The Speighstown Allstars is a non-profit organisation formed in 2020 by the British opera singer and comedian Melinda Hughes. She first came  to Barbados to perform at the Holders Festival in 2014.​ She then became curator of the Cobblers Live Festival at Cobblers Cove Hotel, Performers included Rory Bremner, Kit & Mc Connell, Lizzie Ball, David Shenton, Erin Shields, Shantal Martin, Dins & Tonics and Bounder & Cad. 

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​Melinda also organised ‘Hooray for Hollywood’ a celebration of music in film as part of the Barbados Independent Film Festival 2020.  

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During lockdown, Melinda answered the government call to contribute online with moral-boosting video. She contacted a selection of musicians on island and put together a cover version of the famous Merrymen calypso Beautiful Barbados starring Sir Cliff Richard and Emile Straker one of the original Merrymen. It received huge support across Barbados and from abroad. Melinda wrote, produced and directed Barbados Barbados, starring JJ Poulter, Alix Cage, Rogé, Alison Hinds and RPB.

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In March 20204 Melinda launched the first ever Allstars Festival at Hayman's Market which kicked off with an opera gala, played host to the comedian Rich Hall​ and showcased students from the Barbados Community College. Part of the festival's initiative was to include Bajan artists who get the opportunity to receive coaching from international singers, pianists and comedians.

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In 2026 they had an opportunity to sing alongside Joseph Calleja and conductor Gianluca Marcianò at Frank Collymore Hall. Calleja is one of the world's most famous opera singers and gave up his time to coach our tenor Nathan Richards. 

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Two of Melinda's proteges Shantal Martin & Nathan Richards are furthering their studies in London, whilst Fernando Watts now has a full-time position at Görlitz Opera House in Germany. 

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We are very grateful to The Maria Holder Memorial Trust for their financial support.

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