Posted on 09/25/2010 5:44:47 PM PDT by nickcarraway
Goals include promoting calypso and improving calypsonians' lives
Reigning Calypso Monarch Kurt Allen wants to use his title to help preserve the legacy, integrity and historical value of calypso music through the establishment of the Office of the Calypso Monarch. The initiative was launched yesterday at the National Academy for the Performing Arts, Port of Spain, with the unveiling of a crest.
"When I became Calypso Monarch, I made a pledge that I will let my reign be reflective and symbolic of new development because I believe that emphasis must be placed on youth in calypso," Allen said.
The office will establish a council of calypso monarchs comprising monarchs from the various artforms. Some of the goals of the office include investigating the living conditions of elderly calypsonians and, where necessary, making interventions to improve their quality of life; engaging the Government and nation through advocacy to recognise calypso as Trinidad and Tobago's "classicism"; and promoting calypso as a key economic driver and a critical component of socioeconomic activity.
Allen said he will work with the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation as an advocate for improved terms and conditions for calypsonians.
Tuco executive member Franz "DeLamo" Lambkin told the audience such an office should have been established years ago.
"Some years ago I heard a cry 'pass the ball' and I want to apologise because as older heads we were insecure and reluctant to pass that ball," Lambkin said.
At the launch, special tribute was paid to Percy "Striker" Oblington, Morrell "Luta" Peters and Dr Leroy "Black Stalin" Calliste .
advocates: Former calypso monarch Morrell "Luta" Peters, left, and reigning Monarch Kurt Allen at the National Academy for the Performing Arts, Port of Spain, yesterday. The two calypsonians were there to celebrate the launch of the Office of the Calypso Monarch.
OMG! How long before Michelle “Bigbooty” Obama unveils her calypso initiative?
Shake ya booty, Mama!
Is “Calypso Louis Farakan” on board with this group?
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