Department of Culture Celebrates Youth Talent at “Ripsaw in the Park: Battle of the Bands – Primary School Edition”
The Department of Culture successfully hosted its “Ripsaw in the Park: Battle of the Bands – Primary School Edition” on Friday, 16 October 2026, at the Kew Town Community Park, Providenciales, as part of its National Heritage Month celebrations under the theme “Rooted in Culture, United by Progress.”
The event brought together talented primary school students from across the Turks and Caicos Islands for an exciting showcase of Ripsaw music and Masses, two important expressions of our country's cultural heritage.
Participating schools included Eliza Simons Primary School of Grand Turk, Adelaide Oemler Primary School of North Caicos, Enid Capron Primary School of Five Cays, Providenciales, and Thelma Lightbourne Primary School of Long Bay, Providenciales.
Each school delivered an energetic presentation, showcasing the enthusiasm, creativity and talent of young cultural practitioners. More importantly, the performances demonstrated the work being done within schools to keep the traditions of Ripsaw music and Masses alive and relevant among younger generations.
Following the competition, Eliza Simons Primary School emerged as the first-place winner, with Enid Capron Primary School securing second place and Adelaide Oemler Primary School placing third.
While the event had a competitive element, the Department of Culture recognises all participating schools, teachers and students for their dedication to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Department of Culture also extends sincere appreciation to its sponsors, Got U Covered, Experience TCI, New Generation Sound and Caribbean Cruisin, whose support contributed to the staging of the event.
Ripsaw in the Park reinforced the Department's continued commitment to creating opportunities for young people to experience, practise and celebrate the traditions that form part of the national identity of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Through initiatives such as the Battle of the Bands – Primary School Edition, the Department aims to encourage schools and communities to continue teaching and showcasing traditional cultural expressions, ensuring they remain vibrant for generations to come.
The Department of Culture congratulates Eliza Simons Primary School, Enid Capron Primary School and Adelaide Oemler Primary School on their placements and commends Thelma Lightbourne Primary School and all participating students and teachers for contributing to a memorable celebration of Turks and Caicos culture.
Rooted in Culture, United by Progress.
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