BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE 2011 15th Annual Green Valley Festival got on its way last night (June. 8) with a full house at the Calypso tent Bacchanal showdown held at De Green Valley Pub.
Eight calypsonians exercised their vocal cords tackling a number of issues ranging from the injustices of the committee to the achievements of the festival over the past five years.
The calypsonians who took to the stage last night were Priest singing ‘No Bawl’, Sha Angel – ‘An Example Set’, Tallal – ‘Green Valley Jam’, Jungle Lion – ‘Gun Shot’, Copper Head – ‘One Song’, Godfrey – ‘Criminal Take Over’, Brabread – ‘You Got To Go’ and Watch You Back singing ‘Quite A While Now’.
Flosser who has a song entitled ‘Green Valley Heroes’ and Babu with ‘High Grade’ were both absent last night, but are expected to take part in the final show.
Watch You Back had the hit song for the night as he was called back for an encore performance and was also judged the crowd’s favourite. He was therefore allowed another performance to bring the curtains down on the event.
There was no elimination for the night, hence, all calypsonians will go up against Singing Angie on Saturday to see who has what it takes to end her two-year consecutive winning streak.
According to Head of the Calypso Committee, Mark O’Loughlin, each calypsonian would only be allowed to perform one song due to a number of reasons, including finance.
He said the number of calypsonians could increase on Saturday night but so far those are the names that have showed up for practice. He disclosed that others have also registered.
O’Loughlin said, in his opinion, last night was “a really great show”, better than he had expected.
He noted that a few persons also shared the same sentiments.
The Calypso Committee Chair further stated that the songs are really good and of a high standard.
O’Loughlin however added that he was disappointed in Babu’s absence because he was really looking forward to his performance.
The show, which was emceed by ‘Cuttoe’ and reigning Green Valley Queen Ivanka James, ended shortly before midnight
The festival will host its official Opening Ceremony tonight, which will be followed by the Miss Green Mist Pageant on Friday night.
