An evening of rousing music and regal performances marked the 60th anniversary of the Challenor Creative
Arts & Training Centre on Sunday.
Heart’s Sapphire was a milestone celebration set to the masterful tunes of the Barbados Police Service Band, which was joined in their performances by the inspired choreography of the Jackson Church Of God Sisters In Glory and by musical artiste Sir Ruel.
Various musical styles were represented throughout the evening – from jazz, to spoken word and steel pans.
Renditions of Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me To The Moon and other classics from the age of swing delighted the crowd, who were moved by the sweet serenades of the Barclays Singers.
The show was held in collaboration with the Barbados Council for the Disabled and was attended by students of the schools, their families and members from organisations representing the disabled community.
The concert, held at the Derrick Smith School and Professional Centre, was the first of many celebrations for the school and training facility that specialises in preparing disabled children and young adults for the world of work.
Established in 1964 to empower young Barbadians with disabilities through training, the centre has evolved over the years to become a technical and vocational educational and training council centre.
Speaking with the DAILY NATION, chairman of the Challenor Creative Arts & Training Centre, Dr Jennifer Campbell reflected on the school’s 60-year history.
“Words cannot explain. It’s just been a struggle. But when we look at the faces of these children, we see the joy and the pleasure, it is worth the 60 years and more,” she said.
Moving on from the six decades, Campbell expressed their desire to diversify their offerings, with courses that would be more attractive to young adults.
“We believe we have to change with the times. So our adult training facility we have to spruce up in terms of what the children want to do now they’re adults because . . . before we used to do agriculture, woodwork, arts and crafts, sewing . . . . So now the children want to do other things,” she said.
