In Guyana the best celebration of the performing arts in schools is seen in Mashramani where schools of all levels from all parts of the country exhibit untypical exuberance and keen rivalry. It is an explosion of various performing arts as well as the spectacular creation of costumes and bands. This raises questions about the state of the creative arts – in particular drama, dance and the related art of debating – in secondary schools. Most of the Mashramani extravaganza is produced by primary schools, schools from outside Georgetown, and those regarded as ‘junior secondary.’ The highest ranked secondary schools in Georgetown are much less visible.
The state of the arts, drama and debating in Guyanese schools reveals a bit of a paradox. The present situation reflects