Red carpet premiere for NCF’s Josiah

Cast, crew and specially-invited guest were treated to a private viewing of local film Josiah – A Barbados Carolinas Story at the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre on Friday, May 21.

Those who attended the private preview were encouraged to walk the red carpet and pose so that the memorable moment could be captured. At the end of the film some delectable Bajan treats were gifted to the audience.

The film, produced by the National Cultural Foundation, is a historical docudrama that recounts the colonisation of the Carolinas in the United States of America. The storyline tells of the Barbadian “adventurers” who sought out prosperity in the new lands.

In the audience viewing the film were: Deputy Chairperson of the NCF’s Board of Directors Sheldon Hope, members of the NCF’s Board of Directors Alissandra Cummins and Aisha Comissiong and Chief Executive Officer of the NCF Carol Roberts-Reifer.

In delivering the welcome Producer of the film Stacia Bryan stated that the hour-long film was designed to educate and entertain audiences about our rich cultural heritage, explore contested and difficult stories through creative expression and to create visual cultural products which promote our island.

“One can only imagine that the process was challenging due to the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions. However, the team at the NCF, the production crew and the cast have worked tirelessly to ensure that this project is entertaining and informative.”

In extending a vote of thanks, Bryan mentioned the cast and crew, writer Reday Gray, proprietors of locations and all who were involved.

She singled out the Ministry without whose help the film would not have been possible.

“Special thanks to the Ministry of Culture and Youth Development in the Prime Minister’s Office for providing this opportunity that gives us the space to marry young budding creatives in a new culture sphere which reinforces the ministry’s mandate .”

Bryan explained that Merville Lynch Productions helped the Foundation to skillfully execute their plan on a digital platform.

“We, at the NCF, have grown accustomed to doing physical heritage events, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were forced to move out of our comfort zone and go digital.

The film premiered publicly on Sunday at 4 p.m. on CBC TV8, UWI TV and all NCF Social Media platforms.