A new studio has been named in honour of the founder and director of the St George’s Original Dancerettes.

A government spokeswoman said the Carla Watson Dance and Movement Studio was unveiled during a celebration that marked the dance group’s 35th anniversary and Ms Watson’s commitment to the Eastern Zone Community Centre.

She explained: “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.”

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said naming the centre’s dance and movement room in Ms Watson’s honour was “both appropriate and meaningful”.

She explained: “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.”

Ms Furbert also congratulated the St George’s Original Dancerettes on the group’s 35th anniversary and highlighted how it had evolved from a single evening programme into “a multigenerational institution that has inspired hundreds of children and young adults through dance, baton twirling, performance, teamwork and mentorship”.

The minister concluded: “As the Dancerettes celebrate their 35th anniversary, the programme continues to embody its enduring motto, ‘Dare to be different; an original is always worth more than a copy’.”