Weekend Calypso Tent Set For High School Auditorium

An Easter Weekend tradition returns to stage at the Ruth Thomas Auditorium on Sunday night. Eight calypso artists are ready to showcase their ability to make up a song on the spot at the Bouy Ah Bouy, Big Man Ah Big Man Competition.

It’s the second year since the Covid-19 pandemic that the pre-Carnival musical event that was once a highlight of the annual production. Promoter Osbert Potter said six other performers are also slated to appear as non-competing entertainers.

Competitors will perform extempo songs based on the 2023 theme: If I Knew Then What I Know Now. Extempo songs are made up without prepared lyrics or a rehearsal. A panel of judges will declare the winner. 

Among this year’s contestants are former winners Waggy and King Kan Fuk Plentae. They will be joined by Super T, Broc Lee, John Gatti, Sorrow, and others.

Guest artists for Sunday’s show include Big O, Best O’ Dem, Wendy Joseph, and Blackest. 

For the past 24 years Potter, along with Strictly Local Productions, has staged the early April event as an informal kickoff to St. Thomas Carnival. Calypso fans would show up looking forward to an evening of music, fun, and laughter lasting into the early morning hours of the following day.

In years gone by, Bouy Ah Bouy was one of two — or occasionally three — calypso elimination tents, featuring several artists. A judging committee would determine which performers went on to compete in the calypso monarch competition.

But Potter said the field of performers had dwindled since then, making this year’s Easter Night performance a stand-alone event.

This year’s St. Thomas Carnival Calypso Monarch event is scheduled for April 24.

Those in search of tickets are being directed to two St. Thomas outlets: V.I. Bridal & Tuxedo at Lockhart Gardens, or they can get tickets through Otis Martin at the T Restaurant near Ulla Muller Elementary School.

Editor’s Note: The caption accompanying the photo for this story incorrectly identified the person as King Kan Fuk Plentae. It is King Generic (Morris Benjamin), who has won several Calypso Monarch crowns.