From St Lucia Times

Though language and distance separate, there’s no denying that the Caribbean region and Central and South American countries are historically bound by our colonial past and heritage. Recognizing the significance of this bond, recently the five Latin American Embassies—Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico and Venezuela—in a bold historic move united their efforts to strengthen ties between the Anglo-speaking Caribbean and Latin America. The very first initiative arising from this union is the Latin American and Caribbean Cultural Festival (LACFEST).

Created in collaboration with the Government of Saint Lucia, and now in its second year, the week-long LACFEST, seeks to enable cultural exchange through film, dance, music and food. Piloted and held in Saint Lucia for the 2nd consecutive year, LACFEST 2016 takes place from November 5-12. The event was undertaken to deepen awareness and understanding of the similarity of the cultures of the people of Our America – the People of Latin America and the Caribbean. This year the festival of cinematic pleasure, splendour, and intrigue will continue on its path to become a feature on the cultural landscape of Saint Lucia and a highlight on the touristic calendar of the Region.

Like last year, the main focus of “Festival 2016” is Latin American and Caribbean Cinema. Each Diplomatic Mission, in addition to the Audio-visual Association of Saint Lucia, will screen two (2) films from their country, one directed toward a school/student audience (a matinee show) and one for the General public, screened on evenings.

According to the Venezuelan Ambassador, the Festival Chair, “This Festival will allow us to appreciate the enormous diversity of the Latin American and Caribbean film industry, of which the technical, production and performance quality is truly world class. Additionally, the audience can also enjoy other complementary activities that each country will present to the participating public.” An event of this magnitude and quality could not be possible without the support of corporate partners. This year a number partners have graciously lent their support; Platinum Sponsor Digicel, Bronze Sponsors: Northwest Ltd, Caribbean Metals, J Q Motors, M&C Ltd, Blue Waters, Johnsons Hardware Ltd, St Lucia’s Distillers/ Barbay Ltd, and Advanced Intellectual Methods.

Free admission to all events at the National Cultural Centre which makes LACFEST 2016 a must on your social calendar!

For more on this story go to: https://stluciatimes.com/2016/10/31/saint-lucia-hosts-2nd-annual-latin-american-caribbean-cultural-festival