PHILIPSBURG – The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Silveria Jacobs attended both cultural Carnival programs, which took place over the weekend.
The Calypso elimination, which showcased the least number of participants in years, brought out the usual crowd of supporters, proving that the general public continues to support Calypso as a mainstay of the cultural heritage in the celebration of Carnival.
The Minister enjoyed the social commentary, musical and lyrical creativity of the calypsonians, which form part and parcel of Calypso, and were a major part of the entertainment for the appreciative crowd.
The Minister was inspired by the youth and female participants, as several young up and coming calypsonians came out in full force. Though not yet equal in numbers to men, the females proved that they could contend with the best.
The Road March competition was also held on Saturday night, April 2, and Minister Jacobs also extended congratulations on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten to Rumari “The Messenger” Rogers, who retained his crown. The Minister would like to see SCDF focus more attention on the promotion of these Calypso and Road March competitions on both senior and junior levels in the interest of the longevity of St. Maarten’s cultural heritage.
While Government also has plans to promote these art forms, the SCDF is charged with the development of Carnival and these form an integral part of the main cultural festival.
The Minister also congratulated the delegates of the Teen, Senior and Mature Carnival Queen pageants, who competed in the Interview/Debate competition held on Sunday, April 3, at the Belair Community Center organized by Posh Productions.
This new segment highlighted the intelligence and speaking ability of the delegates, while introducing the public to their personalities and platforms. Much success is wished to all participants in all cultural competitions, which will be held throughout the carnival season.
The general public is encouraged to support these cultural carnival programs, which promote positivity, build self-esteem and allow participants to showcase their many talents.
