Sunday’s CIBC Caribbean’s “Music for the Cure” concert left audience members moved and inspired as young Antiguan performers took to the stage in a spectacular display of local talent.
The March 2nd event, which raised funds for cancer treatment and support services, featured performances from some of the island’s most promising young musicians, dancers, and vocalists. The concert opened with powerful affirmations delivered by 11-year-old Genesis Williams, setting a tone of hope and resilience that carried throughout the afternoon.
Joy-Marie Joseph, a cancer survivor and CIBC Antigua employee, served as the event’s host, bringing personal insight and emotional depth to the proceedings.
“What we witnessed today was nothing short of exceptional. The talent, the organization, the purpose – it all came together beautifully,” remarked Eunetta Bird from Breast Friends, one of the beneficiary organizations.
Among the most memorable performances was that of the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO), whose renditions demonstrated remarkable skill and precision. Individual standouts included Julia George on violin and eight-year-old pianist Eldana Room, whose performance belied her young age.
Island Academy’s Got Talent winner Allijah Richards received enthusiastic applause, while the Antigua Creative Dancers brought visual artistry to the event with their choreographed routines.
Several school groups showcased their talents, including the Spring Gardens Moravian Pan Orchestra, the Urlings Primary School Choir (recent winners of the Zone 1 Christmas Carol competition), Potters Primary School dancers, and musical ensembles from both Glanvilles Secondary and Freeman’s Village Primary School.
The afternoon reached an emotional peak when vocalists Alleah Alfred and Janelyn Michael performed, moving many audience members to tears. However, it was 11-year-old Enoch Thomas of Urlings Primary School who perhaps generated the most enthusiastic response, bringing the crowd to their feet with loud cheers and standing ovations.
CIBC Caribbean expressed gratitude to key contributors who made the event possible, including Claudine Benjamin, Managing Director of ABYSO; Caryl Edwards-Lewis, Education Officer for Performing Arts at the Ministry of Education; and various music teachers and their students from participating schools.
“Music for the Cure represents the intersection of artistic expression and community service. These young performers aren’t just showcasing their talents – they’re contributing to a cause that affects countless families across Antigua,” said a CIBC Caribbean representative.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Breast Friends and the Sir Lester Bird Medical Center’s Oncology Department, supporting cancer treatment and awareness initiatives throughout the island.
Those who missed the performance in March will have another opportunity to support the cause at the upcoming Hike for Cure event scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd.
Like Music for the Cure, all funds raised will go directly to cancer treatment and support services.
