Is T&T Carnival Still The Greatest Show On Earth?

In Defense of We Carnival

Recently, a situation has arisen where differing perspectives prompt contemplation.  

I am referring to two instances of locals expressing sentiments critical of the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, it makes you stop and think.

One is a video circulating on WhatsApp and Facebook. The other is an article published in a local newspaper.

Initially, I acknowledged some validity in the perspectives but adamantly refrained from total agreement. Here is why.

Trinidad and Tobago is my home; I have to admit, it's not perfect, but it is home. No doubt, it is blind patriotism, I cannot endorse criticism about the place I hold dear because of their skewed perspectives.

The truth lies in the acknowledgment of varied perspectives. Take a minute and view the video below. This is a Trinidadian who is supposedly disheartened by her recent Carnival experience. She is putting it out there. I have seen many align with her viewpoints, my disagreement prevails.

She is making some valid points, consider her perspective. 

 

 

 

She's is right. Right?

So let's tackle her assertions about high prices, encompassing all-inclusive fetes, band fees, costume expenses, and tent costs, 

It is easy to concede that these prices are indeed high. 

However, take a minute and look at the huge number of masqueraders in each band with the high prices. It would appear that the prices are just where they need to be. If they are paying why complain about the price?   

The truth is that many band leaders had to shut it off from taking more participants most likely because costumes were sold out. 

I am sure that nobody was forced to pay one cent, everyone did it because they knew they would enjoy the experience, and most are above the average intelligence.    

She advises her listeners to explore alternatives, perhaps in Dominica she will learn that cheaper is not always better. You do what you can afford to do, no more. 

It is vital to recognize the economic reality of the individuals involved in Carnival, including band leaders, Steelband organizations, mas makers, and promoters, they all rely on funds generated in the carnival season for their livelihoods. Imagine a business that operates once for maybe two months out of the year.    

Next, if you consider the dormant state of the Carnival machine in the past two years, you will understand that the current economic landscape deserves your empathy.

When you understand the undeniable reality that the evolution of Carnival is a cultural event born out of a revolution, (Cambulay). The crux of the rebellion was the freedom to celebrate in any way they felt and to move away from the prevailing social norms.  

The rebellion continues, which leads to her next point of contention; naked mas.

She is not alone, a significant segment of society abhors and criticizes masqueraders in skimpy outfits. We are referring to; bare-bottom string bikinis, almost bare chests, gyrating in the streets.  

The assertion is that such choices indicate a departure from our culture in pursuit of virality on social media.  An article published in the Trinidad Express, written by the Minister of National Security, Fitzgerald Hinds, titled "Saving Carnival" shares a similar perspective. 

But is it true?  Are we losing the Spirit of Carnival? 

We have been answering that same question for over fifty years. 

Here is an excerpt from another article that expresses the sentiments of many locals, especially the older generation. It was written a local (older person), Terrence Honore, titled; “Carnival The Naked Truth”

“Now the bystanders, organizers, and the tourists all come out to see how we are moving like the aborigines, the indigenous costumes taking center stage. A piece of cloth to cover the private part, like the leaf in the Garden of Eden. We have come full circle. The fashion of our nation is nudity for all to see. What is next for our tourist plan, a full-fledged nudist band?” 

Read the entire article "Carnival: The Naked Truth," 

Now let's accept that 2024 is not the first year that there were bands of skimpy outfits. As mentioned before it has been happening for over five decades. 

When we speak of the evolution of carnival, we must understand that carnival is a product, there are elements of every product that attract a targeted audience. We are not all nudists, not everyone would put on a G-string and venture in public. Thank God we are not all alike. And thank God that there are people like that or we would have a boring carnival.  

There are segments of the population that feel they must pontificate about the horrible nature of carnival. That’s nothing new, it has been happening for over fifty years.

Carnival is evolving, and yes it’s commercialized, and so is Christmas. 

Nobody comes from America or Europe to see a Midnight Robber or a Blue Devil. They come because, we are a decadent society, maybe not you but why deny the ones who have been doing it all their lives, it’s in their DNA.

