Artists

Meet Sheldon Shepherd, the charismatic MC and host of the Gold Stage at our festival. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Sheldon is a true Renaissance artist with a remarkable career that spans over two decades. He has left an indelible mark on the creative landscape as an award-winning actor, dub poet, and speaker.

Sheldon’s journey began with his deep-rooted passion for dub poetry, inspired by his father. He quickly rose to prominence as a founding member of The No-Maddz, a Jamaican art collective and roots reggae dub poetry band. The group gained international recognition, even securing an endorsement deal with Puma and touring across Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Sheldon has showcased his acting prowess in critically acclaimed films like “Better Mus’ Come,” for which he won Best Actor at the American Black Film Festival and Idris Elba’s “Yardie.” He also played in the highly anticipated Bob Marley biopic One Love, portraying a young Neville Garrick

Sheldon’s vibrant personality and dedication to preserving Jamaica’s cultural heritage make him the perfect host for the Gold Stage. His ability to engage and energize the audience, combined with his deep arts knowledge, ensures an unforgettable experience for all festival-goers.