Carousel of Expression, Talent, and Creativity 2025: A Great Success

ORANJESTAD - The Department of Culture of Aruba successfully hosted the 4th edition of "Carrousel of Expression, Talent, and Creativity," an artistic and multidisciplinary initiative executed in partnership with Buki di Pret, on Friday, August 15, 2025, during the school vacations. 

The activity provided an inspiring space for all children who wished to explore their talents and learn in a creative environment, while connecting and appreciating our heritage and cultural identity.

Central Theme: "The House is Well Built"

A slogan that invited participants to discover potential, express identity, and contribute to a bright future.

At the end of the workshop, the children presented a show especially for families and the audience present, with participation in different artistic disciplines:

  • Dancer: Madellene Kelly
  • Theatre: Joan Danies
  • Visual Art: Jo-Anne Kock
  • Singing and Music: Mrs. Maybelline Arends-Croes

All guided the participants in basic techniques until their final presentation.

Gratitude

We express our thanks to:

  • Sr. Freddy Montoya and Miss Eleen Rasmijn, project leader for the Aruba Department of Culture
  • Sr. Roland Helder of Masiduri Group and Mrs. Esmara Martis of the Department of Culture, Aruba
  • John F. Kennedy Education Center and all volunteers who gave constant support during the program

Special Production

During the workshop, the children worked on a production of Stichting Monumenten Fonds Aruba, which was part of Open Monumentendag 2025. The recording took place at IQ Music Productions, with arrangement and mastering by Maestro Ivan Quandus and accompaniment by Coro Tutti Fruti, directed by Maestro Arend-Croes.

A new musical theme, "E Cas," with original lyrics and melody commissioned by Mr. John Freddy Tobon Montoya of the Department of Culture, Aruba, served as inspiration for the presentation.

Cultural Participation

  • Dabaruida Dance Group
  • Rosea Cultural Foundation

2026 is a celebration of the first lustrum

Department of Culture Aruba announces that in 2026, the celebration of the first five years of Carousel of Expression, Talent and Creativity, with the central theme keiro around Aruba. This edition will extend its duration and promises an even broader and unforgettable cultural experience.