The Annual Calypso Extravaganza An Enjoyable Event

By Rupert Johnson
PRIDE Columnist

Once again the annual Calypso Extravaganza, staged at the Chinese Cultural Centre at 5183 Sheppard Ave. East on Saturday, July 25, 2015, was indeed an enjoyable event.

It is regrettable that the traditional Calypso Monarch Competition did not take place. Nevertheless, its replacement was indeed commendable. The organizers should be congratulated for putting together a splendid array of former competitors and Monarch winners. In addition, the other performers and the host for the evening, Dick Lochan, were of high quality.

The evening started with a fine and informative rendition about the history of calypso in Canada by Roger Gibbs. This was followed with a moment of silence for two outstanding calypsonians, Smokey and Leo who passed away last year.

Then came along the impressive array of well-known performers such as: Yellows, King Cosmos, Susan G., Connector, Structure, and of course the incomparable Macomere Fifi, in that distinguished category.

But the best was yet to come. There was great excitement in the air as soon as Aaron Duncan, a Trinidadian youngster of no more than 10 years of age arrived on the stage. And this unbelievable performer did not disappoint. There is no doubt that his amazing voice range is unparalleled. Of course those in attendance expected great things from him, but his entire performance surpassed their expectations.

And who can forget the melodious renditions by Sheldon Skeete from Britain, and David Rudder from Trinidad.

By and large it was an exhilarating evening to remember. There is no doubt that the performances captured and highlighted the cultural and social essence of the Caribbean.

The only shortcoming was the poor quality of the sound system that made the lyrics almost inaudible, and loudness of the band.

Rupert Johnson can be reached at: r.b.johnson@sympatico.ca.