Remembering Rex on Feb 19
Former NDTC Principal Dancer Melanie Graham to be honoured
Rex Nettleford Foundation will stage the 14th edition of Remembering Rex on Wednesday, February 19 at Little Theatre, starting at 7:00 pm.
The artistic tribute to the late co-founder of National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) and vice chancellor of The University of the West Indies (UWI) will feature a vibrant mix of dance numbers by the NDTC and a recital by The University Singers.
“Professor Rex Nettleford was a thinker and doer, who represented the best of us as a people. He understood the complex ways in which culture shapes and is shaped by society and he was a firm believer in renewal and continuity. So, we’re pleased to present another enchanting artistic experience that pays homage to his life and legacy,” said Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind, executive director, Rex Nettleford Foundation.
Each year the foundation honours an individual who has given dedicated service to the NDTC or the Little Theatre Movement. This year’s honoree is Melanie Graham, a former NDTC principal dancer and director and marketing manager of Palace Amusement.
Milton Samuda, chairman of NDTC shared: “We’re delighted this year to honour Melanie Graham, a super-talented dance artist and devoted teacher, who has done much to influence, advance, and validate the creative vision of the NDTC. From her appearance as Edna Manley in Bert Rose’s critically acclaimed
Edna M in 1987 to her mentorship of young members of the company, Melanie has been a powerful force on and off the stage for decades.”
Proceeds from the show will continue to fund scholarships for students from The UWI, Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, and Cornwall College, who demonstrate the promise of Rex Nettleford.
On Monday, February 3, 2025 the third annual Rex Nettleford Distinguished Lecture was delivered by Brown University professor of humanities of African studies Anthony Bogues on Caribbean cultural evolution. The lecture coincided with what would have been Professor Rex Nettleford’s 92nd birthday.