Charlestown, Nevis (Monday, November 11th 2019) — The youth on Nevis will soon benefit from a new avenue to showcase their talent to the local, regional and international level with the launch of a new social media series ‘Live from the Vinyard: We plant the seed for arts’ potential.’
The new social media show is scheduled to start Wednesday, December 4th 2019 and is expected to highlight youth between ages 18 and 25. In an exclusive interview, Founder and creator of the show, Ervin ‘Ounce’ Weeks, explained the purpose of launching the event.
“The idea of Live from the Vinyard stems from my line of work, you see a number of talent out there. You talk to people and they say they don’t have any venue or avenue to express their talents. So why not use my space, use my skills, use the equipment I have and showcase Nevis on a different level? “Let me use my little talent, use the space that I have to give the local artiste a space and an avenue to express their talents.” he said.
He also outlined that while this venture showcases the youth talents, it also serves as a way for him to give back to his Hamilton community and also Nevis. “This is just me giving back because I’ve had people who showed an interest in me and what I had to do and were willing to give me that avenue to grow, giving me the wisdom.” he explained.
He also clarified that the show is not limited not only singers and dancers but is also open to instrumentalists, painters and anyone having a talent in the performing arts industry.
Weekes explained that his Vinyard, which is located at Hamilton, has always been catered to upholding the culture focusing on the traditional ways of cooking, farming and living and he believes in affording the youth the opportunity to show their talent as he was previously offered the same.
“Some people need to put themselves in that position where they will be that vehicle, that they will be that guide and by us doing that by us creating that space where the artist can come and express, it will show them that someone is interested in what they are doing somebody sees that you have a talent, no longer do you have to keep it hidden,” he said.
Mr. Weekes also used the opportunity to invite anyone between the ages 18 to 25 to participate and encouraged others who know talented youth between the age range to suggest them also. “If you have a talent, you have something you want to showcase, not only to Nevis but also to the wider world this is an opportunity for you to come on board.”
While Live at the Vinyard will be streamed live on Facebook will highlight each performers talent individually, it will also feature each performer’s journey as well as bring attention to the challenges and opportunities faced within the industry on the island.
Persons interested in participating or recommending talented youth can email cepainskn@gmail.com or contact 660-5043. Direct messages can also be communicated via social media platforms, CEPA_SKN on Instagram or CEPA on Facebook.