All stars of the arts take the stage at NIFCA Performing Arts Gala

The stage is set for an unforgettable evening of artistry and excellence when the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) presents the NIFCA Performing Arts Gala on Sunday, November 16, from 6 p.m. at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium.

The gala marks the grand finale of this year’s National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA), bringing together some of Barbados’ most outstanding talent from the disciplines of dance, music, theatre, and literary arts in one dazzling showcase.

This year’s event will feature mostly Gold Awardees from the 2025 NIFCA Performing Arts season, along with a few exceptional Silver Award winners and the top Gold Award recipient from Literary Arts. Together, they represent the very best of this year’s festival — performers who impressed judges with their originality, skill, and passion.

Audiences can look forward to captivating presentations from Pearl’s Dance Academy, Wesley Hall Junior School, Dimension Elite, Lumination Shift, Bim Cheer Federation, and Dancin’ Africa.

Representing music are the Christ Church Foundation School Steel Orchestra, Skyy Dowridge, Nikhyl Burnett, Damario Foster, Kenaz Walker, St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Band, ZZ Cumberbatch, and the St Cyprian’s Boys’ School Choir — all of whom stood out during the 2025 NIFCA season for their creative excellence and strong performances.

Theatre lovers can look forward to appearances by Akil Ifill & Tiffani Williams, Nakita Thomas of Northern Lights Drama Group, and Emmanuel Charles, while Roseann Pile, winner in the Literary Arts category, will also take the stage. Rounding out the lineup is Odane Bartley, who will present a mixed-discipline performance that bridges artistic forms.

The NIFCA Performing Arts Gala has long been regarded as the highlight of the festival season — a night when the best of NIFCA returns to the stage to celebrate creativity, dedication, and national pride. From energetic youth groups to veteran artists, the event showcases the spirit and skill that continue to define Barbados’ cultural landscape.

Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children, and are available at official box offices across the island, including NU Look (Bridgetown), Emerald City (Six Roads), Carlton Supermarket (Black Rock), A&B Music Supplies (Wildey), SmartStore (Limegrove & Welches), Ah Touch of Class (Bridgetown & Speightstown), and CS Pharmacy (Bridgetown). Tickets can also be purchased online at www.ticketpal.com.

As the NCF continues to champion local talent under the banner “The Tradition of Excellence Continues,” the 2025 NIFCA Performing Arts Gala promises to be a celebration of the arts at their finest. A  night to remember, and one not to be missed. (PR)