A TRIBUTE TO NOEL DEXTER: ARDENNE'S HOMECOMING 'VOICES CONCERT 2023'

I find myself at a loss for words, swept away by the sheer brilliance that unfolded before my eyes. Last night's concert was a breathtaking spectacle of talent, a true feast for the senses. Ardenne High School, the custodian of creativity, has proven yet again that it stands as the epicentre of the country's artistic wealth, nurturing a generation of exceptional performers under the legacy of the late great Noel Dexter.

As I stepped into the auditorium of Olson Hall, the air crackled with anticipation and excitement. The Ardenne Alumni Association's homecoming event, the Voices concert, unfolded like a magical tapestry, weaving together the threads of extraordinary talent. It was as if the very essence of artistry had taken shape on that stage.

Reuniting with faces from my past was an emotional journey. As I greeted old friends, time melted away, and we found ourselves transported back to our youthful days. Warm embraces, joyous exclamations, and heartfelt laughter filled the air, defying the constraints of time and distance. It was a celebration of not only the concert but also the enduring bonds that Ardenne High had forged among its alumni.

Christopher Johnny Daley, the charismatic emcee, captivated the audience with his wit and charm. His effortless command of the program added a touch of lightheartedness and camaraderie to the evening. The concert reached its crescendo with a fitting finale—the stirring strains of our beloved school song, "Ye Valient You Arise." Tears welled in my eyes as I joined in the chorus, feeling the weight of nostalgia and pride in equal measure.

Throughout the night, I marveled at the extraordinary talents on display. From soul-stirring performances by gifted singers to awe-inspiring theatrical presentations, the stage came alive with an energy that was palpable. The rhythmic beats of drums reverberated through the hall, creating an infectious pulse that moved the audience to their core. The melodic notes of steelpan music transported us to a place where time stood still, and the world was painted in vibrant hues of Caribbean rhythm.

Ardenne High, with its unwavering commitment to excellence, has become a breeding ground for world-class performers. The concert was a testament to the school's dedication to honing the skills and nurturing the dreams of its students. It was a dazzling showcase of creativity, a testament to the transformative power of the arts.

Behind the scenes, a team of tireless organizers worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect. Michael Leslie, Grace Gordon, Florence Holness-Derby, and the Philbert Solomon Committee deserve our heartfelt applause for orchestrating a night that will be etched in our memories for years to come.

As I reflect on my time at Ardenne, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride. Being part of this illustrious institution has shaped not only my personal journey but also the cultural landscape of our island. I carry the legacy of Ardenne within me, a shining beacon of creativity and artistry, even in the autumn of my years.

Last night's concert was a testament to the power of music, the magic of theater, and the unbreakable bonds forged at Ardenne High. It was a symphony of talent, a kaleidoscope of colors, and a celebration of the human spirit. The voices that filled the hall echoed far beyond the confines of the stage, resonating with hope, inspiration, and the enduring legacy of Noel Dexter.

Ardene Alumni Choir

Lois Grant

L - R: Vinette Audrey Laidlaw, Benita Morrison and Lois Grant

The audience in Olson Hall

Writer: Mrs. Lois Grant - JP, MA, BA. (Hons) Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London. 

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