SVG Calypso Association Calls for Increased Prize Money Amid Rising Costs

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Calypso Association (SVGCA) is urging for an increase in prize money for the kaiso competition, citing rising costs and the significant role calypsonians play in the VincyMas carnival events. Currently, the Calypso Monarch receives EC$25,000.

At a press conference on May 21, 2024, Roberts 'Patches' Knights voiced the frustrations of the calypsonians, emphasizing the need for better compensation. "I hope that the CDC would up its game...prize money has been a vexing issue with us for years. We know the power we exert in terms of bringing people to the shores of St Vincent and the Grenadines during this premier festival we call Carnival and we believe that it is long overdue for us to get a raise," Knights stated.

The call for increased prize money is not new. Last year, soca artistes also demanded higher prize money and appearance fees, but their requests were not met, leading some to withdraw from competitions. The SVGCA is now seeking a similar increase, highlighting the rising costs associated with hosting calypso tents.

SVGCA president, Earl 'Cabba' Bennett, expressed cautious optimism about the prospects of an increase this year. He noted the importance of adequately compensating calypsonians for their contributions to the cultural and economic success of VincyMas.

Currently, the prize money for the Calypso Monarch stands at EC$25,000. Last year's demands from soca artistes included increasing prize money for the Ragga Soca and Power Soca competitions to $40,000 for first place, $25,000 for second, and $15,000 for third place, as well as an increase in the appearance fee to $5,000.

The SVGCA's call for increased prize money underscores the broader issue of fair compensation for artists who play a pivotal role in attracting visitors to the carnival. As the 2024 VincyMas carnival events approach, the association hopes that their demands will be met to reflect the rising costs and their invaluable contributions.

Key Takeaways

• SVGCA urges increase in Calypso Monarch prize money from EC$25,000 due to rising costs.
• Calypsonians play a significant role in VincyMas carnival events, attracting visitors to St Vincent and the Grenadines.
• Last year, soca artistes demanded higher prize money and appearance fees, but were not met.
• SVGCA seeks similar increase, highlighting rising costs of hosting calypso tents.
• Fair compensation for artists is a broader issue, as they contribute to carnival's cultural and economic success.