St. Lucian cultural icon dies at 87

Theresa Hall

CASTRIES, St. Lucia – The government of St. Lucia is mourning the death of cultural icon 87-year-old Theresa Hall who died late Thursday after a brief illness.

In a statement, the government described Hall as a “true pioneer of Culture,” adding that her “passion and commitment to culture, and dance in particular, spans decades and has marked her as one of St. Lucia’s premier cultural activists.

“She was an inspiration to many young persons who she mentored while teaching and promoting the various art forms. This cultural icon will be sorely missed,” the statement continued.

The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) in extending condolences said that the island had lost “a passionate and dedicated daughter” describing her also as “a devoted lover of St. Lucian culture – song, dance and traditional dress.”

The former school teacher whose contribution to national development included the organization of arts and cultural events such as the Primary School Quadrille Festival and the National Youth Pageant, received the island’s highest award, The Piton Gold Medal (SLPM) in 1995, and in 2007 was the recipient of the British Empire Medal (BEM).

In 1990, she formed the island’s premier dance group, The Helen Folk Dancers, and was also instrumental in establishing the first dance group at the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School.