Minister Walwyn, seen here trying his hand at marbles during one of the Culture Week observances, is pleased with the overall outcome of the week's celebrations. Photo: Reuben Stoby/VINO

According to a press release from Government Information Service (GIS), Minister Walwyn told the Department of Information and Public Relations, “I am really impressed with the cultural artefacts and talents displayed during the various cultural events and I encourage Virgin Islanders to pass on the traditional way of life so that generations to come would appreciate the legacy of this Territory.”

In further expressing his appreciation for the cultural celebration, Minister Walwyn said he was elated with the traditional activities portrayed throughout the schools.

“The activities and programmes were very well organised and the students, very receptive,” he said. “Students were able to get a full appreciation of what VI Culture is.”

At the BVI Technical and Vocational Institute, the Minister and other guests were treated to a skit down memory lane which highlighted the different outfits and utensils used ‘back in the day’. Also, students played a traditional game of marbles and grilled fish.

The grounds of the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School were transformed into a traditional market where persons purchased local produce such as bananas and sugar cane. They also had a taste of peas soup, fish soup, johnny cakes and local drinks including lemon grass punch and ginger beer among others.

Additionally, students learned how to make tart and rice pudding. Each primary school had its unique way of portraying and appreciating the local culture.

Among the activities for culture week was the local author book fair, a new initiative for Culture Week.

At the fair Minister Walwyn said, “I am impressed with what I see; the work that has been chronicled by our people and I encourage everyone to buy the books from the local authors and pass them on to their children and grandchildren so that the legacy of the VI is passed from generation to generation.”

The Fifth Annual Fungi Fest was also a highlight during Culture Week 2011. Performances featured local and regional artists including Serenaders, Leon and the Hot Shots, Razors Blades, Lashing Dogs and the Gospel Fungi Band Zion Sounds from the VI and The Jolly Boys from St. Martin, the Ole Time Jammers from Tobago, the Quelbe Ambassadors of St. Croix, Flambo Combo of St. Thomas, and Koko and the Sunshine Band of St. John.

Minister Walwyn thanked the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Department of Culture for his seamless transition into Culture Week, his first major activity days after being sworn as the Minister for Education and Culture.

Culture Week 2011 was celebrated in the Territory from November 13 to19 under the theme, “From Whence We Came: Our Virgin Islands History.” It is held annually to highlight and showcase Virgin Islands culture and strives to promote and preserve the Territory’s cultural heritage.