BIGGER plans are in store for Carnicopia Carnival in 2023.
The Buccoo-based organisation, founded by Nickocy Phillips and the executive of TT Youths Will Rise, made its debut during Tobago's inaugural carnival, which took place from October 28-30
At the launch of Carnicopia Carnival's Mas & Calypso Fiesta on October 21 at the Buccoo Integrated Facility, Phillips said the event was intended to give spectators 'the true revelry of the carnival itself.'
More than ten calypsonians, including some seasoned performers, participated in the competition. Several ole mas and conventional bands also competed.
But speaking at Carnicopia's prize-giving ceremony on November 11 at the Buccoo Multipurpose Facility, Phillips said the event will not be a competition, but a fiesta. Its mas, calypso and pan fiesta is expected to take place on October 20, 2023.
'For the fiesta part of it we looking at two things. After the THA competition for the October carnival, we are going to have a fiesta where all of the winners, all the people who didn't have the opportunity to participate in all of the competitions that the THA will be holding for the October carnival, we will now have a fiesta and a presentation to the people of Tobago and international artistes,' Phillips said.
Mas lovers can also look forward to a J'Ouvert band and classes in wire-bending, voice-training, music production and marketing.
A Carnicopia committee is expected to be formed in December to co-ordinate the event.
Phillips, an ambassador with TT Youths Will Rise, will travel to the US in March to attend a UN conference in Washington.
Phillips has organised meetings with stakeholders and there will be a Carnicopia booth at the event. Discussions with the mayor of Baltimore, commissioner of police and other high-ranking officials are also on Phillips' agenda.
Minister of Sport and Community Development and Tobago West MP Shamfa Cudjoe urged the artistes to take advantage of the opportunities that are available to them through the Government.
In remarks delivered by her personal assistant Zach Williams, Cudjoe said, 'I want to remind our creatives that if you need assistance, please reach out to us. The Government has a number of grant programmes geared toward the development of culture and community. Do not be afraid to seek assistance, because we are here to serve and to help promote our culture on a larger scale.'
She further urged the island's young creatives and calypsonians to stay consistent.
'Build your catalogue and take every opportunity you can to learn and excel. You are the future standard-bearers and promoters of this country's rich culture. Do not allow anyone to deter or silence you while on your journey.
'Each of you displayed your talent in all its splendour and demonstrated to the world that Tobago has nothing but the best to offer. The community work we see here is testament to what we can accomplish when we work together.'
Cudjoe al
