This year the Caribbean dance course took Muraldo D.C and 10 students to the island of Carriacou for the first of our two weeks, and what a beautiful place Carriacou turned out to be. With only 6000 inhabitants we really felt like a part of the community in no time at all, especially at Silver Beach hotel where we were looked after perfectly.

Each morning the students took part in three classes taught by Caroline and myself with a view of Silver beach as our backdrop serving as a constant reminder that we were truly in the Caribbean.

During our stay in Carriacou we had the opportunity to tour the island seeing sites such as Windward, Mabouya Island, and Petite Martinique.  One evening was spent enjoying live steel pan music and tasting the local dishes.

We also had a visit from the local press (Grenada Informer) who had heard about Muraldo D. C’s work on the island and came to interview Caroline for an article as well as the radio station.

The students performed some of the work they had done at the end of the week followed by a Muraldo D.C performance held in the hotel, we invited various people that we had met on the island both locals and other tourists. This was greatly enjoyed by all that attended and performed.

The second week was spent on the neighbouring island of Grenada; again the students took part in 3 classes a day followed by various visits including to Westerhall Rum Distillery, the Herb and spice gardens, and historical sites like Carib’s Leap and Leapers Hill.  More adventurous outings included the rainforest and Market square where we experienced the buzz and atmosphere of Grenada.

We had the privilege of visiting surrounding islands like Sandy Island where we were able to relax in the picturesque surroundings (where many an advertisement has been shot).  We swam in the sea known for its beautiful coral reef, not to mention practising quadrilles and some of the other dances learnt in the two weeks in the sea (which added a new and challenging aspect to these pieces).

This final week again culminated in a performance at the Grand View Inn Hotel at the poolside creating a lovely atmosphere and platform for all of the hard work which had taken place in the two weeks.

It was such a privilege to experience both of these islands during this time and we were sorry to leave but felt we had had the richest and fullest experience that surpassed our imagination.

Tamara Lewis
(Ex-Muraldo D.C. Member)