-Minister Ramson says gov’t will continue to invest in the arts

ENTHUSIASTIC secondary school students with a passion for the arts had the opportunity to both learn intricate acting skills and showcase their understanding of performing at a Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s young actors workshop held at the National Cultural Centre on Sunday.

Students from schools around the country who attended this first-of-its-kind workshop, had the chance to meet internationally acclaimed actor Silvio Simac, who has appeared alongside actors like Keanu Reeves and Jet Li.

The highlight of the event was the show put on by the students, who took to the stage to display their passion, charisma, and talent.

The Director of National Events at the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Andrew Tyndall, opened the workshop, emphasising that it had been a long-time goal of the ministry.

“We’ve done a lot of work in dance, music, and visual arts. We’ve worked in theatre and drama, but we haven’t been able to have an actor’s workshop until now. Having a Hollywood actor here is exceptional, and this is something we must expose to the young people of Guyana,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport Charles Ramson, in his address said the workshop was an opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience.

He stated that the knowledge gained from initiatives such as these is pivotal in many ways.

“Most of us in Guyana don’t get that first-hand information, which means we don’t have a realistic view or the information necessary to help us chart our own direction. As young people, the decisions you make to help chart your career are very important.”

Minister Ramson also emphasised that the performing-arts sector is growing in Guyana. He highlighted institutions such as the Guyana School of Theatre Arts and Drama, noting, “Preparation is very important for anything you do in life, which is about practice. We’re making this investment in you because we believe in your potential.”

Accomplished martial artist and actor Max Massiah shared sentiments about his friend and fellow actor Simac. He stated, “Silvio was born in Croatia and has been living in London, where he started his career and got into acting. In a short space of time, Silvio has moved from zero to hero in terms of his accomplishments.”

Silvio Simac spoke to the young aspiring actors, expressing his belief in the potential of Guyanese actors. He said: “Thank you ever so much for such a warm welcome. It’s been a very good experience coming to Guyana for the first time. I want to thank you all for gathering here today and giving me the opportunity to share my experiences and inspire and motivate some of you along your journeys. It’s an honour for me to stand here before you, not just as an actor and martial artist, but as someone who genuinely and deeply believes in Guyana’s potential.”

He encouraged the students to take small steps towards their goals, stating, “Make small changes that will contribute to long-term success. Always remind yourself, this is not a race. Starting something new, getting the ball rolling, and initiating momentum always requires [sic] the greatest effort.”

Simac also advised the students to seek out opportunities and take setbacks in stride. “Each setback is not a failure, it’s a lesson; each struggle is not a roadblock, it’s a work in progress.”

He further added that there will be challenges in the performing arts and the key is to stay committed. “It’s easy to stay committed when everything is going smoothly, but true character is revealed when faced with adversity.”

Moreover, he urged the students to call on their emotions in their acting endeavours and throughout challenging times “Think back to the moment when you first set your goals. Remember the excitement, motivation, and sense of purpose you felt at the time. That initial spark will sustain you through tough times and challenge you to be better. When you face obstacles, remind yourself why you started in the first place.”

To ensure the workshop was a comprehensive learning experience, the sessions focused on different aspects of acting. The students participated in improvisation exercises, learned about stage presence and received feedback on their performances. The interactive nature of the workshop allowed the students to engage directly with Simac, who provided personalised advice and encouragement.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport plans to continue such workshops, seeing the value they bring to the development of young talent in Guyana.

The success of this first workshop has set a positive precedent, and the ministry is already looking forward to organising similar events which can provide opportunities for young people across the country.