Blackness raises her hands in victory after winning the 2022-2023 St. Croix Calypso Monarch. Photo Credit: KGP/VICONSORTIUM/DIVISION OF FESTIVALS
St. Croix Calypsonians United has announced January 1 as the new date for the 2023-2024 Calypso Monarch Finals, initially set for December 27 at Festival Village. The decision comes after discussions between Calypso United and the V.I. Dept. of Tourism, Division of Festivals fell apart, leading to the event's cancellation.
The finals will now be held at the Island Center for the Performing Arts, beginning at 8:00 p.m. on the new date. The event will showcase nine calypsonians vying for the crown against reigning Queen Emogene “Blakness” Creese.
Event organizer Dean Baptiste had arrived at an impasse with the Division of Festivals, arguing that the competition should not be held at the Festival Village.
"While we faced unexpected hurdles, we are thrilled to announce the new date for the Calypso Monarch Finals," he said. "We appreciate the continued support of the St. Croix community, and we are committed to delivering a spectacular show on January 1, 2024."
Ciga Promotions has been acknowledged for their sponsorship of the event, which has been crucial in ensuring the continuity of this year's competition.
"The St. Croix Calypsonians United looks forward to welcoming the community at the Island Center for the Performing Arts on January 1, 2024, for an evening of outstanding performances and the crowning of the next Calypso Monarch," the release concludes.
