BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Carnival Committee has paid homage to fallen calypsonian Reginald ‘Calypso Reggie’ Thomas during the Sugar Mas 44 Senior Calypso Monarch Competition held on Monday evening (Dec. 28) at the Sugar Mill on Port Zante.
Earlier this year, Calypso Reggie, as he was affectionately known, passed away at the Joseph N. France General Hospital.
Carnival Chairman Noah Mills and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture the Hon. Shawn K. Richards unveiled a painting of the fallen icon during the calypso show, explaining that it was felt to be a good way to immortalise him.
The artwork was done by Nevisian painter Vaughan Anslyn.
Prior to unveiling the masterpiece, the Deputy Prime Minister gave a glimpse into Reggie’s involvement in the Carnival and other activities across the Federation.
“The name Calypso Reggie became synonymous with that of Carnival. Reggie entertained us not just throughout Carnival activities, but he would have partaken in different community festivals throughout St. Kitts and Nevis. It is therefore only fitting that we pay tribute to Calypso Reggie.”
He said for the time being the painting would be displayed at the office of the Carnival Committee on Victoria Road, “after which we are going to find a more permanent home for it”.
The unveiling was welcomed by the audience which erupted in cheers at the sight of the painting.
Host for the evening, ‘Sandra B’, said she had received assistance from Calypso Reggie who would school her on what she should and should say when hosting shows.
One minute of silence was observed in Calypso Reggie’s honour.
Known for his waggishness and charisma, many individuals would have looked forward to him hosting calypso shows, especially since there was a particular flare that he added which no one else could.
