By JADE RUSSELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

AT 55, Portia Grant thought her lifelong dream of becoming a trained entertainer had passed her by as motherhood and the demands of providing for her family had taken centre stage. Yesterday, she stood proudly in a CAPAS shirt as one of 52 students welcomed into the first class of The Bahamas Creative and Performing Arts School (CAPAS).

“I would say it’s never too late, just you know, because it’s inspiration, it’s a motivation. It helps others to come on,” Ms Grant said when asked what advice she had for those who feel their dreams are out of reach.

She said she had taken dance and performance classes since childhood, but never imagined a creative school would be established in The Bahamas. Now, she hopes to use her craft to inspire and motivate others.

The launch of CAPAS was described as a turning point for the country’s creative economy. The school is operating from the former Phil’s Food Services property on Gladstone Road, which has three buildings. For now, classes are being held in the northeastern section of the site, behind the Small Business Development Centre, while renovations continue on the main building that will house the full campus and studios.

Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin called the opening “Freedom Day”. She said the school gives space to those with creative passions, noting that while innovation and creativity are vital to the economy, the industry has long been neglected in The Bahamas. She added that when she retires, she hopes to join CAPAS herself.

Project head Ian Poitier grew emotional as he finally welcomed students after a 12-year effort to establish the school.

“I don’t know how I’m feeling,” he said. “I stopped feeling a few days ago and now just very full.

“It’s only taken 12 years since I was first approached by the government and asked to put together a proposal for this. So, it’s been a long journey. I’m just so overwhelmed, really, by the students and the faculty and their trust and confidence in what we’re going to do.”

In its foundation year, CAPAS will focus on acting, dance, and singing. Students will also begin preparing for the school’s grand opening next year.

Mr Poitier said CAPAS will partner with the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) from January to offer courses in lighting, hair, and make-up.

Bahamians will attend tuition-free, while international students will pay fees. Mr Poitier said some students may still face financial challenges, and fundraising is underway to provide care packages, with donations already pledged by private supporters.