Caribbean Cable Communications, Platinum sponsor of the Calypso Monarch Competition, donated EC$10,000 on Wednesday this week for the event due to take place on August 3 as part of the Anguilla Summer Festival.

L-R: Courtney Morton, Jerry Richardson, Leroy Richardson, Barbara Owen and John Benjamin

The presentation was made by the company’s Manager, Barbara Owen, to Courtney Morton, a representative of Jelecour Productions, an association formed to produce the Calypso Monarch Competition.

Mrs. Owen said this year’s competition theme “taking calypso above the rim”, was appropriate when one considered the length of time calypso rhythm had been an integral part of Caribbean culture.

She noted that over 100 years ago calypso had evolved from its roots as a means of communication among the slaves who were not permitted to speak in today’s way. She observed that oftentimes, laced with humorous satire of current events, calypso was referred to as the voice of social conscience.

Mrs. Owen was pleased that female singers were now among the top calypsonians in Anguilla, naming among them Lady Straw, Lady Messenger and Queen B.

“The Calypso Monarch competition is an opportunity for these talented men and women to showcase their unique talents and showmanship,” she stated. “The management and staff of Caribbean Cable Communications would like to wish them the very best.” She also applauded Jelecour Productions for its hard work and dedication in organising the competition.

Chairman of the Carnival Committee, John Benjamin, also noted the historical significance of calypso and its use as an art form during slavery and following emancipation. He was appreciative of the work of Jelecour Productions in producing the competition, congratulated those who are participating in the event and thanked Caribbean Cable Communications for its platinum sponsorship.

Leroy Richardson, one of the other producers, was grateful to the cable company for its support in the past and now for the first time being the overall sponsor of the competition.

There are eight calypsonians going up against the reigning Monarch in the finals. They are Sunbeam, Springer, Gossip, Controller, LS, Marsh Man, Queen Bee and Boss Man. The reigning Calypso Monarch is Repeater. Singers on the side show will include other local calypsonians and Pumgwah, past Calypso King of St. Kitts.

The Master of Ceremonies will be Alan Fortune of St. Thomas. There will be five judges for the competition.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News