The Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre was abuzz with energy and excitement on the evening of Friday 15 June 2018, as the third annual Inter-Primary School Calypso Competition kicked off with the National Anthem and the National Song. Proceedings flowed smoothly over the course of the evening with performances by From Within Dance, Reigning Junior Calypso Monarch Tyrique “Super Mario” Gumbs and the 2017 Inter-Primary School Calypso Monarch, Deronique “D’ Axe” Smith. Following a close and thrilling competition between the five participating schools, Marlon “The Mighty Trailblazer” Halley of the Morris Vanterpool Primary School emerged the 2018 monarch.
In second place was Shaniyah “Singing Niyah” Herbert of the Adrian T Hazell Primary, followed by Ianna “Lady Treasurer” Peters of Alwyn Allison Richardson Primary School in third. Rounding out the event were Shahida “Singing Storm” ABdur-Rahim of The Valley Primary School and Nikhil “The Mighty Nikhil” Chhatlani of the Omololu International School. Anguilla’s young calypsonians showcased their talent in spectacular style at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre, beautifully accompanied by the Platinum Band and encouraged by a large and appreciative audience.
The contenders all received day passes, compliments Magic City, as well as medals of participation.
The monarch received a Kindle, compliments FLOW and a trophy, and the second place winner received a $75 Gift Voucher compliments J & B Electronics and a trophy. Third and fourth place winners both received passes from Anguilla Water Sports with third place also receiving a trophy. In addition, the top three positions received Gift vouchers of US$300, US$200 and US$100 respectively, redeemable Gadget City and sponsored by the Department of Youth and Culture.
The Inter-Primary School Calypso Competition, held this year under the theme “Power of the People”, is designed to expose primary school students to the Calypso art form, and offer them avenues for positive, artistic expression. The organising committee comprising the Department of Youth and Culture, supporting calypsonians and the Platinum Band, wishes to thank the schools, the young calypsonians, as well as parents, sponsors and well-wishers for once again throwing their support behind our nation’s youth.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
