The Directorate of Art & Culture has announced rehearsal dates for cultural associations and organisations selected to participate in the Island Tourism Festival (ITF) 2025. According to the department, all groups that submitted applications and expressed willingness to perform at the festival are required to undergo mandatory rehearsals on December 15 and 16 at the Andaman Club, located opposite Netaji Stadium in Sri Vijaya Puram. The rehearsals will be held from 1000 hrs to 1600 hrs with a one-hour lunch break.
The directive requires all participating groups to present their complete programme before the Programme Selection Committee. The performances must match the details submitted in their applications, including a minimum duration of 30 minutes for dance items and 45 minutes to one hour for singing performances. The committee will use the rehearsals to evaluate the readiness, quality and suitability of the performances for inclusion in the festival’s schedule.
The Directorate has emphasised that attendance at the rehearsals is compulsory. Any group failing to participate will be withdrawn from the final programme lineup of ITF 2025. The announcement aims to ensure that all selected performers meet the standards and expectations associated with the festival, which is considered one of the key cultural highlights in the islands’ annual event calendar.
Officials noted that the rehearsal process plays a crucial role in finalising venues for the performances. The allocation of performance spaces across different ITF venues will be based on the presentations made during the rehearsals. This allows organisers to assess space requirements, technical needs and programme flow for each participating group, ensuring that the festival runs smoothly across multiple performance zones.
Cultural associations representing diverse art forms, including traditional dance, contemporary stage acts and musical performances, are expected to participate in the rehearsals. The department has reminded organisations that the rehearsal sessions serve not merely as formalities but as essential evaluation platforms that determine their final participation status. Groups are encouraged to come prepared with full costumes, music tracks and supporting arrangements required for a complete performance.
The Directorate’s announcement also highlights the importance of maintaining discipline and adherence to timing. The structured slots allow the Programme Selection Committee to assess each group’s performance without delays. This standardised evaluation format is intended to support a smooth selection process and ensure fairness across all participating associations.
For administrative queries and clarifications regarding the rehearsals, participating groups may contact Sujit Kumar Roy, GTT (F/A), at the phone number provided. The Directorate has urged representatives to reach out during working hours only, helping streamline communication and avoid last-minute issues.
The Island Tourism Festival is known for showcasing the cultural diversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, featuring performances from traditional folk groups, community associations, and contemporary artists. By mandating rehearsals and quality checks, the Directorate aims to present a cohesive, culturally rich programme that appeals to residents and visitors alike.
The rehearsal announcement marks a key preparatory step in the run-up to ITF 2025, ensuring that performers are stage-ready and that the festival’s artistic standards are upheld. With the dates now finalised, participating groups are expected to focus on fine-tuning their acts ahead of the screening by the Programme Selection Committee.
