JUNIOR CALYPSO WRITING WORKSHOP & JUDGES WORKHOP IN CARRIACOU

The Grenada Carnival Committee continues its endeavor to contribute to the further growth and development of Carnival and all things cultural.

On Saturday March 25^th an eminently qualified group of facilitators traveled to the Sister Isle to conduct two workshops.

The first workshop emphasized the development of ideas into actual songs. A small turnout did not in any way diminish the significance and purpose of the occasion. The Junior Calypsonians in Carriacou are very, very promising and were able to make a lasting impression on the facilitators who included Neil Ferguson and Soca Artiste Marieo Castle.

Marieo made a presentation on decorum and the responsibilities of and expectations from Artistes. Issues such as mode of dress, punctuality and discipline were addressed during Marieo’s delivery.

As has become the norm, Neil Ferguson’s presentation was able to draw the attention of the Juniors and maintain a keen interest right to the end. The Juniors have been assigned to complete songs that they began writing during the workshop.

Carriacou’s Carnival and Calypso should be better off once this very essential program continues, giving the Juniors an opportunity to further develop their skills, not only for competition but assist in their overall social development.

The second workshop was better attended and went for well over 4 hours. The adjudication process for Calypso and Soca competitions remains one of the more controversial issues during any particular Carnival season.

One of the major contributing factors to that particular situation is the glaring lack of communication between all involved in the process. Very often the Artistes are not aware of what the judges are looking for and the organizers of the various shows are unaware of any adverse conditions that may be of hindrance to the Artistes.

The Judges’ workshop in Carriacou was the initial step in creating an environment for open, frank and constructive discussions about the adjudication process. The facilitators were not only concerned about the competitive nature of the various shows but also the overall development of the Artform.

Experienced judges Colin Dowe and Aalan Robinson were the main facilitators for this workshop. Both gentlemen must be commended for ably addressing some of the more controversial issues related to the adjudication process. As expected the questions were probing and some of the issues burning but both Mr. Dowe and Mr. Robinson were able to emphasize what the expectations are when one is sitting at the judges’ table.

A major issue was the notion of prejudging songs. Emphasis was placed on the fact that Artistes are judged on their performances on the night of competition and not on what is heard on the radio or at other live performances.

With the formation of the Judges Association and the continuation of the workshops the Artforms of Calypso and Soca are poised to reclaim their rightful places as major cultural and social components of the Grenadian Society.

Dexter Mitchell

Grenada Carnival Committee