On a rainy night that failed to dampen spirits, the TOT/Soca Village Calypso Tent blazed through its quarterfinal round with explosive energy, powerful performances, and a deep commitment to preserving Saint Lucian calypso. Speaking with palpable pride and emotion, Tent Leader Cecile Charles praised the 14 finalists who performed before the judges, describing the event as a significant milestone in the tent’s 2025 season.
“We are happy because we have worked very hard to ensure that the artists reached this stage,” said Charles. “Out of the 26 performers we featured in the first two shows, we conducted our own internal elimination process, and what you saw tonight is the result of that, talent, discipline, and dedication.”
TOT, widely recognized as one of the most consistent and dynamic calypso institutions in the country, showcased a blend of veteran artistry and fresh youthful energy. Charles said this balance is deliberate and crucial to the tent’s mission of sustaining the artform while developing the next generation of calypsonians.
“It’s really a mixture of youth and experience working together to ensure a very successful quarterfinal. The young blood is important, and we’re bringing them in, training them, mentoring them. It’s about building longevity for the calypso movement.”
Despite persistent rain, supporters turned out in strong numbers to back the performers. Charles credited the tent’s production team, management, and especially the Caribana Connection band for helping create an atmosphere that was both electric and seamless.
“The band is absolutely fantastic. Every single aspect of production has been well executed. What we’re seeing here is calypso at its best, not just a competition, but a cultural institution coming alive.”
While the results of the night remain in the hands of the judges, Charles was quick to note that TOT’s focus goes far beyond the crown.
“For us, it’s not just about the monarch. Yes, we have a history of winning titles. But we’re not just here for trophies. We’re about development, discipline, performance excellence, and preserving the integrity of the calypso artform.”
She also pointed to the quality of songwriting and message as key markers of the tent’s success.
“Not every good song wins. But that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. Tonight, we saw songs with meaning, messages, power, and that makes me proud. That is the essence of what we stand for.”
As the calypso season intensifies, Charles says TOT is poised to continue leading with purpose, quality, and heart. “Tonight was joy. Tonight was instruction. Tonight was proof that calypso is alive, and we are its guardians.”
The semifinalists from TOT/Soca Village are expected to be announced in the coming days.
