More younger persons needed to sustain calypso artform – SVGCA

In order to sustain the calypso artform, young persons must be recruited.

That is the view of President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Calypso Association (SVGCA) Earl “Caba” Bennett who speaking at a recent press briefing said that this year, young calypsonians will be highlighted in special ways.

He declared that he is proud that two young calypsonians, M’riah “Young Siah” Robertson and Kristiana “Singing Kristy” Christopher are into the finals of the Queen of Calypso Competition slated for Friday June 8.

Young Siah is the holder of the National Junior Soca Monarch crown while Singing Kristy is the holder of the Secondary School Calypso crown.

“It is important to showcase and highlight and shed light on calypso…and the more seasoned calypsonians invite the young blood,” said Bennet who added they must ensure they have a platform to create the environment that is inclusive to the junior calypsonians.

He noted that calypsonians like Glenroy “Sulle” Caesar, Jerome “Parry” Samuel and Robert “Patches” Knights are involved in mentoring while the various tents allow the juniors to perform and as a result they are getting valuable experience.

Bennet said this year, in an effort to give exposure, there will be a caravan and other shows to allow the youngsters to showcase their stuff before the Junior Calypso/Soca Monarch competition on Tuesday, July 3.

He said the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) and producer Junior Sutherland will co-ordinate a school tour to promote and market the Junior Calypso/Soca Monarch competitions.

Students will be showcased on June 9 in Layou where they will sing with a band and gain valuable experience according to Bennett.