Dear Diary,

I have been unfaithful to my one true love. Too many times I have allowed others to come between us. It started on March 7. I couldn't stay away; that would have asked too much of me.

I stood outside Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts, at the University of the West Indies, Mona, awaiting my turn. Lucky for me it didn't take long. I hurried inside and found a seat, third row left. Others were forced to make themselves comfortable in the aisles - the Jamaica Dance Umbrella showcase literally 'sold out'.

Neila Ebanks

The crowd's murmur stopped as New Orleans jazz rang out from the theatre's sound system cueing the opening dance, 'Katrina', choreographed by Rex Nettleford. The synchrony was such that I could hardly tell the dancers a part in each episode.

It was not difficult, however, to pick out two cheery, full-bodied females in the following piece, 'Anywhere But Here', by Sodanne Browne. Tiana Chung and Daynielle Levy commanded the audience to 'Stop and Stare', the One Republic song they utilised. The girls completed each move and lift with such strength and poise. Oh, how I longed to be up there with them.

The time came for one of my role models to grace the stage. Choreographer and dancer Neila Ebanks demonstrated that it was OK to bare it all in a performance. The programme, under the heading 'A Honour of Locks with Keys and Coupon to my Heart', read: "A stretch of the box, unlocking locks, de-labelled, de-fabled, skin under frocks defy the defining." I was captivated by the words and movements as I watched Ebanks and her dance partner become each other's shadows.

The last piece, choreographed by L'Antoinette Stines and performed by L'Acadco, caressed my soul and stimulated my senses. I sat on the edge of my seat, the corner of my eyes brimming with tears - each of Davian Grant's words shook me to the core. The last of which in 'Natural Black Side', 'chat 'bout', echoed throughout.

At first, I didn't even realise it was over. Finally, I rushed out of the theatre. I didn't say goodbye. I'll be back. Tonight was amazing ... until next time.

Other entries

Being a part of this event as a coordinator and a dance artiste/choreographer was a challenging, but nonetheless wonderful experience. I am a die-hard lover of the arts, in general, but to be able to host such a creative event that drew so many Jamaican artistes together has been simply phenomenal. We need more events like this and I am determined to build this showcase on an international scale. I thought the entire weekend was an absolute success.

I opened my mind to the performances. My favourite performer/choreographer was Neila Ebanks, of course. She mixed comedy and sensuality into her pieces. I could feel her passion for performing.

- Randy Robinson