Pantomime can be our medicine
published: Tuesday | January 14, 2003
THE EDITOR, Sir:
ON A recent visit to Jamaica, I had pleasure of attending the current pantomime, Miss Annie. I must say, it was a pleasure, a real treat to be transformed back in time, and for a few hours, even forget about the hardships in Jamaica. Jamaican culture was on display at its finest, through song, dance, and art. The costumes and set design were pleasing to the eye, the humour was good for the soul, and the overall acting very delightful. The production and plot unfolded like an exciting, colourful novel.
This year's pantomime has restored a lot of the excitement and humour which pantomimes of long ago had. Every Jamaican should try to see it. Laughter is the best medicine, and the pantomime is one way to remind us of who we are and our history. It is so easy for us to lose our sense of national pride and history. We sometimes even lose sight of just how talented and 'rich' we really are.
My only regret was that this phenomenal Jamaican tradition was not staged in the majestic Ward Theatre in the heart of Kingston! I understand that the crime, plus poor town planning which result in inadequate parking, as well as general 'run down' of this historical theatre were the major reasons. I call on all relevant authorities to restore the splendour of the Ward and what it used to represent in the city. Art and culture is a vital part of our well-being and existence and cannot be ignored in our development.
I congratulate the script writer, the director, the actors, the musicians, the stage and costume designers, the sponsors and all others who were involved in this year's production.
