BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — FOLLOWING the successful staging of the 2025/2026 Republic Bank Junior Calypso Monarch competition on Sunday evening (Dec. 14), there is renewed optimism that the artform will continue to nurture and develop the talents of young people.
Fourteen junior calypsonians from primary and secondary schools competed for the titles, with Coryn Clarke and Edward Williams emerging victorious in their respective categories after lively performances at the Marriott Plaza.
Speaking with SKNVibes News, Director of Carnival Clement ‘Monarch’ O’Garro praised the participants and noted the steady growth of the competition.
“Well, I think that the artform is developing at a rapid pace,” he said.
O’Garro pointed out that just a few years ago only five to six juniors competed, compared to 15 or 16 participants in recent editions. He added that many of those early cohorts are now expected to transition into the senior competition as early as next year, a trend that has encouraged the National Carnival Committee.
Interest in Junior Calypso, he noted, continues to grow across both St. Kitts and Nevis.
“As the Carnival Committee, we are very, very happy with the show and the way it went,” O’Garro added.
However, with this year’s competition now concluded, questions remain about opportunities for junior calypsonians to gain exposure outside of the Carnival season. O’Garro acknowledged the concern, noting that promotion often focuses primarily on the winners.
“Basically, the winner is the one that gets put out there as it relates to any kind of promotion for Carnival and for him or herself,” he said. “That's something that we're thinking about. Everything involves money, and so yes, it's something that we are concerned about.”
He stressed that the issue extends beyond Junior Calypso.
“Not only for Junior Calypso, but every aspect of Carnival as well. We can portray this thing year-round, as opposed to just when the summer comes along. Do you think it's time to plan a new year? To operate throughout the year? For the last couple of years, definitely.”
O’Garro said discussions are expected to continue with the Department of the Creative Economy as efforts are made to explore alternative ways to showcase the work and talent of young calypsonians throughout the year.