We all know that in marketing “sex sells” but Carnival is multifaceted extending beyond the imagery of naked women

Think about this; your focus is a choice. We all know that carnival encompasses more than just skimpy outfits.

It appears that critics did not see the intricate costumes designed by the King and Queen of the Bands. Imagine the creativity that went into making those costumes, it is proof that we are not losing carnival; its talent is growing with the youth. 

Ultimately, the assertion that the essence of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is reduced to nudity, challenges the readers to broaden their perspective. 

Perception is shaped by what one chooses to focus on, with a reminder that Carnival offers a diverse and vibrant array of experiences.

The all-inclusive fetes are all planned to give Carnival partygoers a unique party experience. There is no better-organized parties in the world. 

The intricacies of costume design go beyond sensationalized depictions. It showcases the Trinidad and Tobago people creative talents, sharing their imagination with the world. 

And Carnival Monday and Tuesday are two days of absolute fun in the sun. Skimpy outfits or not, we come together and enjoy looking in amazement at each other, and now the tourists are lost in the spirit of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. 

Why would anyone want to go to any other carnival in the world is beyond. 

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is the Greatest Show on earth. 

 

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2024

 The Greatest Show On Earth

What Is T&T Carnival All About?

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is a vibrant celebration that transcends the boundaries of time, culture, and geography. For a foreigner living in the United States, South America, Europe, Japan or China,, this dazzling spectacle may seem like a distant mirage, a dreamlike fusion of rhythmic beats, kaleidoscopic colors, and boundless revelry.

Embark on a journey with me as we explore the captivating events leading up to the final two days of this grand fiesta.

Buildup to the Carnival:

The anticipation for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is palpable long before the first beats of the steel drums reverberate through the air. The prelude to the Carnival is a crescendo of excitement, starting weeks in advance with a series of electrifying events and competitions that set the stage for the main extravaganza.

Calypso Competitions:

Calypso, the soulful and socially conscious genre of Trinidadian music, takes center stage in the lead-up to the Carnival. The air is filled with the lyrical prowess of calypsonians, who engage in spirited competitions, using their verses to comment on social issues, political commentary, and even cheeky humor. The calypso tents become arenas of linguistic mastery and musical brilliance, where artists vie for the coveted titles, showcasing their storytelling abilities and sharp wit.

 Kids Mas Competition:

The younger generation is not left out of the Carnival fervor, as the Kids Mas Competition ignites the spirit of creativity and youthful exuberance. Children don colorful costumes, each ensemble telling a unique story, as they participate in parades and competitions showcasing their artistic flair. The joyous laughter of children mingles with the rhythm of steel drums, creating an atmosphere of pure, unbridled delight.

Fetes:

The road to Carnival is paved with a multitude of fetes, or festive gatherings, that captivate revelers with their infectious energy. These fetes are not merely parties; they are immersive experiences where the essence of Trinidadian culture comes alive. Soca music pulsates through the night as attendees, adorned in glittering costumes, dance under the starlit Caribbean sky. Each fete carries its own distinctive flair, from the traditional soca fetes to the avant-garde electronic music extravaganzas.

The Parade of Bands:

As the crescendo of excitement reaches its zenith, the Parade of Bands heralds the imminent arrival of the grand Carnival climax. This spectacle is a moving tapestry of color, as thousands of revelers adorned in elaborate costumes flood the streets, creating a living, breathing masterpiece of artistic expression. The parade showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the costume designers, whose creations range from mythical creatures to historical figures, all meticulously crafted to dazzle and captivate.

Final Two Days: The Grand Finale

The final two days of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival are the zenith of this unparalleled celebration, a culmination of weeks of preparation, creativity, and anticipation.

 Dimanche Gras:

Dimanche Gras, or "Fat Sunday," is a night of extravagant performances and competitions that captivate the nation. The Kings and Queens of Carnival take the stage, flaunting their majestic costumes in a bid for the ultimate title. The air is thick with excitement as the audience is treated to an array of talent, from intricate dance routines to awe-inspiring fire-eating displays. The crowning of the Monarch of the Carnival is a moment of glory, symbolizing the pinnacle of artistic achievement.

