NDTC finale to deliver rich celebration of Jamaican dance, culture in Montego Bay

Dancers from the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (NDTC) perform during the NDTC gala media launch held at the S Hotel in St. James on July 8.  (Photo by Serena Grant)

 

For one historic evening, Montego Bay will become the stage on which one of Jamaica's most celebrated cultural institutions closes another remarkable season, while opening a new chapter in its enduring legacy.

 

On August 16, the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) will take its final bow for the 2026 season, with a rich celebration of Jamaican dance and culture, at the Iberostar Theatre in Rose Hall, St. James.

 

It will be the first time in its 64-year existence that the eminent dance company will close its season outside of Kingston, bringing its acclaimed repertoire to western Jamaica.

 

It is a production that Artistic Director, Marlon Simms, tells JIS News has been carefully crafted to appeal to every member of the audience.

 

"The Montego Bay audience will get the full dose of the NDTC. The same show that we perform in Kingston, the same show that we [perform when we] travel to the diaspora, is the same show that will be performed in Montego Bay, so they feel not left out; they feel included,” Mr. Simms tells JIS News.

 

To deliver that experience, the Company is bringing more than 50 members of its performing family to western Jamaica, including dancers, singers, musicians, technical personnel and production staff, ensuring patrons witness the full scale and artistry for which the NDTC has become internationally renowned.

 

For Mr. Simms, however, the significance of the occasion reflects the company's commitment to making the performing arts accessible to Jamaicans across the island.

 

"Not everyone can afford to come into Kingston. The entire Jamaica really needs to feel that their life, who they are, is also mirrored in the NDTC. It is Jamaica's company, and so everybody should have an opportunity to experience the company,” he says.

 

That philosophy will be reflected in a programme designed to take audiences on a journey through Jamaica's history, traditions and contemporary artistic expression.

 

Among the featured works is ‘Tribute to Cliff’, first choreographed in 1974 as a celebration of reggae icon Jimmy Cliff. Mr. Simms notes that the production has taken on even deeper significance following the entertainer's recent passing, making this year's performance especially poignant.

 

Patrons will also experience ‘Gerrehbenta’, one of the NDTC's most enduring audience favourites, showcasing the creative brilliance of the late Professor Rex Nettleford and renowned musician Marjorie Whylie. The work has become synonymous
with the company's celebration of Jamaica's rich folk heritage and musical traditions.

 

Adding a contemporary dimension to the evening is ‘Unscathed’, an abstract work exploring resilience through movement and emotion rather than literal storytelling.

 

Mr. Simms describes the piece as one that begins with quiet reflection before building towards a powerful crescendo of controlled exuberance.

 

The programme also includes ‘Bloom: On Earth as it is in Heaven’, which draws on the vibrant sounds of the African diaspora and the American South in a joyful celebration of life and renewal, and ‘Ash’, an imaginative contemporary work in which dancers personify the movement of smoke through expressive choreography.

 

Audiences will also be treated to a moving solo choreographed by NDTC alumnus Tony Wilson, portraying the grief of National Hero Paul Bogle's wife following his execution, as well as musical selections performed by the NDTC Singers.

 

Mr. Simms says careful thought went into selecting each piece to ensure that every patron leaves with a memorable experience.

 

"We want to present an eclectic programme. We want to ensure that everyone who comes to the show leaves liking something,” he tells JIS News.

 

He further notes that while some patrons are drawn to the company's timeless classics, others appreciate contemporary choreography, live music, theatrical storytelling or elaborate costumes.

 

"We're thinking about the entire family. There is something in the show for everybody," he notes.

 

The event, which is being held in partnership with the Montego Bay-based First Dance Studios, will also serve as a benefit for the dance school, which sustained significant damage during Hurricane Melissa.

 

Co-Founder and Artistic Director of First Dance Studios, Sherri-Lee Smith, tells JIS News that co-hosting the NDTC's season finale is both a tremendous honour and a significant boost for the region's creative community.

 

"It is absolutely a huge deal. We are thrilled. We're excited at the prospect," she says.

 

Ms. Smith notes that proceeds from the gala will not only support First Dance Studios but will also benefit other creatives across the region through a collaborative process involving the St. James Municipal Corporation.

 

For her, the NDTC production carries deep personal significance.

 

Like many Jamaicans outside the corporate area, she grew up watching televised highlights of the NDTC's annual performances before eventually making the trip to Kingston each year to experience the productions live.

 

"As children, my sister and I used to watch the highlights as well on TV," she recalls.

 

"As soon as we became old enough to travel ourselves into Kingston and experience the show, it's been no looking back since then,” she said, adding that western Jamaicans are in for an unforgettable experience.

 

"Experiencing [the show] live is completely different from watching the highlights," she shares.

 

Mr. Simms hopes the performance will inspire audiences long after the final curtain falls.

 

Reflecting on the company's decision to stage the production in Montego Bay, he says he wants patrons to leave not only entertained but encouraged.

 

"I want them to leave with a great sense of hope for the future. Hurricane Melissa is not the end of your story. It's a fresh beginning, a new opportunity," he says.

 

He adds that he hopes the evening inspires Jamaicans to work together to rebuild their communities, "because when we work together, great things are achieved”.

 

Tickets for the benefit gala are available in three categories – VVIP for $15,000; VIP for $10,000; and General Admission for $6,500. Online ticket sales will be announced through the First Dance Studios and NDTC social media platforms once
arrangements with the ticketing provider are finalised.

By Serena Grant