New House of Culture opens in O.W.
The PUP manifesto promise to build ten thousand houses is a familiar political mantra, but a less well known commitment involves the establishment of Houses of Culture in every district. With Belize City and Benque Viejo already operating, today was Orange Walk’s turn to join the cultural revolution.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
Orange Walk’s House of Culture is situated in the Banquitas area of the town. The building which once served as a market has now become the hub of the district’s culture and creative arts.
Mark Espat, Minister of Culture
“Like the other Houses of Culture in Belize, this building was originally constructed with a different use in mind. Traders and farmers and butchers were to bring their products here to sell. That function after a significant investment, did not materialise to the extent and vision. The Deputy Prime Minister and his committee thought and achieved a radically different function for this building, ideally located for trading and farming cultural expression.”
Inside, you will be able to find information on Orange Walk’s history, including the civilization of the ancient Maya. However, present and future are also very much a part of the display. Just yesterday, Richard Holder had the task of touring the district and capturing on film the many faces of Orange Walkeños. The Banquitas House of Culture as well has also been designed to promote the work of local artist and musicians.
Alex Palacio, Committee Member, Banquitas House of Culture
“There are a lot of cultural groups in Orange Walk and actually there was nowhere where they could go, like a House of Culture, to do their cultural activities. As well, there are a lot of historical information about Orange Walk in that House of Culture and a lot artefacts that the people of Orange Walk provided, as well as other tour groups that provided for this House of Culture here. So it’s very important for the citizens and more important for the students.”
…And those students were specifically addressed by area representative, Johnny Briceño. Briceño told the young audience that the building is a gift to them that they must use wisely.
Johnny Briceño, Area Rep., Orange Walk Central
“This House of Culture will continue to play an important role especially to all the young students that are sitting in front of us. They are the ones who will determine the role that Banquitas is going to play in their lives. It has played an important role in our lives, now it is in your hands, you students who are here today, to ensure that this area continues to play a very important role in your lives.”
The House of Culture will officially open to the general public on Tuesday. From that day, it will be open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Jacqueline Woods for News Five.
Banquitas gets its name from the numerous benches that have traditionally been situated in the area.
