With plans in place for a bumper festival, the Take Over Tent – TOT/Soca Village collaboration stands as a major force in the Kaiso arena this carnival season, showcasing some of the country’s most respected and impactful calypsonians.
This year, the unit is committed to elevating its initiatives and has outlined concrete steps to advance the development of its members. Beyond comprehensive training sessions for artists, the unit is working towards introducing an innovative Insurance Package designed to support its members and their extended families.
During Wednesday’s media launch at the PCD car showroom in Vide Bouteille, TOT Tent Manager Cecil Charles acknowledged that the TOT/Soca Village has encountered challenges, yet management is unwavering in its commitment to a strategic agenda for the future welfare and sustainability of its members.
Charles emphasised that immediate action is necessary to ensure that the artists, who invest their passion and effort into their craft, receive the benefits they deserve.
“We have faced multiple challenges and the increasing number of artists opening up to us adds significant strain to our collaboration,” he asserted to the gathering.
In 2009, he stated, when the two tents collaborated, “There was a clear need for it.” However, now it’s evident that “much more must be done to benefit the calypsonians and the artists who invest considerable effort for the season.”
Charles condemned the current situation, saying it is “unfair” that these artists aren’t given more shows due to the collaboration. He pointed out that the two entities are the only tents maintaining this arrangement, while all other tents operate independently.
Highlighting the leadership capabilities displayed over the years through innovative components in the art form, he confidently chanted the TOT mantra: “We lead, they follow.”
He outlined the TOT/Soca Village schedule for the season, which includes:
– May 31: Opening show at the National Cultural Centre – June 8: Pre-Whit Monday holiday show
– June 18: Quarter Finals
Despite the impressive track record of title-crown winners in the Kaiso arena, Charles acknowledged that they’ve faced disadvantages this season with their production. With 30 artists in the tent setup, only 24 songs were able to be produced.
Training remains a vital component of TOT/Soca Village’s strategy, and their development programme has been consistently upheld over the years.
Charles praised the many ‘stalwarts’ who have remained loyal to the camp, including Herb Black, his sister Black Pearl, Lady Leen, Nadeige, and other seasoned and emerging artists among its supporters.
As TOT celebrates its 44th anniversary this year, Charles announced plans for a major event, including a “Big Show” in tribute to ‘Get Through’, a dedicated founder of the TOT unit who passed away a few years ago.
Another highlight will be a special June 20 show for children with disabilities, staged as part of the carnival season.
Charles robustly objected to how some people “degrade the artistic work” of the performers, emphasising that “people’s creative work is incredibly important. Competition only serves to differentiate the artist’s expression.”
He articulated: “Sometimes, the best song may never win a competition. At TOT/Soca Village, we are committed to moving ahead of the times, which requires us to think and act differently.”
Charles acknowledged the invaluable contributions of corporate sponsors and other supporters, whether monetary or otherwise.
Chairman of the Carnival Music Management Committee (CMMC) Claude ‘Popie’ Paul recognised the significant impact of TOT on the art form over the years and discussed the CMMC’s proposals aimed at improving the overall presentation and production roles for artists.
Sponsor representatives were present to express their support. As the evening progressed, several entertainers performed live ‘on playback’ to an appreciative audience.