THE curtain has fallen on the reign of the merry monarch, but this weekend a series of "las-lap" activities will usher out the 2025 Carnival season, until next year.
International Women’s Day (IWD) will also be in focus with a number of gender equality, health and wellness events.
Traditionally, one of the major after-Carnival events citizens as well as departing visitors look forward to annually, is the champs in concert, now known as Carnival Lagniappe – A Night with the Champs.
All the reigning champions who dominated the Carnival season, in the kings and queens competitions, steelband, soca, calypso, chutney, extempo, brass, junior monarchs, among others, will share one stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on March 8.
According to Pan Trinbago, patrons can expect an unforgettable celebration of music, rhythm, and cultural excellence.
[caption id="attachment_1142876" align="alignnone" width="1024"] National Panorama champions Republic Bank Exodus will perform at Carnival Lagniappe, Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain. - Photo by Jeff K Mayers[/caption]
“Feel the pulsating rhythms of our world-famous steel orchestras, experience the energy of soca superstars, be captivated by the artistry of calypso and chutney legends, and witness the vibrant creativity of mas kings and queens. This is Carnival’s last event, and we’re going out with a bang,” Pan Trinbago said in a release.
Soiree After the Mas
The action in south continues at the Naparima Bowl, following on Randy Glasgow's comedy show at the same venue on March 7. Songbird Vaughnette Bigford will take centre stage to cool down the Carnival temperature with an evening of cool, jazzy vibes and dancing at Soiree After the Mas on March 8.
She said this event, which begins at 5 pm, promises to be a magnificent evening when all the beautiful people say goodbye to Carnival and welcome the new jazz season.
Joining Bigford and her band will be the 3canal, and the San City Steel Orchestra.
Some light snacks will be provided, and Bigford is encouraging patrons to walk with their drinks.
“I’m excited. This event is going to be a special one.”
[caption id="attachment_1142877" align="alignnone" width="1024"] King of Carnival Curtis Eustace portrays Spirit of 'D' Gasparee Cave at Dimanche Gras, Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on March 2. - Photo by Jeff K. Mayers[/caption]
Talk Tent
Another ritual people look forward to when the Carnival is over is the witticism of Paul Keens-Douglas at his Talk Tent, where he says, Talk is Art.
This acclaimed, eloquent storyteller and social commentator will host his annual event at Queen’s Hall, St Ann's, on March 8 and 9. The Saturday show starts at 7.30 pm, while Sunday’s show begins at 6.30 pm.
In a night of clean humour and conversations about local and world events, Keens Douglas has invited entertainers David Bereaux, Short Pants, Miguel Browne, Avion Crooks, Farida Chapman and pierrot grenades, as well as special guest Seth Sylvester.
The World Laugh Festival is on at the Cent
