JCDC clarifies Festival of the Performing Arts submission process

Friday, January 30, marks the final day for new entries into the 2026 National Festival of the Performing Arts. That’s the word from the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC).

However, persons who would have submitted their entries prior to the January 30 deadline, will have a further 13 days to fine-tune their performance piece and get the video recording done to their satisfaction. Come January 31, all entries will be designated as “In Progress”, allowing entrants to upload the video and then do their final submission.

Executive Director of the JCDC, Lenford Salmon, said the Commission wants to ensure that everyone interested in entering the competition clearly understands how the process will work as it moves into its final submission phase. The public is also being reminded that auditions this year will take place virtually (assessment of video submissions) as happened during the pandemic.

“The online entry platform, jcdc.awardsplatform.com, will stop accepting entries at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 30, and no new entries will be accepted after that time. From Saturday, January 31 to Friday, February 13, entries that were already submitted will return to ‘In Progress’ status, allowing participants to edit their entries and upload their performance videos,” Salmon said.

He further emphasised the importance of completing all requirements by the final deadline.

“When the clock strikes 11:59 p.m. on Friday, February 13, only entries that are fully completed, including the uploaded performance video, will be marked ‘Submitted’ and move forward to adjudication. We are encouraging everyone to double-check their entry and ensure that all required information and videos are uploaded before that deadline.”

He added that the approach is designed to balance flexibility with fairness, particularly in light of recent challenges.

“This process gives participants the same preparation time they would normally have, while ensuring that everyone is assessed on a level playing field, particularly those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Our aim is to support participants and help them put their best work forward.”

This clarification applies only to the Festival of the Performing Arts, which includes Dance and Deaf Dance, Drama and Theatre Arts, Traditional Folk Forms, Music, and Speech.