Members of the ASHE performing group. - Contributed

Celebrating 16 years of live 'edutainment', managing director of ASHE Performing Arts Company, Conroy Wilson, said the group would showcase the indomitable Jamaican spirit in its upcoming season of excellence.

"It's expected that we will spark so much love and appreciation for the love and beauty of Jamaicans. We will show Jamaica what is possible, just like how the athletes have shown what can be done with hard work. It will also showcase what ASHE has been doing, and how viable ASHE has been over the last 16 years," said Wilson.

ASHE has been an example of possibilities as it continues to operate without a home and limited funds.

ASHE has had successes both internationally and locally in the theatre industry. It has been a part of a revolution in the performing arts and an innovation in educational entertainment for community transformation and social development throughout the Caribbean and around the world.

Four performances

The group will have four performances: its two original hit musicals, Lift Up Jamaica and Curfew, and Boonoonoonoos and Brawta and Higher Ground from September 29 to October 4 at the Little Theatre.

"We are using this to promote our culture and encourage cultural retention and preservation. Our season of excellence is the perfect example of how we can boost Jamaica's tourism industry through theatre," Wilson added.

The Gleaner recently visited a rehearsal session at the School of Dance at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts (EMC) where the high-spirited 45-member team was under the guidance of directors Michael Holgate, Michael Harris and Wilson. The members were participating in a rigorous training session of drama, dance and vocals.

High hopes

Wilson, who lectures in the arts management degree programme at EMC, was buoyant about the upcoming season and, despite all the challenges, he believes they will have another successful season.

"I'm excited. Anxious. It's really a feeling of great achievement to know that we have managed to make it to 16 years. A lot has happened and we have fought through and continue to provide 'edutainment' and be ambassadors at it," Wilson pointed out.

He said, while it has always been challenging to accumulate the necessary funds to meet its goal, there are high hopes of reaching the $4 million budget required for this year, as partners Juici Patties, Michi Super Centre and Tetley Tea Co have already pledged their support.

Discussions are also currently taking place with Wisynco Group Ltd, but Wilson reiterated that come September 29, ASHE will be onstage, ready to perform, no matter what.

He added that ASHE's palate of entertainment is all encompassing, including all the major disciplines of theatre.

"ASHE has a unique edge to any or all of its competition. One is that we do singing, acting and dancing, while most do two or one of the above. ASHE itself is all about self-development and self-empowerment and people always talk about ASHE with its high energy and we can fit into any occasion," highlighted Wilson.

Members of the ASHE performing group. - Contributed