TUCO And THA Celebrate Tobago’s Veteran Calypsonians
Ten of Tobago’s veteran calypsonians were honoured as the Division of Tourism and the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) launched Calypso History Month celebrations.
During a ceremony held at the Scarborough Library to kick-start Calypso History Month, the THA Assistant Secretary of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities & Transportation, Niall George, said remembering calypsonians who have paved the way for developing the art form in Tobago is important.
“This Calypso History Month under the theme ‘Calypso: Heritage in Harmony, Empowering Tobago Voices’ is more than a celebration. It is an education, a preservation and a tribute. We are proud to honour ten of Tobago’s veteran calypsonians. Men and women who have dedicated their lives to the art and whose voices have echoed from Crown Point to Charlotteville. From small community tents to national stages, these honourees represent the richness and diversity of Tobago’s contribution to calypso.”
As part of the month-long celebration and Tobago’s fourth October Carnival, several events are planned throughout October, which Assistant Secretary George said will include the entire Tobago community.
“From our students to our elders and our diaspora. Through our exhibitions, school tours, calypso yard performances and public displays, we aim to educate, inspire, and remind everyone that calypso is not just a sound of the past. It is the voice of the present and the rhythm of the future.”
TUCO Tobago Zone Chairman Candice Robinson, reflecting on the historical roots of the calypso art form, called for continued collaboration in Tobago.
“Today as we embrace this space in the celebration of Calypso History Month, let tonight and other memorable times serve as the force to unite us in one accordance with love for the calypso art form.”
A Calypso Yard Concert will be held on October 21st at Fort King George, a Calypso History Exhibition and school tours on October 23rd and 24th at the Scarborough Library, and public art installations will take place at the Scarborough Boardwalk, the Esplanade, and Shaw Park Complex.
