Five women to challenge reigning Calypso Monarch title

Four former calypso monarchs and five women are among 15 artistes selected to challenge reigning Calypso Monarch and nine-time title holder Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool as the Carnival celebrations heads towards the climax in Trinidad and Tobago next week.

The 15 contestants were chosen following Saturday’s “Calypso Fiesta” held at Skinner Park in the southern town of San Fernando.

Among the artistes making it to the final on Sunday at the Queen’s Park Savannah are former monarchs, Kurt Allen, Michael “Sugar Aloes” Osouna, Karene Asche and Sandra “Singing Sandra” Des Vignes-Millington.

The other finalists are Aron St. Louis, Alana “Lady Watchman” Sinnette-Khan, Carlos “Skatie” James, Dexter “The Stinger” Parsons, Helon Francis, Joanne “Tigress” Rowley, Michael “Protector” Legerton, Myron “Myron B” Bruce, Rondell Donawa, Selvon “Mistah Shak” and Stacey Sobers.

The judges have also named former monarch Roderick “Chuck Gordon” Gordon, as a reserve.

Among those not making the final cut is Weston “Cro Cro” Rawlins, whose tune” Belated’ takes a jab at members of the Trinidad and Tobago government, for turning their backs on him, was a crowd pleaser.