Big Comeback: Fond Dor Jazz Returns with Packed Crowd and Strong Lineup
Fond Dor Jazz has made a strong and symbolic return to Saint Lucia’s cultural calendar, drawing renewed energy and community support, with Jamaican reggae singer Duane Stephenson headlining the revived event. The community-based showcase, once a staple of the island’s jazz season, had fallen off the lineup for several years. Its 2026 return, however, signaled […] The post Big Comeback: Fond Dor Jazz Returns with Packed Crowd and Strong Lineup appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
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Fond Dor Jazz has made a strong and symbolic return to Saint Lucia’s cultural calendar, drawing renewed energy and community support, with Jamaican reggae singer Duane Stephenson headlining the revived event.
The community-based showcase, once a staple of the island’s jazz season, had fallen off the lineup for several years. Its 2026 return, however, signaled a major comeback, with organizers mounting a full scale production despite a highly competitive festival landscape.
Chairman of the Fond Dor Jazz Committee, Cornelius Edmond, said the event’s revival represents more than just entertainment, describing it as a critical driver of community development.
“Fond Dor Jazz is back after a hiatus. It had built such a strong name over the years, and in 2026 we are proud to return with a full lineup and renewed community energy,” Edmond stated.
He explained that since its early beginnings in 2001, the event had grown steadily, benefiting from infrastructure improvements and major performances before facing a prolonged interruption due to shifting circumstances and broader challenges within the national events calendar.
Despite a phased return in recent years, Edmond noted that this year’s staging represents the most complete revival to date, even as organizers contend with increased competition from more than a dozen other jazz-related events across the island.
Corporate backing has also been central to the event’s return, with 1st National Bank reaffirming its support for cultural development initiatives.
Manager and Director of the bank, Sandra Fontinelle, emphasized the institution’s commitment to national growth through strategic investment in community events.
“We are very supportive of national development, and events like Fond Dor Jazz provide an important platform to showcase talent and strengthen communities,” Fontinelle said.
Patrons attending the event also shared overwhelmingly positive feedback on the festival’s return.
One patron described the experience simply as “an amazing event,” while another said, “I’m happy it’s back. It’s magnificent, and I hope it continues because it’s a good night tonight.”
Richfond resident Skeeta John said the revival was warmly received by the wider community.
“The community was excited to know that Fond Dor Jazz finally returned. Everybody is enjoying themselves, a lot of families came out, the entrance fee wasn’t bad for a community event, and the lineup was amazing, with acts such as Boo Hinkson. Everything was fantastic, everybody had a great time, and hopefully next year they will return Kassav’ to Fond Dor Jazz,” John said.
Organizers say the long-term vision for Fond Dor extends beyond a single annual event, with plans being explored to develop the area into a year-round eco-cultural destination, integrating music, tourism and environmental preservation.
For now, the successful return of Fond Dor Jazz, coupled with a headline performance from Duane Stephenson and strong community turnout, has reaffirmed the event’s place as a key component of Saint Lucia’s expanding cultural and entertainment landscape.
The post Big Comeback: Fond Dor Jazz Returns with Packed Crowd and Strong Lineup appeared first on Saint Lucia Daily Post.
