Republic Bank Barbados Limited has invested $176 250 into this year’s Pan Yard Lime and Pandemonium, as the bank reaffirmed its sponsorship of the key Crop Over steel pan events during Friday’s launch at the bank’s newest branch at Coconut Walk.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Carlene Seudat said the sponsorship marks Republic Bank’s fifth straight year as title sponsor of Pandemonium and fourth year for Pan Yard Lime.
“In keeping with that commitment, Republic Bank is pleased to announce a continued investment of $176 250 in support of the Pan Yard Lime and Pandemonium,” she said.
The Pan Yard Lime will be on Friday, July 3, at CARIFESTA House starting at 4 p.m., and on Sunday, July 5, Pandemonium will be at the National Botanical Gardens from 2 p.m.
Seudat described them as “must-attend events” on the Crop Over calendar, adding that they continue “to showcase and elevate the incredible art form that is steel pan”.
“What has been especially exciting to witness over the past few years is the growth of these events. We’ve seen larger and larger crowds, greater participation from young musicians, stronger community involvement, and incredible performances that continue to raise the standard year on year.”
She noted that the events also create economic opportunities “beyond the stage by supporting vendors, technicians, and small businesses during one of the most important periods of our cultural calendar”.
“This is the real impact of initiatives like this. They bring economic activity, yes, but they also bring joy and fun. They create memories, they give young people opportunities to shine, and they remind us of the power of shared experiences.”
The launch, held outside the Coconut Walk branch at Rockley, Christ Church, featured performances by a steel orchestra, a tuk band, stilt walkers, and revellers in Crop Over costumes, as patrons danced along to the music.
Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Youth and Culture Senator Shane Archer said the events had grown beyond entertainment into important community spaces.
“The Republic Bank Panyard Lime and the Republic Bank Pandemonium are not simply performances on Crop Over; they are cultural and community spaces,” he said. “They are spaces where discipline, creativity, mentorship, and national pride come together through one of the Caribbean’s most powerful musical instruments: the steel pan.”
He added that Pan Yard Lime gives young musicians opportunities to develop confidence and discipline through music.
“When a young person picks up a pair of pan sticks, they are not only learning music; they are learning focus, teamwork, and confidence. They are learning what it means to practice, improve, listen, and contribute to something bigger than themselves.”
Archer also highlighted the scale of Pandemonium, noting that more than 25 000 people attended last year at the National Botanical Gardens.
“This reminds us that steel pan is not only background music or a novelty; it is a world-class art form capable of carrying melody, rhythm, emotion, history, and innovation all at once.”
Referring to Barbados’ 60th anniversary of Independence and fifth anniversary as a republic, he said that culture remained central to national development.
“Culture is not separate from national development; culture is national development. It builds identity, creates opportunity, strengthens communities, and gives our people a sense of belonging.”
Cultural Officer for music education and event producer at the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), Kevin Moore, said the two events continue to support steel pan in Barbados, from schools and community groups to professional performers.
Steel Pan Orchestra performing at the launch of Pandemonium and Pan Yard Lime. (Photo Credit: Lauryn Escamilla)
“Republic Bank Pan Yard Lime features schools, community groups, and churches which are largely funded by the NCF through our Steelpan in Schools project,” he said, explaining that the initiative started in 2021 with three pilot schools and has now expanded to more than 20 schools, including four primary schools.
Pandemonium would again feature top national and regional acts, said Moore. “This year, Republic Bank Pandemonium will feature an amalgamation of Barbados’ best steel pan players performing as Legacy Steel Orchestra, Hells Gate Steel Orchestra out of Antigua and Barbuda, and of course the Barbados National Youth Steel Orchestra and many others, including the widely anticipated NCF Iron Massive.”
General Manager of Credit and Enterprise Risk at Republic Bank, Steven Jordan, said the bank’s continued investment in the festival reflected its belief that culture “transcends mere entertainment”.
“It embodies the essence of our nation and fuels our industries. It unites us, elevates our spirits, and serves as a reminder of our identity,” he said.
“As we launch this partnership today, we are not only announcing a sponsorship, we are reaffirming our commitment to our nation and youth and to the vibrant cultural traditions that make us all proud.”
(LE)
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