BIGARD SHINES AT THE 7TH ALL NIGERIAN MAJOR SEMINARIES FESTIVAL OF ARTS AND CULTURE (ANMSFAC), EKPOMA 2025
Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu, once again proved its artistic and cultural excellence at the 7th All Nigerian Major Seminaries Festival of Arts and Culture (ANMSFAC) held at the Seminary of All Saints, Uhiele-Ekpoma, Edo State. The event, which brought together fourteen major seminaries from across Nigeria, was a grand showcase of faith, culture, and artistic ingenuity.
A Grand Arrival and a Spirit-filled Opening
Led by our esteemed Formators Rev. Fr. Dr. Kevin Udenwagu, our Vice Rector I and Moderator of Bigard Theatre and Art Club, and Rev. Fr. Dr. Basil Okeke, Moderator of Bigard African Thought and Culture Society the Bigard contingent arrived at the festival ground on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in high spirits. The Opening Mass on Wednesday, February 19, was presided over by Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, Bishop of Auchi Diocese. His homily emphasized the role of arts and culture in manifesting the greatness of God and fostering unity. The festival was officially declared open at 11:01 AM, with the ANMSFAC Anthem resounding through the venue.
Day 2: Drama Presentation
On Thursday, February 20, the performance theatre came alive with cultural drama presentations from the participating seminaries. Bigard’s play, a thrilling blend of Igbo proverbs, cultural aesthetics, and Christian themes, captivated the audience. Our actors, fully adorned in traditional regalia, embodied their roles with finesse. The drama highlighted the harmony of faith and culture, earning admiration from the judges and audience alike.
Day 3: Musical Competition
The musical competition on Friday, February 21, was another defining moment. The Bigard Choir, scheduled to perform 13th, took time to perfect their piece, ensuring an impeccable rendition. Just before their performance, the arrival of our beloved Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Albert Ikpenwa, electrified the contingent. His presence was a monumental morale booster, and when Bigard finally took the stage at 3:55 PM, it was a performance to remember.
Gala Night and Triumph
The Gala Night was the festival’s highpoint, featuring dazzling performances before the much-anticipated results were announced. Bigard’s efforts were richly rewarded as follows:
> Arts Competition: 2nd Place
> Choice Music Piece: 3rd Place
> Chorale Performance: 2nd Place
Though faced with time constraints and stiff competition, Bigard’s contingent emerged victorious and jubilant, proving that resilience, grace, and dedication always shine through.
Day 4: Closing and Departure
The 2025 ANMSFAC came to a close with closing Mass on the morning of Saturday 22nd February, 2025. As the festival came to a close, Bigard left an indelible mark on ANMSFAC 2025 a beacon of cultural brilliance, artistic excellence, and faith.
