The International Dance Festival, hosted by Dr. Shola Roberts, marked a triumphant return earlier in October, drawing a vibrant crowd that celebrated Grenada’s rich dance heritage and community spirit. Running from October 19-21, the festival coincided with Grenada’s 50th anniversary of independence, making it a milestone event in both cultural and national significance.

Dance Grenada Founder and Executive Artistic Director Dr. Shola K. Roberts gives opening remarks during the inaugural Dance Grenada Concert at Bay House Grenada in St George’s on Oct. 18. Photo by Reginald Joseph

Dr. Roberts, founder and artistic director of Dance Grenada, recently defended her doctoral dissertation while embracing new motherhood’s joys. Despite these personal milestones, her unwavering commitment to dance and cultural preservation has remained at the forefront of her endeavors. “The balance comes from having a community and a village that believes in your work… It’s truly unique to see how people show up for you, and when they do, you have no choice but to show up for yourself and your community, “she noted.

Now in its fifth year, the festival has become a crucial platform for local and international artists. This year’s programming honored Benue La Grenade, Grenada’s oldest dance company, celebrating its five decades of contribution to the island’s cultural landscape. “We honor those who have created spaces for younger generations to practice dance,” Roberts noted, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the pioneers of Grenadian dance.

Conception Dance Theatre performed the opening number, “From the Ground Up,” during the inaugural concert at Bay House Grenada on Oct. 18, celebrating the 5th anniversary of the Dance Grenada Festival. Photo by Reginald Joseph

Throughout the festival, attendees participated in dance courses, panel discussions, and cultural exchanges, fostering a multi-generational community of dance practitioners. The event also provided scholarships for aspiring artists, allowing them to continue their studies and engage in meaningful artistic exchanges. “Since 2020, we’ve offered full scholarships, and this year, we’re offering both full and partial scholarships,” Roberts said, highlighting the initiative’s role in supporting the next generation of dancers.

As an assistant professor at Arizona State University, Dr. Roberts is passionate about integrating dance into academic curricula in Grenada. Her doctoral research revealed a significant gap in educational platforms for dance in the country. “There is no space for dance artists to continue their training at higher education levels,” she explained, hoping her work will pave the way for future generations to view dance as a legitimate career and academic discipline.

Trinidadian dancer, choreographer, Assistant Professor of Dance La Shaun Prescott, and Conception Dance Theatre member Rose Bhagwan performed a beautiful duet during the inaugural Dance Grenada concert at Bay House Grenada on Oct. 18. Photo by Reginald Joseph

Enthusiastic participants’ turnout and the rich diversity of attendees — from students to established artists — all gathered for what Roberts described as a “multi-generational cultural exchange” marked the festival’s success. “This is not just about the youth; it’s about learning and growing across all generations,” she added.

With her dedication to sustaining and expanding Grenadian dance culture, Dr. Roberts continues to inspire and unite communities through the power of dance, reinforcing the island’s cultural identity and artistic traditions. As the festival concludes another successful year, the commitment to uplift and celebrate Grenada’s vibrant dance heritage remains more vital than ever.