Jason Russell pushes for cultural tourism boost

WESTERN BUREAU:

“Why import talent when Jamaica has the best right here?”

This was the rallying cry of Jason Russell, the newly elected president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as he spoke at the launch of First Dance Studios’ 11th anniversary season on Wednesday.

The event, held at the S Club in Montego Bay, St James, provided the perfect platform for Russell to share his vision of stronger partnerships between Jamaica’s tourism industry and local cultural institutions.

Russell emphasised the vital role of Jamaican culture in enhancing the island’s tourism appeal and vowed to advocate for more opportunities for local entertainers – including students from institutions like First Dance Studios – in the hospitality sector.

“The Chamber of Commerce must serve as the bridge between our local talent and the tourism industry,” Russell said.

“We shouldn’t be importing Spanish dancers for our hotels when we have homegrown talent that can create authentic, vibrant experiences.”

Russell argued that Jamaican dancers and entertainers should regularly perform at hotels across the island and be compensated fairly for their contributions. He praised First Dance Studios for not only preserving Jamaican culture but also preparing young performers to become cultural ambassadors.

“Our hospitality sector thrives on entertainment that sets us apart in a competitive market,” he said. “There’s no better way to do that than by showcasing genuine Jamaican talent.”

Russell pointed to Jamaica’s global reputation for its music and culture, noting that tourists expect reggae, dancehall, and immersive cultural experiences when they visit.

Addressing concerns about the professionalism of local talent, Russell – who also operates the popular Pier One on the Waterfront – dismissed the notion that international performers are more reliable.

“At Pier One, we host shows every Wednesday with local performers who consistently show up, deliver, and uphold professional standards. The issue isn’t professionalism – it’s opportunity,” he stated. “The Chamber’s role is to open doors for our talent.”

He also highlighted the need for formal training and professional development within the cultural sector. While government initiatives often focus on hospitality training, Russell noted a gap in structured programmes for entertainers.

“We need targeted programmes to prepare our entertainers for the demands of the tourism industry,” he said. “The Chamber can collaborate with institutions like First Dance Studios to bridge this gap.”

‘OUR GREATEST ASSET’

Russell reaffirmed his commitment to building lasting connections between Montego Bay’s cultural and tourism sectors.

“Our culture is our greatest asset. By embedding it more deeply into our tourism product, we not only enhance the visitor experience but also create meaningful opportunities for local talent,” he said.

“The Chamber of Commerce is ready to lead this initiative, and I believe we can achieve this vision together.”

As First Dance Studios celebrates 11 years of nurturing talent, Russell’s call for deeper cultural partnerships promises a bright future – one where local entertainers take center stage, adding unparalleled value to Jamaica’s tourism industry.

The upcoming season, themed ‘We Are the World’, will be held at the historic Rose Hall Great House on Sunday, April 13, according to co-founder Jody-Marie Smith.

“We have some of the most talented individuals, from children to adults, not just in Jamaica but particularly in the west,” Smith said.

“Patrons can expect to see the exceptional talent we often talk about on full display.”

The 90-minute production will feature performances from First Dance as well as other creatives from the western region.

Last year’s 10th-anniversary show, themed ‘Coalescence’, drew hundreds of patrons and was widely praised.

“We are confident this year’s event will surpass expectations,” Smith added.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com