Carnival Monday:

Carnival Monday bursts forth with a cascade of colors, as masqueraders take to the streets in a riotous display of revelry. The music of steel drums, the infectious beats of soca, and the lively rhythm of calypso form the soundtrack to this day of unbridled joy. The streets become a canvas of exuberance, with mas bands weaving through the city in a dazzling procession of creativity. Each costume tells a story, a visual narrative that merges tradition, fantasy, and personal expression.

Carnival Tuesday:

Carnival Tuesday, the grand finale, is a spectacle of unmatched grandeur. The streets are transformed into a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues, as masqueraders revel in the freedom of self-expression. 

The Parade of Bands on this day is a breathtaking visual feast, a moving panorama of creativity and cultural pride. The air is thick with the pulsating rhythms of soca, echoing the heartbeat of the nation in a rhythmic dance of unity and diversity.

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is not merely an event; it is an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of culture and nationality.

The vibrancy, creativity, and sheer exuberance of this celebration may seem like a dream—a dream that beckons with the promise of an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Trinidadian culture. 

As the final notes of the steel drums fade away and the glittering costumes recede into the distance, the memory of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival lingers, a testament to the enduring spirit of revelry and unity that defines this unparalleled celebration.

The Most Outlandish, Crude & Sexy Trinidad Carnival In History

Was This The Lewdest Carnival In History of Trinidad and Tobago?

That's what the pillars of society are telling the population in hindsight. Religious leaders, politicians and many other civic organizations have put in their two cents.

They objected to the media, both print and television for showing all the lewdness without regards for the children in the society.  Gyrating pictures of Carnival masqueraders or people in fetes, they are pictures of people "enjoying themselves" letting go of the normal inhibitions. A controversy now rages in the country.

According to the web analytics, most of the returning visitors to the Caribbean Blogger are foreigners. Many belong to the global diaspora with the highest number in the United States but they also are in Russia, India, China, Singapore and other far off lands.  As such, most of you must have missed the Carnival,

Today you can share in the controversial slice of the 2014 Carnival Celebration in Port of Spain.
View the video below, look at it with an objective eye.  Think about what your local friends, where ever you are, would you share it as an example of how Trinibagonian enjoy Carnival?  Have our sense of morals and ethics degenerated to this level of behavior in a desperate attempt to get momentary attention of onlookers?.

These are some of the questions being asked in Trinidad and Tobago today.  People are talking about this, and maybe in a few days something else will hug the headlines but even if forgetten for now, it will be revisited annually.  Was this ever an issue? Why now?

Will it get worse? Will the society continue to accept the demonstrations of lewd and lascivious public  behavior without any controls?  The "Carnival Spirit" is offered as an excuse for their behavior. There are other odorous spirits we know that are always involved; we volunteer to succumb to these spirits.  On politician suggested that it only happens on Carnival, so it just might be OK.

Listen to the tunes that is played to encourage the behavior, it is not just the women behavior they are just doing what the music instructs them to do.  The fact is if it's legal to give these sort of instructions in a song and being played on the radios and on the road, what are people expected to do. Few can stand still after
throwing back a couple and catching the "Spirit".

You be the judge...





Take a look and leave your comments if you dare, it could even be anonymous. 

Will MacFarlane Stop Carnival?

Dismissed Claims That Trinidad & Tobago Carnival Is "The Greatest Show On Earth"


Here's a direct quote from the veteran mas man:

Rubbish.  What we have is the greatest street party.  But when you see what Rio (Brazil) has the elaborate costumes, their Carnival reflests their culture.  Brazil carnival is far, far superior to outs. 

 "Brazil's carnival is far, far superior to ours. We keep saying we are getting closer to Brazil but we aren't, each costume starts at US$2,500 for a costume. Anybody can join a samba school but you have to sign a contract and learn the dances. It's well-done stuff, not the crap you see here," he admonished.

Now I don't think that MacFarlane read what I had written just before this Carnival. The post entitled Marketing Carnival To the World

If as Mr. MacFarlane's said that it has been a bad business decision to continue he should know.  I certainly don't think he did it because he wants to start  controversy. 

