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3 artists to be honored at Flame Tree festival
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Posted on Apr 07 2009
The Department of Community and Cultural Affairs will pay tribute and dedicate this year’s Flame Tree Arts Festival to three local artists who passed away recently.
Arts Council coordinator Lucille Ayuyu yesterday disclosed that a dedication ceremony during the festivities will honor master sand painter Albert Toves, coconut hand carver Danny Babauta, and local artist Tun Manet Dela Cruz from Tinian.
The three native talents passed away this year due to various illnesses.
Slated for April 23-26, the four-day cultural celebration is expected to attract thousands of community members and spectators from around the islands.
As of yesterday, 57 booth stations are confirmed ready for artists while 22 stations are for food vendors. Seven stations are also designated for live demonstrations and educational workshops throughout the festival.
Ayuyu said five more stations are still available.
Ayuyu, who is also the program coordinator for the festival, said four schools have confirmed their participation in the 28th Micronesian Float competition: Kagman Elementary School, San Vicente Elementary School, San Antonio Elehmentary School, and Ladera International School of Saipan.
Due to budget constraints, DCCA has shelved the booth competition this year. It earlier increased by $50 the registration fee for artists and food vendors. The move was made to sustain expenses throughout the festival.
The Flame Tree Arts Festival will officially open on April 23, a Thursday.
On Saturday, April 25, the Parade of Cultures and float competition will start at 9am. The venue will still be at the Susupe Civic Center.
Guests and off-island delegations will include seven from Palau, 10 from Tinian, and 10 from Rota.
Guam will be this year’s biggest delegation, with 115 individuals expected to take part in the festival.
DCCA is paying for the ground transportation and food of all festival delegates.
The annual Flame Tree Arts Festival is the biggest arts and crafts gathering in Micronesia, drawing thousands of spectators from all over the islands.
