DCL Hosts Community Celebration at New Bahamian Island Destination in Eleuthera
ELEUTHERA, The Bahamas (May 30, 2024) – Earlier today, Disney Cruise Line hosted Bahamian officials and community members for a special celebration to commemorate the opening of its new island destination in Eleuthera, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Disney Lookout Cay reflects the ongoing collaboration between Disney and Bahamian artists, historians and cultural experts who helped bring this one-of-a-kind tropical retreat to life. The destination immerses guests in the spirit and culture of The Bahamas through its artistry, architecture, experiences, Bahamian-inspired entertainment performed by local talent, nature trails and beaches that offer a window into the breathtaking natural beauty of The Bahamas.
“We are excited to celebrate the opening of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point with the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “The making of our second island destination in The Bahamas has been an incredible collaboration. We’re so proud of the relationships that we’ve built here in the community and the unique story that we’re telling together. We look forward to welcoming our first guests to the island, where they will experience the spirit of The Bahamas with a special touch of Disney magic.”
Bahamian officials, community members and Disney cast members gathered at the heart of Disney Lookout Cay in front of the brightly colored, Junkanoo-inspired Goombay Cultural Center for the celebration. The program featured remarks from members of the Disney Cruise Line leadership team, as well as Prime Minister Hon. Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation Hon. I. Chester Cooper and Minister of Works and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera Hon. Clay Sweeting.
Guests were also treated to a performance by a specially curated group of local Junkanoos featuring the winning teams of this year’s Junior Junkanoo competition from Tarpum Bay Primary and Preston H. Albury High School in Eleuthera.
“The inclusion of culture at Disney’s new destination in Eleuthera is exemplary,” said Prime Minister Philip Davis. “From its thoughtful design to entertainment featuring Junkanoos, people who visit will experience The Bahamas and our special culture in a new way.”
The Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, said this new destination reinforces the importance of building strong partnerships to strengthen the future of tourism in The Bahamas. “Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is a prime example of the investment boom in The Bahamas. Disney continues to be a gold standard community partner in its support of conservation, culture, economic and community growth,” added Cooper.
The development of Disney Lookout Cay created hundreds of construction-related roles for Bahamians, more than tripling the number of jobs Disney committed to before the project began. The destination will open with an all-Bahamian leadership team and has created nearly 200 high-quality roles for Bahamians, exceeding the original commitment in Disney’s Heads of Agreement. In addition to benefits, these roles offer opportunities for training and advancement. Bahamian Inspiration and Influence The rich culture of The Bahamas is prevalent throughout Disney Lookout Cay, from vibrant music and festive entertainment to architecture reflecting Bahamian nature and artistry. Disney collaborated with local artists and business owners to create experiences and entertainment at Disney Lookout Cay.
“Disney’s collaboration with Bahamian creative communities resulted in a truly unique cultural experience in South Eleuthera,” said Antonius Roberts, renowned Bahamian artist. “Visitors and locals alike will be enlightened and entertained by the powerful stories shared by local musicians, artisans and storytellers. I am proud to have played a part in bringing this vision to life and believe that Disney’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding and appreciation will leave a lasting impact on all who visit Disney Lookout Cay.”
“At Disney Lookout Cay, the inclusion of local artists promotes the diversity of our culture and allows guests to experience this diversity through a different lens,” said Eleuthera artist Kevin Cooper. “Spotlighting local artists and talent for guests from around the world is paramount. These artists portray the vibe of the island and The Bahamas at large. Guests will be entrenched in our culture.”
Beautiful permanent art installations by Bahamian artists will be on display throughout Disney Lookout Cay, including:
A large sculpture created by Antonius Roberts located near the tram stop that was constructed from a fallen tree that was found on Lighthouse Point property.
Paintings by Kevin Cooper featured in the Goombay Cultural Center and cabanas.
Nature-inspired sculptures created by ceramicist Imogen Walkine featured above the destination’s bars, along with Junkanoo-inspired tilework in locations such as the Goombay Cultural Center.
Plaited fish, pineapples, conch and Junkanoo headdresses by Philip and Michelle Kemp in the Goombay Cultural Center and cabanas.
Wood carvings on exterior doors inspired by Andret John’s original designs.
Original murals painted by Dorman Stubbs that have been replicated and are featured on many of buildings.
Land- and sea-inspired art by interdisciplinary artist Kishan Munroe featured in the dining pavilions.
Sculptures by mixed media artist and painter Edrin Symonette found throughout the destination.
Creations by local Bahamian artists and a full line of Disney merchandise unique to Disney Lookout Cay will also be available at merchandise locations throughout the island destination. At Disney T’ings, guests will find a new, uniquely Bahamian clothing line designed by acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer, Theodore Elyett. The clothing line features bright colors and Junkanoo-inspired patterns and is exclusively available at Disney Lookout Cay. Elyett also designed new Bahamian-inspired looks for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends to wear at Disney Lookout Cay. At Treasures of Eleuthera, guests may also purchase locally made art, ceramics, jewelry and other unique keepsakes, created by Bahamian artists.
Repost from lighthousepointbahamas.com
