Kingston, Jamaica: Members of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) payed tribute to adjudicator, casting agent, and multi-award-winning actor, the late Christopher McFarlane, at a Candle Light Vigil held in his honour on Monday, September 19, 2022, at the Zacarama Entertainment Complex in Kingston. Mr. Andrew Brodber, Director of Arts Development and Training at the JCDC, said that he is still in a state of shock and disbelief. He explained that Mr. McFarlane had a long standing relationship with the Commission, having served for more than 12 years in the capacity of resource person, mentor, and adjudicator for the Jamaica Festival of the Performing Arts. “During my tenure as Drama, Speech and Literary Arts Development Specialist, I called on Christopher to give ideas and share some creative direction with our participants… we benefited greatly from his being with us.” He further stated that the JCDC is in the midst of a journey and it is sad that Mr. McFarlane and others won't be with us to celebrate the Commission’s 60th Anniversary. Mr. Shaun Drysdale, the Drama and Theatre Development Specialist at the JCDC also expressed sorrow over the passing of Mr. McFarlane. He said, “Jamaica has lost one more of its irreplaceable creative thespians. Let us see if we can unearth some more thespians to carry on the legacy.” In addition to providing professional support to the JCDC’s Arts programme at the national level, Mr. McFarlane also contributed significantly to the development of talented youth in his home parish, Clarendon. When contacted, Mrs. Pauline Henry-Blake, Interim Chair of the JCDC Clarendon Cultural Development Committee said she worked closely with Mr. McFarlane on several projects including, serving on the panel of adjudicators for JCDC’s Festival of the Performing Arts. “Christopher was a nice person, once you have Chris around you, the atmosphere is a positive energy. He was a jovial, humorous person. He was like an angel sent from God… Mr. McFarlane reportedly died in the hospital on Saturday, September 10, 2022. About the Jamaica Festival of the Performing Arts Programme The Jamaica Festival of the Performing Arts Competition is held annually to unearth, develop, and showcase the creative talents of Jamaicans from all walks of life. The areas covered include Dance and Deaf Dance, Drama and Theatre Arts, Traditional Folk Form, Music and Speech. This cultural opportunity has benefitted many Jamaicans including Karen Harriot, Deon Silvera and the late Christopher McFarlane, who went on to higher heights in their respective career fields and returned to assist with the adjudication process of JCDC competitions.