photo by Department of Culture
Antigua and Barbuda has wasted no time making its presence felt at CARIFESTA XV, the region’s biggest celebration of Caribbean culture.
Just days into the 10-day festival, the delegation is already turning heads with powerful performances that blend heritage, innovation, and youthful energy.
photo by Department of Culture
On Friday night, all eyes were on the legendary Burning Flames Band, which stormed the stage at the Super Concert to mark their 40th anniversary.
For Khan Cordice, Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Culture and head of delegation, this moment was no accident.
“We built this team to showcase the very best of who we are — our legacy acts, our innovators, and our young stars. So far, I think it’s clear that Antigua and Barbuda is making its mark.”
photo by Department of Culture
The delegation is indeed a carefully balanced mix. Alongside Burning Flames are Panorama champions Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, a dynamic National Combined Dance Theatre, reigning Calypso Monarch Ge’Eve, and a host of visual artists, writers, and culinary experts. On Saturday, the youth took center stage as the Combined Dance Theatre captivated the audience, while Ge’Eve’s stirring calypso performance drew loud applause. Hell’s Gate, paired with Calypsonian Empress, was set to perform Sunday night in what promised to be another standout moment.
Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, Daryll Matthew, said the delegation’s success so far is a proud reflection of the nation’s cultural strength.
“CARIFESTA gives us the chance to show the region what we’ve always known — Antigua and Barbuda is a cultural powerhouse. I have no doubt our artists will continue to shine.”
photo by Department of Culture
Beyond the stage, Antigua and Barbuda’s impact is equally strong. The country’s booth at the Grand Market has drawn steady crowds with its mix of arts, crafts, and culinary offerings, while also promoting upcoming national events like Art Week 2025, Carnival 2026, and One Nation 2026.
So proud to see our young dancers and Calypso Monarch Ge’Eve shining on the regional stage. Antigua and Barbuda really is a cultural powerhouse.
The inclusion of youth is the most powerful statement here. If our dancers and young calypsonians can command regional stages now, imagine where they’ll be in 5–10 years.
All about fun and frolic. Is so we know how to live. Can’t be bothered about much. Is fet we fettting.
Every time Antigua and Barbuda steps onto the regional stage, we shine!
We may be small but we tallawah.
Been standing “big” for years. Just never took the credit. Antigua Benna music was incorporated into Soca to give that sweet jumpy. The first to do jump and wave. The first to give the world “steelpan”. Always shy about taking credit. Flames is Benna music. Antigua soca is Benna-Soca.
The performances were breathtaking. From the music to the dance and the art displays, Antigua and Barbuda truly made their presence felt. We’re small but mighty!
Good showing out. Go out there and keep representing. Show them how we do it in 268
I am from Barbados and attended a Theatre night featuring Antigua and Barbuda. The performance was excellent!!