Antigua and Barbuda Boosts Carnival Infrastructure and Creative Training

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) wrapped up a four‑day Music Development Masterclass from June 8‑12 at the Eustace Hill Campus in Coolidge. The programme brought together emerging and established artists, producers, DJs, songwriters, managers, dancers and visual creatives for intensive sessions on songwriting, mixing, mastering, distribution, copyright, marketing and visual branding. International facilitators Stephen “Int’l Stephen” Phillip, Daryll Gervais and Titan VCD delivered the training, while Minister of Creative Industries and Carnival Dwayne George and ABFC Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul reiterated the government’s commitment to nurturing the island’s creative sector.

In parallel, ABFC announced the completion of a new state‑of‑the‑art stage and roof system for Antigua Carnival 2026. The structure, built by Sound 2000 and capable of being configured in three sizes up to 115 feet long, is described by Managing Director Earl “Churchie” York as a “game‑changer” for the Eastern Caribbean. Prime Minister Gaston Browne inspected the venue, noting that the investment will serve national events such as the upcoming CHOGM Super Concert and support the creative industries for the next decade. Ongoing enhancements to Carnival City, including upgraded seating, lighting and landscaping, are planned to cement the festival’s legacy.