Barbados is embarking on a cultural renaissance with a series of ambitious heritage and creative projects set to reshape the island’s cultural hubs over the next two years. Prime Minister Mia Mottley shared this vision during the opening of the Marcus Garvey Amphitheatre at Queen’s Park on Thursday, promising spaces that celebrate Barbadian history, creativity, and community.
Revitalizing Queen’s Park: A Hub for All Bajans
At the heart of this cultural transformation is Queen’s Park, which is poised to become a dynamic hub for artistic and social engagement. Mottley emphasized that the park must remain accessible to every Barbadian, fostering connections and creative expression day or night.
“Queen’s Park will undergo further renovations over the next year, evolving into a cultural haven where Bajans can gather, learn, and participate,” she stated. Existing facilities like the Queen’s Park Theatre and art gallery will be enhanced, with plans to include artists-in-residence, studio spaces, and the relocation of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) headquarters to the site.
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Heritage District to Shine a Light on History
One of the centerpiece projects is the development of the Barbados Heritage District, anchored by a monument at the Newton Burial Ground. This site, steeped in historical significance, will honor the island’s heritage, with the monument slated for completion next year.
Mottley also announced the construction of a state-of-the-art theatre at the Heritage District, designed to reflect the brilliance of Barbadian creativity. “Before we celebrate 60 years as a nation, we must have spaces worthy of our people’s genius, where artists can showcase their talents without compromise,” she declared.
Iconic Spaces in the Making
Other major projects include the expansion of the Daphne Joseph-Hackett Theatre at Queen’s Park, which will cater to a broader array of performances, and the creation of the Richard Stoute Amphitheatre at the National Botanical Gardens in Waterford.
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“This amphitheatre will be an iconic space for all Barbadians, reflecting the essence of who we are,” Mottley said, adding that construction will be completed next year after months of meticulous planning and negotiation.
The long-awaited National Art Gallery is also on the horizon. After years of collaboration with local artists and philanthropists, the government is now stepping in to lead its development, ensuring it becomes a reality.
A Space to Celebrate Marcus Garvey
The newly unveiled Marcus Garvey Amphitheatre at Queen’s Park will offer a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to access the Pan-Africanist leader’s speeches via QR codes and audio-visual displays. With a seating capacity of 314 and dedicated wheelchair spaces, the amphitheatre will be a welcoming venue for all.
Mottley highlighted that the amphitheatre joins other “sacred” spaces like Golden Square, serving as platforms for the physical, psychological, and spiritual expressions of Barbadians.
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Looking Ahead
In a nod to Barbados’s evolving identity, Mottley hinted at plans to relocate the statue of British Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson, which was replaced in Heroes Square by a monument celebrating the resilience of the Barbadian family.
With these transformative projects, Barbados is set to honor its rich history while creating vibrant spaces that inspire future generations. As Mottley expressed, these initiatives will ensure that the island’s cultural and creative spirit shines brightly on the world stage.
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