciplines. For dancers, this means mastering complex choreography, embracing discipline, and understanding how to connect movement with storytelling — skills that Callender insists are essential to compete on a world-class stage.

The national contingent will showcase pieces that reflect themes of heritage, resilience, and creative innovation, in keeping with the Festival’s broader vision of celebrating Caribbean identity while pushing cultural boundaries.

The current workshops also act as auditions, giving dancers a chance to earn their spot in high-profile festival performances.

“We are training professionals. This is a launchpad — not just for CARIFESTA, but for what comes after. And I want every dancer in this room to leave knowing they have levelled up,” Callender said.

With momentum building and expectations rising, Barbados’ dance community is stepping forward with purpose — ready to show the region what the island’s talent can do.