Fire Kay and Zizi emerged as standout winners in the National Secondary Schools Calypso and Soca Competition, which kicked off last week at Mindoo Phillip Park.
On Friday, June 5, the venue buzzed with excitement as performers energized the crowd, delighting enthusiastic fans and supporters from the competing secondary schools.
A total of 19 schools showcased their talent in this vibrant multi-title contest, delivering exhilarating performances characterized by well-coordinated lyrics and dynamic music.
In the Soca category, Fire Kay from Corinth Secondary School claimed the title with an electrifying rendition of “Ah Bon Ti Taytay La,” captivating both judges and audience members.
Meanwhile, the Calypso crown was awarded to Zizi from Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School, whose powerful performance of “Zizi and I” secured the school’s victory.
Winners in Each Division:
Calypso Monarch:
Winner: Sir Ira Simmons – Zizi
– 1st Runner-Up: Castries Comprehensive – Lexii
– 2nd Runner-Up: Patricia D. James – Queen Gena
– 3rd Runner-Up: Vieux Fort Comprehensive – Ti Keno
Soca Monarch:
Winner: Corinth Secondary – Fire Kay
– 1st Runner-Up: Patricia D. James – Baby T
– 2nd Runner-Up: Entrepot Secondary – Baby K
– 3rd Runner-Up: Castries Comprehensive – Ti Pima
The exceptional young performers received gifts from sponsors, while their schools were awarded cash prizes in recognition of their achievements.
In addition, participants from the National Primary Schools Calypso and Soca Competition delivered standout performances. Dugard Combined and Ave Maria Girls’ Primary emerged as highlights of this year’s Junior Calypso competition, showcasing the vibrant talents of Saint Lucia’s youngest artists.
Officials from the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) expressed their commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience filled with talent, creativity, and cultural pride during the Junior Soca and Calypso Schools Showcase.
Students from both primary and secondary schools came together at Mindoo Philip Park to celebrate Saint Lucian culture through music and performance. The CPMC emphasized the importance of initiatives like these in nurturing the next generation of artists and providing positive outlets for youth, steering them away from crime and violence.
The calypso segment featured compelling messages delivered through storytelling and social commentary. The results were as follows:
– 1st place: “Remember Me” by Mr. Personality – Dugard Combined
– 2nd place: “Las Manti La” by Ti Jean – Canon Laurie Anglican
– 3rd place: “What Should I Do” by Unique – Anglican Infant
– 4th place: “Standing Strong” by Mighty Informer – Ave Maria Girls’ Primary
The soca segment was equally captivating, enchanting both judges and the audience.
The results included:
– 1st place: “Lash Up” by Soca Storm – Ave Maria Girls’ Primary
– 2nd place: “We Ready for Di Road” by Zizi & Kiki – Carmen Rene Memorial
– 3rd place: “Big Dreams” by I-Scream – Ciceron R.C. Combined
– 4th place: “The Rain Has Nothing on Us” by Little J – Camille Henry Memorial
Additional participating schools included Morne Du Don Primary, Saltibus Combined, Gordon Walcott Memorial, Les Etangs Combined, and Delcer RC Combined.
The excitement continued on Saturday, June 6, with the inaugural Schools Panorama Competition, featuring six steelpan bands representing eight schools vying for top honors in another spectacular showcase of youth talent and creativity.
Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School took home the title in this inaugural National Schools Panorama Competition, celebrating the island’s rich culture during Junior Lucian Carnival.
Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School secured second place with a commendable performance, while Corinth Secondary School earned third position. A combined effort from Canaries Primary School and Soufrière Secondary School captured fourth place.
Other participating schools included Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School, Laborie Boys and Girls Primary School, and Dennery Primary and Secondary Schools, all contributing to a vibrant showcase of rhythm and talent across Saint Lucia.