The controversy has been brewing for some time and successive administrations keep missing the point. It certainly not equitable to offer millions in prize money for individuals while offering pittance incentives to large bands. That will not keep the tradition alive.

As Mr. MacFarlane explained he has not been able to come up with a profitable business model to make it worth his while in the nine years he has been trying.  That does not mean that no business model will work, just means that he has not found one yet.

What does this mean for Carnival?

Mr. MacFarlane is the only large mas leader to come out like this.  If it's the same for others we can expect that it will be a wake up call for many of them and we will start seeing a reduction of the size of the now big bands.

Other than that, Carnival will go on.  People are already getting ready for the 2014 Carnival.

What do you think?
 

Who Will Be T&T's 2012 Calypso King?

2012 Calypso King Semi Finals Are Over.

Last Saturday, February 11 2012 a total of 18 females and 24 males competed for the 2012 Calypso King semi finals in Skinner Park, San Fernando.  Many of their renditions focused on political and social issues.    

The new People’s Partnership Government got a heavy tongue lashing for political maneuvers especially on the State of Emergency.  On the social side, songs focused on the Afro Trinidadians, advising and ridiculing pointing out their weaknesses. 

   

Winston Scarborough, “D Original De fosto Himself” and Edwin Ayoung, “Crazy” were the only two competitors to get the traditional “shit” awards when the crowd pelted them with toilet paper rolls.  All the other contenders were warmly received.  

Although the Prime Minister, Kamla Persad Bissessar, attended the show she understandably kept a low profile especially with the political mood of the crowd.  The eleven finalists selected to appear at the Dimanche Gras Show on Carnival Sunday night are in no particular order, they are as follows:

1.       Brian London

2.       Damian Seales

3.       Dexter “Stinger” Parsons

4.       Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool

5.       Duane O’Connor

6.       Heather McIntosh

7.       Kurt Allen

8.       Lesley Ann Ellis

9.       Michael “Sugar Aloes” Osuna

10.   Sandra “Singing Sandra” Des Vignes

11.   Weston “Cro Cro” Rawlins

They are all going after the reigning 2011 National CalypsoMonarch, Karen Asche who will be defending her title.   Although, the Caribbean Blogger is not privy to the working of the calypso minds in T&T we are predicting that Karen will have a lot of trouble retaining her crown for another year.   

Word on the street is that her victory last year was a fluke.  She came in from no-where and cop the title from under the noses of some veteran Calypsonians and five previous crown winners like the Mighty Chalkdust and Kurt Allen.  

Like everyone else we will all know on February 19, 2012, at the Dimanche Gras show. 

Keep informed. 

8 Anti-Crime Tips For Trinidad & Tobago Carnival Visitors

Don't Let Bandits Take The Fun Out of Your Carnival Vacation

This is an advisory if you intend to visit Trinidad and Tobago for the local Carnival celebrations.  Be assured that although Trinidad and Tobago is ranked next to Jamaica as one of the murder capitals of Caribbean most dangerous islands it is still a very safe place to visit.  

There are a few things that you should know if you intend to visit Trinidad for the Carnival celebrations.  This goes especially for visitors who have no friends and family in Trinidad.  More so if you have never visited during the Carnival.   Here are a few tips that the CIA Report or travel brochures would not mention. 

             Let’s get this straight; “bandits” (the name given to robbery perpetrators in Trinidad and Tobago) can and will rob anyone at anytime.  These tips are intended to make you aware of some behaviors that can make you less susceptible to becoming a victim on your vacation.   This is no joke. 

