12 Seychellois chosen for Seattle Children’s Festival |02 February 2013

The 12 finalists -- aged between 7 and 13 and who dance, sing and play music -- were selected from 40 children registered for the auditions which were held during the month of December 2012.

The children selected Carlos Bamboche (dance), Mary Chang Pen Tive (guitar and sing), Victoria Duthil (sing, art, stage exp.), Jose Bibi (sing, showman), Alexandra Duckworth (sing, dance), Adrien Cesar (dance), Bertrand Payet (sing), Michaella Lenclume (sing, dance), Rania Barbe (dance), Kelly Mathiot (dance), Stephan Fred (sing, dance, percussion), and Alexia Winston (violin).

The Ambassador for Women and Children Affairs and chair of the organising committee, Dr Erna Athanasius, said that these children are now following intensive rehearsals under the guidance of professionals in the different performing arts, to ensure that their final show at the festival will showcase not only Seychelles’ joie de vivre and harmony, but also its natural beauty.

The children's parents were informed of the successful auditions at a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all are extremely excited.

Most have volunteered to work closely with the organising committee so that the required funds can be raised for the trip.
Among the various activities which are on the fund raising agenda is a show at the Playroom on Eden Island on February 6, as well as another show featuring the children performing alongside known artists on March 23, 2013 at the International Conference Centre.

The children are also expected to take part in the float parade of the 3rd Carnaval International de Victoria on February 9, 2013, in an attempt to gain more recognition and support.

Ambassador Athanasius explained that the group will showcase a variety of talent on their float, testifying to the carnival's motto of ‘Seychelles - Melting pot of cultures’.

The ambassador added that the committee has been touched by the response and is immensely grateful for the support and pledges it has received so far from some institutions, organisations, companies and individuals.

She said the committee is urging others to follow suit and come forward to support this noble cause, adding that any and all contributions should make a difference and help make the children's dreams come true.

The Seattle festival is a free annual event entirely run by children younger than 14 years old, who come together to share their cultural heritage with others from various participating countries around the world, who have unique talents, perform unique national dances, and songs, exhibit musical performances, and display arts and crafts.

Ambassador Athanasius said that if Seychelles’ participation is successful, she hopes that this will be an annual event for Seychellois children.

Details about the festival can be found on the event’s website http://childrensfest.tacawa.org/