The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, through the Office of Youth Affairs, proudly celebrated the remarkable legacy of Ms. Carla Watson, recognising her 35 years of dedicated service as the founder and director of the St. George's Original Dancerettes and her decades of commitment to youth development, culture, and community building through the Eastern Zone Community Centre.
The commemorative event brought together colleagues, former and current Dancerettes, family members, friends, community leaders, and residents, all united in celebrating a woman whose passion and leadership have positively influenced generations of Bermudians.
While the St. George's Original Dancerettes remain her signature achievement, Ms. Watson's impact extends far beyond the dance floor, having served for more than 40 years at the Eastern Zone Community Centre.
A highlight of the ceremony was the official unveiling of the Carla Watson Dance & Movement Studio, a lasting tribute to a woman whose life's work has transformed the Eastern Zone Community Centre into a place where creativity, confidence, discipline, and community flourish.
The Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, delivered heartfelt remarks recognising Ms Watson's commitment to Bermuda's young people and the profound legacy she has built over more than four decades of public service.
Minister Furbert stated: “The naming of the Dance and Movement Room at the Eastern Zone Community Centre in honour of Ms. Carla Watson is both appropriate and meaningful.
It recognises her decades of service at this Centre, her contribution to youth development and culture, and the many lives that have been touched through the programme she has led.
This room will continue to be a place where young people can create, learn, move, perform and build confidence. In that way, today’s recognition honours a legacy already established while creating space for that legacy to continue.
On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Office of Youth Affairs, and the Eastern Zone Community Centre team, formerly the St. George’s Community Centre, I extend sincere appreciation to Ms. Watson for her many years of dedicated service to our young people and the wider community.
I also congratulate the St. George’s Original Dancerettes on 35 remarkable years and acknowledge everyone, past and present, who has contributed to their journey.”
Founded in 1991, the St. George's Original Dancerettes have become one of Bermuda's most recognizable community programs and today stand as the longest-running programme across the island's Community Centres. What began as a single evening program has grown into a multigenerational institution that has inspired hundreds of children and young adults through dance, baton twirling, performance, teamwork, and mentorship.
As the Dancerettes celebrate their 35th anniversary, the program continues to embody its enduring motto, "Dare to be different; an original is always worth more than a copy."