Locally “bandits” have been known to rob everyone traveling in a maxi taxi (that’s the local mode of public transportation that seats 12 or 25 passengers).   The police service is not as efficient as the law abiding natives would wish.  They are notorious for a low crime detection rate; currently less than 10 percent.  Of course as a visitor you will get more attention but that does not amount to a hill-a-beans if you are hurt or lose your valuables.   Here’s what you need to know…

1.      Blend In:  Visitors are more vulnerable because they have a tendency to stand out in a crowd.  Natives can easily identify a tourist by the way they are dressed, their accents and what they are carrying in their hand.  Unfortunately, if you are Caucasian, you stand out even more.  Although there are a small percentage of Caucasians who made Trinidad and Tobago their home a long time ago even some of the natives are targeted.  Regardless of your race do not do the following:

2.      Dress:  It is hot in Trinidad and most visitors tend to dress a lot lighter than they did in the cold climates.  The warning is for women, do not wear skimpy alluring clothing be sensible you do not want to be marked out for an unforgivable sin.  Everyone, men and women should not be adorned with jewels.  Leave it in your hotel room or at home.  And while we are on that one, also leave your passport and travel documents in a safe place.  

3.      Private Transportation: Do not rent a car and drive aimlessly around Port of Spain or some other areas in Trinidad which were labeled hot spots during the recent State of Emergency.  In fact, if you can avoid renting a vehicle, do so because if you came to enjoy the carnival you cannot use a vehicle in the places with most of the action.  If you must rent a vehicle make sure and have a native who can direct you as to where not to go.   

4.      Public Transportation:  You are safest in the government run buses that you can board in Port of Spain.  These buses run throughout the country but they are not always very reliable.  It may require some wait but if you get the schedule and be patient that is the safest way to make a trip say from Port of Spain to Arima.   Believe it or not the next best and safest mode of transport are the maxi taxis that were mention earlier.  Yes there have been a number of robberies on these vehicles but generally they are a safe and quick way to travel.  They are on a fast route from Port of Spain to Arima on what is called the “Priority Bus Route”.   

5.      PH Transportation: You can also use the regular passenger sedan taxi which all start with the letter “H”.   Privately owned vehicles start with the letter “P” but they are also used as taxis.  Locally they are known as “PH” taxis and there is no recognizable difference between a “PH” for hire and a privately owned vehicle except for the actions of the driver.  They may see you standing on the side of the road and blow their horns or use hand signals to let you know that they are for hire.  This mode of transportation as you would imagine is the most dangerous way to travel.  There are a lot more stories of either the driver being attacked or a passenger (s) and driver robbing, sometimes raping another passenger.  

6.      Carnival Events: To experience the real spirit of Carnival you will want to attend a few selected events. For the music lovers, pan is the order of the day although on Carnival day you will see many large trucks with DJs playing a variety of local and foreign music.   However, at the cultural show expect to hear calypso, soca and chutney.  Attending these events can be tricky if you are a tourist and know very little about the island.  You may be able to get transportation to the event but it is the return trip that can be scary.  Avoid it if you can.  This is where your only option may be the “PH” vehicles.  That late at night it is unwise to rely on that mode of transport even for the natives.  Always arrange how you will get back to your place before you venture out to a late night event. You should not attend a fete because it sounds like fun on the radio or television.  

7.      Drugs:  If you do drugs and you are caught even with as little as one marijuana cigarette you will be arrested.  Do not attempt to purchase drugs from strangers. There are marijuana and cocaine dealers in every city in Trinidad but unless you know someone, and you would not because you are a visitor, it would be plain stupid to attempt to purchase drugs.  And by the way, if you are thinking about bringing in your own that too would land you in jail.  Possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia is a serious offense in Trinidad and Tobago. 

8.      Drinking:  Be aware that if you drive in Trinidad and Tobago that recently passed breathalyzer legislation was recently passed and you could be arrested if you are field tested as be inebriated.  If you are not driving, public drinking is allowed as you will note that the locals are not shy about drinking in public.  

We hope that what you read here puts things in perspective for you.  This was not written to scare you off or to ruin your Carnival vacation.  This is an advisory and you can enjoy our tropical paradise with its beautiful sights and sounds. You will leave with a lifetime of Kodak moments to share with your family and friends.  Have a great time in Trinidad and Tobago.  

This article was written by  T&T Carnival Visitors Concierge Services,  find out how you can enjoy Trinidad and Tobago Carnival with the help of a native and get a free schedule of Carnival fetes.  Click here.