In 2004, the Cayman Arts Festival began as a dream - a dream that would see local and international artists joining together to celebrate artistic creativity and share it with the people of these beautiful islands. Much has developed since then. In addition to our Festivals every two years, we now have regular concerts throughout the year celebrating the talent of local artists through evenings of Music on the Menu. These events keep the spirit of the Cayman Arts Festival alive. In this year’s Festival, we are excited to present the ‘Rising Stars’ series which will feature the winners and selected finalists from the Butterfield Young Musicians of the Year for 2008 and 2009. Other musically talented young Caymanians will join forces with the Immaculate Conception High School Symphony Orchestra from Jamaica for our finale, ‘Youth2Youth – a Caribbean Collaboration’. In addition, schools concerts and workshops will feature very strongly, with all schools invited to participate in some way. Entertainment and inspiration will also be brought to the Cayman Arts Festival through performances ranging from ‘2 + 2 = 8’, featuring 4 pianists on 2 pianos, ‘Broadway Comes to Cayman’, a pot-pourri of showstoppers from favourite Broadway musicals, through to the hilarious one man stand up comedy show ‘Rainer Hersch – in ACME’. In 2008 the Festival event in Cayman Brac was a huge success, and we are delighted to bring Rainer’s outstanding talents to the Aston Rutty Civic Centre this year. Despite the economic downturn, we are very proud and deeply appreciative of the support that has again been provided by companies, Government agencies, and private individuals. Huge thanks also go to our Board members and organizing committee, who have shown absolute determination and dedication. Without them we would not have managed to organise all the events and raise the necessary funds to make this year’s festival a success. We sincerely hope that you enjoy our Festival offerings this year, and look forward to your continued support in the future. Jennifer Micallef and Glen Inanga Artistic Directors