The Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) is celebrating continued exposure of youthful talent in Saint Lucia’s calypso scene, a development that PRO Chelsa Jongue says is a clear sign of the genre’s cultural vitality and sustainability.
“Calypso is a very exciting part of the Lucian Carnival,” Jongue said, as the island gears up for the quarterfinal round of competition. “One of the things we've noticed is that there are quite a few new calypsonians coming into the art form. That, alongside our more established names, is a testament to our efforts at growing and developing the art form.”
The CPMC, Jongue noted, is guided by pillars of cultural development, inclusivity, and sustainability. These guiding principles are evident in the Committee’s support for young artists and the vibrancy of this year’s junior calypso and soca monarch competitions.
“We saw the young people, and we saw the quality of calypso being produced at the junior level. We've also seen these juniors on the national stage, and we're hoping to see them shine even more as competition season progresses,” she said.
According to Jongue, the high calibre of lyrics, vocal delivery, and stage presence among young calypsonians reflects the structured mentorship and training offered through the CPMC’s programs.
“We work extremely hard at the CPMC level to ensure that juniors are paired with seasoned calypsonians, whether it’s to prepare them for the stage or to support them vocally,” she explained. “So what you see at the junior level is a representation of the high quality that exists at the senior level.”
The quality of songs, both from the youth and veteran performers, has impressed audiences and judges alike, Jongue added: “Junior Carnival is proof that we believe in the development of our culture. We put in the effort to ensure that at every level, we have talent ready to sustain and carry forward our rich cultural traditions.”
Jongue urged the public to continue supporting the calypso tents and competitions throughout the season.