Odyssey, another journey in the life of the Portmore Dance Theatre Company (PDTC), was a well-orchestrated show.

PDTC, the winner of numerous national gold medals and trophies in dance, drama, and speech had its eighth season of dance at the YMCA auditorium, Hope Road, St Andrew, recently.

To loud cheers, the group, comprising a mixture of young, mature, and experienced dancers, told a story of Jamaica's rich culture through different forms of the performing arts. The pieces were well presented and the costumes a mix of colour and flamboyance.

defy the odds

Art Director Anthony Carson had this to say: "Too many people go through life waiting for things to happen instead of making them happen. As artistic director of the Portmore Dance Theatre Company, we have accomplished and defied the odds in making our eighth season of dance, Odyssey, a huge success. Moving the show from Portmore to Kingston raised a lot of eyebrows and criticism, but impossible is a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in a world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it."

He added: "PDTC would like to thank all the sponsors, technical crews, YMCA, and most of all our fans. Without you, the show would not have been completed. The ninth season will be a force. Looking forward to seeing you all there."

outside of Portmore

It is the first time that the group had its season outside of Portmore. The PDTC has grown, starting on the grounds of Bridgeport High, and then moving to the Portmore HEART Academy up until last year.

The PDTC believes the group should be commended for taking this bold step as its talent is not confined to the shores of Portmore, but includes people in the Corporate Area and Jamaica.

Carson took the opportunity to thank the sponsors, which included Torpedo Investments, Power 106 FM, Music 99 FM, and the Sign Centre.

"PDTC would like to thank all the sponsors, technical crews, YMCA, and most of all our fans. Without you, the show would not have been completed. The ninth season will be a force. Looking forward to seeing you all there."