The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has officially launched the State Insurance Company Limited Panorama 2026, marking the occasion with a $165,000 cheque presentation to the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association. According to Antigua News Room, the launch followed the successful staging of Pan in the City, which transformed Redcliffe Street into a vibrant celebration of steelpan, culture, and community.
The $165,000 payment forms part of a three-year agreement between the Festivals Commission and the Pan Association, now in its final year. The presentation signals both the Commission's continued commitment to the nation's steelband movement and the start of what organisers describe as an exciting Panorama season.
Minister of Sports and Creative Industries, Hon. Dwayne George, praised title sponsor State Insurance Company Limited for its longstanding support. "I extend sincere thanks to State Insurance Company Ltd., one of Antigua Carnival's key corporate partners. Their support over the years has gone beyond sponsoring an event; it has been an investment in our people, our communities, and our culture," he said.
Minister George also highlighted the significance of the nine steel bands currently representing communities across the nation, and outlined his ambitions for the movement's growth. "Today, we celebrate the power of steelpan through nine steel bands representing nine communities across our nation. Every pan yard is a space where talent is nurtured, friendships are formed, and our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. My vision is for that number to grow. I look forward to the day when we have ten steel bands, including one from St. Mary's. Mark my words."
Chief Executive Officer of State Insurance Company Limited, Aarion Nicholas, echoed that sentiment, affirming the company's pride in its continued partnership. "Panorama is more than a competition; it is a celebration of discipline, creativity, community pride, and cultural excellence. We are proud to continue our partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission and the Antigua and Barbuda Pan Association as we help preserve and grow the steelpan movement for future generations," Nicholas said.
Pan in the City featured performances from all nine participating steel bands, filling the streets of St. John's with the sounds of steelpan ahead of the highly anticipated finals. The ABFC extended appreciation to State Insurance Company Limited, the Pan Association, participating steelbands, vendors, sponsors, and patrons for contributing to the event's success.
The State Insurance Company Limited Panorama Finals are scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Carnival City, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $40.00 and are available at official ticket outlets islandwide.
