365antigua.com recently spoke with Gilbert Laudat of the Cultural Department about the upcoming Wadadli Day, a showcase of all things Antiguan.  Mr. Laudat tells us that Wadadli day has been in place for 14 years, when Research Officer Ms. Bernadette Warner realised there wasn't an activity at the time that encompassed everything about Antigua and Barbuda. 

The festival has grown over the years to include local entertainment, activities, maypole, dances, singers and of course, lots of food and drink.  In fact, chefs will be cooking up traditional dishes like fungi right on the spot so everyone can see how it's down. The event has become a main activity of the Cultural Department's Event Calendar.  This year there will be a fashion show including clothes and accessories from some of the local fashion houses.  As well, the National Dance Theatre will be onstage, National Youth Choir, National Youth Orchestra and other activities. The eponymous Laviscount Brass will be receiving honours for its contibutions to Antiguan culture. Newly featured in 2010, is the Uprising Dance Troupe.  Liberta's Hygh Tempa Band, the 3 Cylinder Band and Arianne Whyte are also scheduled to perform. And, if that's not enough, the Department will showcase a small new brass band called Unlimited Songs, from its youth arm.
 
As the person responsible for events at the department, Laudat explains, its mandate is "to develop, research, develop and develop" local talents. To this end, in April a newly-created visual arts and crafts festival weekend is in the works, where people can come and buy and sample different things.  Laudat also wanted to let the public know that the deparment provides ongoing training in vocal and creative arts and all different aspects in the performing arts.  "We want to encourage people that you can have a career in the performing arts and not just doctors or lawyers". there is also a program for single parents, teaching them how to crochet, and to cook and other skills.

For more information on Wadadli Day, call the Cultural Deparment (local) 268.462.3586 or (international) 268.562.1723.