The directive: “lights, camera, action” could well be a part of a film industry future for many of the 100+ students attending The Dream Project, a week-long introductory film industry course held in Nassau and Eleuthera in March. The workshops were organised by Rowena Poitier-Sutherland and Ronald Sutherland of the Bahamas Artist Movement (BAM) and Jeffrey Poitier Productions and Nassau accommodations provided by the Hospitality sponsor, Sandyport Beach Resort.

Vernon Moss, resort manager at Sandyport Beach Resort was thrilled to host such amazing industry insiders and artists.

“I knew and admired Danny Glover from the Lethal Weapon movies but I was not aware of the extent of his activism and his generous spirit. All of the celebrity guests were so gracious and warm with our team. It was an exciting week not only in the workshops but at Sandyport!” Award winning film and television star Danny Glover, said he was enjoying the whole experience and was particularly impressed with his stay at Sandyport Beach Resort.

“BAM is a worthwhile programme and I commend the organisers; I’ve enjoyed the whole Bahamas experience. I loved it here, especially the tranquillity and quietness at Sandyport Beach Resort. it’s a lovely resort with friendly caring staff and I intend to return with my wife.”

Room attendant, Rosemarie Tulloch, said she recognised the film star right away and was thrilled when he greeted her so warmly.

“I was so excited, I recognised him from the movies – it was a real ‘wow!’ for me, especially to have my picture taken with him,” said Rosemarie. “He was also appreciative and thanked housekeeping staff every day.”

BAM provides the intensive workshop experience year round in Nassau, working closely with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and private and public schools.

Other Hollywood instructors at the Dream Project included Jeffrey Poitier, Sir Sidney Poitier’s nephew, and noted jazz vocalist Charmain Neville.

Jeffrey Poitier, who was born in The Bahamas recounted his early upbringing.

“I grew up in Deveaux Street South, Nassau. I was lucky to have Sidney Poitier as my uncle and that he took me to New York for the opportunity to live this dream of being a working actor.

My company, Jeffrey Poitier Productions is a BAM sponsor and so I stayed at Sandyport Beach Resort and I’m definitely coming back - it feels like home, a real home away from home. I just want to come back here as soon as I can – it’s unique and special.”

Another BAM teacher, New Orleans jazz singer Charmain Neville daughter of Charles Neville of the famous Neville Brothers agreed with Jeffrey Poitier.

“I had such a wonderful stay at Sandyport Beach Resort, everything was absolutely fabulous and I asked them to keep my same room ready. I had a spacious and comfortable suite I felt like I was at home. And all of the staff made me feel welcome.

I would be walking in the grounds and different people on the staff would come up and say, ‘hi’ to me and ask me how I’m doing. I read the online reviews but you know, until you have the great experience yourself, it means nothing.

Everything was wonderful and I’m going to have to write a song about the sounds and rhythms of the waves as they were relaxing and transformational.”

Vernon Moss said, “The youth of the Bahamas are our future and we at Sandyport Beach Resort are pleased to play our part in supporting their education.
“We understand that BAM plans to continue the Dream Project Celebrity Workshop series and we look forward to helping them further this amazing initiative. It is truly terrific what they have achieved for the kids attending the Dream Project workshops.”

About Sandyport Beach Resort
A New York Times write-up recommended Sandyport Beach Resort as a “serene” place to stay when in Nassau. Travel writer Brendan Spiegel included the popular resort in an article featuring 11 of the islands best attractions for the tourist seeking a subtler, more authentic Bahamian experience. Spiegel praised the popular Sandyport resort for its “picturesque collection of villas in a gated Marina community near Cable Beach with waterfront views and a serene atmosphere.” Additionally, Travel & Leisure wrote that it was “one of the best Boutique Resorts in the Bahamas.”

Serena Williams Media & Public Relations