NASSAU, Bahamas — The Bahamas National Youth Choir, directed by Dexter Fernander, will open its 29th Annual Concert Season at the Dundas Center for the Performing Arts, April 10 -13, 2019, with nightly performances beginning at 8p.m.
Announcing this in a press release on Thursday, March 28, the National Youth Choir said concert-goers “can expect a spectacular show.”
“Since the year 1983, The Bahamas National Youth Choir has been a National Cultural Institution for self-growth, development and training, and the creation of responsible and confident citizens,” the release stated. “With this in mind, Director Fernander, along with choristers, has again worked tirelessly to present an evening of eclectic music, dance and theatrics that most say will be an unforgettable experience. The choir urges you to be prepared to hear traditional Classical music, Negro Spirituals, Broadway Tunes, and of course, Bahamian and International Folk music.”
The release added, “This year, the choir has a special treat for all in attendance, as they will pay tribute to the Legendary Stevie Wonder in their Show-Tunes section, making for a nostalgic evening of funky music from the 60’s. Additionally, the choir will pay special tribute to the famed Bahamian funk and disco group, the T- Connection in their folk section. Choir members are working hard to ensure both tributes will be grand. As Director Fernander says, ‘There’s something transformational about the Bahamas National Youth Choir which members strive to better themselves, to perform better every time’. Therefore, each promises to be fresh and like nothing you’ve ever seen the Bahamas National Youth Choir done before as will all numbers.”
The concert will also feature guest artists Cameron Pratt, Violinist and prodigy Sophia Marsh, Soprano.
“This year, both Cierra Evans and Michael Taylor will be honoured for their membership of five years,” the release stated.
When asked about their journey and what they’re most excited about, the release noted that Evans said, “When I joined the BNYC, I had just been fully introduced to my talent about a year prior, and the choir helped me grow immensely! I learnt things that I didn’t know singing or life required. I’m super excited to perform as always. I’m memorizing my music and choreography while trying to fight nerves that don’t ever seem to leave.”
Noting that he is immensely grateful for the musical training and guidance, Taylor said, “I’ve travelled places that I thought I probably would’ve never been able to visit. I’m truly grateful to be a part of such an organization whose main focus is to advance and nurture young Bahamians. I am eager to see how the audience will respond to what we have in store for our second-half segment”.
According to the press release, “Tickets are on sale at the Dundas’s Box office at $25. As the Gala Night is opening night, tickets will be $60, which includes wine and hors d’oeuvres. For those interested in Student Matinees which are set for 11am, April 12th and 13th and reserving tickets, call the Dundas at 393-3728 or 394-7179.
The Bahamas National Youth Choir was established in 1983, under the direction of its founder, the late Cleophas R.E. Adderley, OBE, as a part of the celebrations marking the tenth anniversary of Bahamian independence. Over the years the choir has toured and performed in twenty-eight countries on four
