Insight into Calabash International Literary Festival: A Peek at Jamaica's Celebrated Cultural Gathering
In a world where artificial intelligence reigns supreme, there's an oasis of reality known as Calabash. This isn't your ordinary literary soiree; it's a biennial pilgrimage for literature enthusiasts, who will brave planes, trains, and automobiles to reach a secluded fishing village in Jamaica. It's not called a festival—it's a rallying cry for literary fanatics across the globe.
Since its genesis in 2001, Calabash has showcased literary titans such as Salman Rushdie, Jamaica Kincaid, and Colson Whitehead. Remarkably, these stars eschew their usual hefty speaker fees, simply thrilled to grace the hallowed grounds of Calabash. The setting is nothing short of idyllic: Jakes at Treasure Beach, a charming cluster of eccentric cottages nestled amidst six rocky, beachfront acres. The sea, the ever-present soundtrack, transforms visitors into mere backdrops in a breathtaking dance between sea and land.
But there's something more to Calabash than the sum of its parts. In an era plagued by digital distractions, Calabash harkens back to a time when analogue was king. Yet, it's infused with a forward-thinking energy that propels it into the future. It's a dance with reggae rhythms, moving like the windswept palm trees that line Treasure Beach. Despite its organized precision, there's an insouciant grace that belies the calculated steps hidden beneath.
This brave new world demands a village to bring it to life, and the tight-knit Treasure Beach community is the heart of that magical experience. But it's the powerhouse trio—Justine Henzell, Kwame Dawes, and Jason Henzell—who meticulously orchestrate the carefully calculated choreography of Calabash.
Justine Henzell, Co-Founder and Producer of Calabash
Justine pulls the strings behind the scenes at Calabash. So, what's the secret sauce to this enchanting concoction? "Fill an exquisite destination with fascinating people, let them listen to diverse points of view eloquently expressed, feed them scrumptious food, and let them dance to the rhythm of reggae," she explains.
Reflecting on her years at Calabash, Justine recounts the challenges—such as filling the void left by the unexpected absence of Michael Ondaatje—and the triumphs, like the profound conversation between Marlon James and Paul Holdengraber. The echoes of Sheryl Lee Ralph's soulfulvoice still resonate weeks later, reminding us of the power of music and words. The sight of Jamaica's Prime Minister gracing the Calabash stage was another defining moment.
Justine paints a vivid picture of Calabash's future. "I hope Calabash will look the same in 20 years," she says, her eyes twinkling with anticipation. "The beach, the flowers, the audience—diverse and mesmerized by the magic unfolding before their eyes." Justine and her partner, Kwame Dawes, will be there, watching from their strategically placed chairs, lost in laughter as they reminisce about the memories that have shaped Calabash over the years.
Kwame Dawes, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Calabash
Kwame is the maestro who conducts the literary symphony at Calabash. So, how does he select the perfect lineup of writers each year? "We rely on recommendations and pay close attention to what's happening in the literary world," Kwame reveals. "We prioritize new works and aim to create diverse, inclusive discussions that capture the spirit of Calabash."
Reflecting on the festival's history, Kwame is moved by the generosity of the audience and the transformative power of the Calabash vibe. "This audience is attentive, informed, and open-hearted," he says, a twinge of emotion in his voice. "It's incredible to watch them listen and engage with the authors."
Looking ahead, Kwame sees a future where Calabash remains free, prioritizes a Jamaican audience, and embraces its African roots. But he also acknowledges that the festival may need to evolve to meet the needs of the country, with lessons learned from each staging now being used to shape the festival's legacy.
Jason Henzell, Chairman of Jakes Hotel
It's hard to imagine Calabash taking place anywhere other than Jakes Hotel. So, why is Treasure Beach the perfect stage for this literary dream? "Treasure Beach grew with Calabash, just as Calabash grew with Jakes," explains Jason Henzell, chairman of Jakes Hotel. "The symbiotic relationship between Calabash, Jakes, and Treasure Beach is what makes this festival so magical."
After Hurricane Beryl, the community rallied together to help rebuild, proving that the community tourism model works in good times and bad. And with the second staging of the Food, Rum & Reggae Festival on the horizon, Treasure Beach is ready to welcome guests once again.
The Calabash International Literary Festival is more than just a meeting of minds—it's a celebration of human spirit, a testament to the power of literature, and a labour of love for those involved. So, mark your calendars and set your sights on Treasure Beach, because Calabash is not just a festival—it's a place, a verb, a vibe, and an experience that transcends the ordinary and captures the essence of Jamaica.
- Justine Henzell, Co-Founder and Producer of Calabash, suggests that the key to the festival's success lies in assembling an extraordinary location, intriguing people, diverse perspectives, delicious food, and the rhythm of reggae music.
- The idyllic town of Treasure Beach, awash with the scent of flowers, serves as the perfect backdrop for Calabash, blending seamlessly with the eclectic fashion and beautiful houses that appeal to the lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden enthusiasts.
- Jason Henzell, chairman of Jakes Hotel, acknowledges that Treasure Beach and Calabash have grown symbiotically over the years, with the community's resilience demonstrated through events such as the Food, Rum & Reggae Festival, making it the perfect travel destination for a unique and unforgettable experience.
