“ I, Hyarima” the play written and directed by Poet Laureate of Port of Spain, Eintou Pearl Springer in honour of Hyarima, Warrior chief will be one of the highlights of a week of activities celebrating Amerindian Heritage Day this year. The week-long event begins on October 14th, the official day which celebrates our Amerindian Heritage, with a 5am ancestral ceremony at Caura, home to many of our Amerindian ancestors.
The day October 14th commemorates the sacking of St. Joseph the first capital of Trinidad, by Hyarima and his warriors; Hyarima may be regarded as the first national hero and freedom fighter in our history.
Delegations of First Peoples from eight nations around the world will be here for this event, as we also celebrate the chairmanship of the regional Council of Indigenous People (COIP) by Trinidad and Tobago. This is an honour for our country as it will help to bring attention to the needs of our own indigenous community and give Trinidad and Tobago an opportunity to be consistent with the United Nations charter on the recognition and treatment of indigenous people.
The lead role of Hyarima is played by our veteran actor Errol “Blood” Roberts and choreography is by Allan Balfour, internationally renowned dancer. An exciting and unique aspect of the production will be the inclusion of the visiting delegations in the performance of the play.
The play takes place on October 19th at Lord Harris Square, Arima and all are invited to attend. The full programme of events is attached.
Members of the public interested in additional information may contact the Carib Center 667-0210, and the National Trust 624-6477 or 623-5941.
