The producers of RISE are pushing back against claims that the event sidelines Barbadian artistes, following public backlash over a statement made during last Wednesday’s official launch.
Nouvelle Vie, the production company behind the annual Crop Over event, issued a statement on Sunday clarifying remarks by Producer Orlando Newton that some interpreted as a slight against local performers.
Below is the full statement from RISE Producer Orlando Newton and the Nouvelle Vie team:
In light of recent public discussion surrounding comments made at the launch of RISE Wednesday, the producers, Nouvelle Vie, wish to clarify the remarks made by Producer Orlando Newton and reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the celebration and elevation of Barbadian talent.
“It is unfortunate that my comments were misconstrued,” said Newton.
“My reference to the 40ft-by-40ft stage was never a suggestion that Bajan artistes are unfit for it. Rather, it was posed as a challenge: Who will be the next emerging Barbadian act to command that stage — following the powerful rise of talents like Barbados’ Tionne Hernandez last year and Lady Lava in her own sphere.”
He continued, “It was a call to the audience and the wider public — who is the next big Barbadian act? I regret the confusion caused by an edited soundbite. But that challenge still stands.”
Since its inception, RISE has proudly featured Barbadian artistes in every production. From RISE Wednesday to RISE Dancehall and RISE Reggae, the platform has consistently showcased a diverse cross-section of local talent, including those who have voiced their perspectives on social media. RISE continues to highlight performers from Barbados and across the Caribbean, spanning genres such as Soca, Bouyon, Reggae, and Dancehall.
At its core, RISE is about uplifting local talent. Each year, the event provides a platform for Barbadian entertainers and DJs, helping to increase their visibility and earnings during the Crop Over season.
Since 2017, RISE has celebrated performances from a wide range of local stars, including: Lil Rick, Kirk Brown, Marzville, Stiffy, Nikita, Mikey Mercer, Hypasounds, Versatile, Edwin Yearwood, King Bubba, RPB, Gabby, Rhea Layne, Jamal Slocombe, Mahalia, DJs Dynasty, Antoine, Shanta Price, Summa, Peter Coppin, Jon Doe, Jordan English (MC), Scooby & the Gang, D Unit Band, Rite Side of Red, Biggie Irie & Band, Haynesville Youth Group, Stoned with Cupid, Indian & Chris Gayle, Bill Gates, The Legacy Team, DJ RAS, Daddy Biggz, and AON Skillz, among many others.
Nouvelle Vie finds it regrettable and grossly false, the claims that RISE is pushing an anti-Bajan sentiment after the team has worked hand-in-hand with local entertainers to ensure the event remains one of the grandest of the Crop Over season.
The recent “I Am Woman” showcase, co-produced with Patrice Roberts, was met with overwhelming reviews. The event featured seven Barbadian performers and a fully local Production team —underscoring RISE’s commitment to local talent and its responsiveness to patron feedback.
“We listened. We’ve made significant improvements in technical production, hospitality, and entry logistics based on last year’s feedback and these improvements were also highlighted at last Wednesday’s launch,” Newton.
RISE Barbados is also a proud contributor to the development of the creative economy. Each year, the event partners with local charities and provides students from the Barbados Community College (BCC) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) with immersive, hands-on experiences in the Orange Economy. These include work-based learning and Give Back opportunities for aspiring professionals in the arts and entertainment industries.
RISE Barbados remains a platform of celebration, inclusion, and artistic excellence. The team looks forward to continuing its mission of elevating Barbadian and regional talent.
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