Bigger prizes for NIFCA

INCREASED PRIZE MONEY and a new prize are in store for the 2012 season of the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA).
At a press briefing ahead of next week’s launch, Minister of Culture Stephen Lashley said yesterday that this year’s incentives were important for the development of NIFCA and to encourage participation. Lashley said it was the  first increase since the introduction of NIFCA.
Top achievers will also be showcased on other stages at other national events, he said.
For the first time, the Jackie Opel Award will be presented for an original, local musical composition. It will be open to amateurs and professionals and bring the winner a $1 500 cash prize, to be awarded annually. (YB)