Dear Editor,
I must introduce a discordant note and risk offending many persons in Guyana, including the highest officials, who were enthused by the cultural presentation in Abu Dhabi. Guyana was undersold! The presentation contained mispronunciations e.g. ‘wadder’ for ‘water’, obscure symbolism, the most idiotic one being an artist with two feathers sticking out of his forehead. The dancers were vigorous and enthusiastic in supporting this cultural horror. The costumes were costumes and that’s all I can say about them. Kaieteur ‘Fall’ is the new name for Kaieteur ‘Falls’? Old Kaituk would float again if he knew! What river does this unique Falls fall into? Tell me. Too many high kicks and running around!
Consider another presentation: Large screen projecting the absolute splendour of Guyana’s waterfalls, Kaieteur and other beautiful falls, large rivers, photographs of the fascinating wooden city including St George’s Cathedral, the huge koker doors that open and close, video of Iwokrama and other nature reserves, Roraima, choir presenting the folk culture of Guyana, beautifully dressed Indian dancers, special presentation on the First Nation tribes, children singing national songs, the same young people walking among the audience presenting tokens… And may I ask if all persons of European descent have left Guyana? I looked to see some high colour and maybe looked in the wrong place. And above all, a group of trained performers who prioritized the needs of the audience.
This was an opportunity to give Abu Dhabi what they do not have: Guyana’s beauty, the very natural beauty which they themselves do not have, the rivers, the falls, the forests, the multicultural population, the cuisine. Poor consultation, insufficient communication produced this whatever it was! The performers tried hard but they did not have competent direction. Do not do this again! Ask advice from those who know. Wishing future presentation much power! Guyana needs boldness in its cultural presentations. Guyana can astonish the world not with mediocrity but with excellence! So I say!
Sincerely,
Gabriella Rodriguez
