BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE first in a series of calypso shows, which are being organized to promote female calypso within the Federation, kicks off tomorrow evening (Jan. 29) at Ma Pau.
The initiative – described as a herculean task – is being organized by veteran calypsonian and writer Sylvester ‘King Socrates’ Hodge.
In explaining his vision to SKNVibes, King Socrates said in the Federation, there are more men than women within the calypso arena so much so that support for the Female Calypso Monarch Competition had dwindled over the past years and discontinued some years ago. It was however, resuscitated in 2014.
He said there are many talented women who – because of lack of exposure and or training – are not even aware of their talent and their ability to command the attention of an audience.
The show – which is slated to begin at 6:00 p.m. – will feature a number of female calypsonians – although some men are on the lineup.
The 2016/2017 Female Calypso Monarch Queen Diva, Lady B, Lil Miss Attitude, Queen Kibi, Singing Jennifer, Sweet Brown Sugar, Mighty J., Jungle Lion and Socrates are some of the artistes to perform during the inaugural show.
Queenie G along with the 2016/2017 Calypso Monarch King Craig, SKNVibes understands, were to have been performing at the event but a previously-scheduled event prevents them from doing so.
The initiative is sponsored by S. L. Horford’s and Co Ltd and the St. Kitts Breweries Ltd. However, Socrates said he is hoping that other members of the corporate community would also support.
“It is not a money-making venture…It is to create a cultural platform for the females to really develop their craft. So come carnival time, we would have a good quality show from the females. So this is somewhat of an academy for training them.”
Earlier this week Carnival Chairman Noah Mills congratulated Socrates on this initiative and pledged his committee’s support to the cause.
“I’m going to also congratulate the initiative that you are…implementing and fulfilling. The Carnival Committee is totally in support of you with developing female (calypso) and using the monthly...platform…as an opportunity for them to continually improve. We will find some way, not only attendance, but we’ll find some other way to continually support you, be it financial or from a marketing standpoint.
“…it is important if we want to nurture the calypso art form, not only at the senior level but at the female…not only do we have to give them an opportunity to showcase what they have learnt, but we need writers as well.”
