(The Valley, Anguilla) - Plans are underway for Anguilla to be represented at the Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA) from 22nd – 31st August, 2008. This tenth edition of the regional mega festival will be returning to its place of birth, Guyana. The festival which was first held in 1972 aspires to be, “a world-renowned hallmark festival of Caribbean cultural and artistic excellence that generates economic benefits, unites the region and excites all the peoples”.

Anguilla’s participation in the regional mega festival is being coordinated by the Ministry of Social Development, Department of Youth and Culture through a CARIFESTA Planning committee. The committee is compromised of various stakeholders, such as The Anguilla Tourist Board, The Anguilla National Creative Arts Association, The Anguilla Music Publishing and Promotion, young people and others. The committee which has been meeting since January, 2008 will be responsible for selection of participants to represent Anguilla, preparation of an action plan for Anguilla’s participation and managing the implementation of that action plan

Artistes interested in attending CARIFESTA X in Guyana from August 22 – 31 are asked to register their interest with the department of Youth and Culture by calling 498-3792, 497-0969 or emailing youthandculture@gov.ai