Trinidad & Tobago: A Nation at a Crossroads
As a nation, Trinidad and Tobago finds itself grappling with fundamental questions about truth, reality, and the very essence of its identity. For years, we’ve proudly proclaimed our Carnival as “the greatest show on Earth,” a sentiment often echoed within our own borders, yet rarely reflected on the international stage. A quick search of major international news networks reveals a surprising lack of coverage for our celebrated Carnival.
If Carnival truly deserves its title, why do promoters and stakeholders consistently rely on substantial government funding for nearly every aspect of its operation? The reality is that Carnival has been undergoing a gradual transformation, evolving into an event that feels increasingly unfamiliar to many of us. The costumes, once vibrant and unique, now exhibit a striking similarity, distinguishable primarily by colour variations and price tags.
The musical landscape has also shifted. The competitive spirit of the Road March has diminished, with only a handful of songs vying for the title, and the outcome often predicted well in advance. The Panorama competition, a showcase of our national instrument, the steelpan, has lost some of its former glory. Bands are increasingly revisiting older hits, struggling to inspire participation and maintain the excitement of the competition. This raises serious questions about the quality and innovation within our music scene. You can learn more about the history of the steelpan at The Steelpan Museum.
From Savannah Spectacle to Commercial Parade
The atmosphere of Carnival Monday and Tuesday has changed, becoming more focused on trucks, bars, and DJs than on the traditional “mas” displays. Even the Savannah, once the heart of Carnival, now feels largely empty during these days. Lord Kitchener’s poignant song, “The Carnival Is Over,” seems to resonate with a growing sense of disillusionment.
Cricket Success: A Bright Spot
Amidst these cultural reflections, a beacon of national pride shines brightly: the West Indies cricket team. A perfect group stage record at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup secured their place in the Super 8s. Convincing victories over Scotland, England, Nepal, and Italy demonstrated their prowess on the field. Shai Hope’s team will now face India, Zimbabwe, and South Africa in a challenging Super 8s group.
Questioning Funding and Defining Culture
The reliance on government funding extends beyond Carnival. Organizations like TUCO, Pan Trinbago, and the NCC consistently depend on state support. This raises a critical question: if Carnival is the economic and cultural powerhouse we claim it to be, why is it so dependent on public funds?
Furthermore, a thought-provoking definition of culture, offered by George Lamming at the 1984 Conference of the Regional Committee of Caribbean Cultural and Intellectual Workers, challenges our conventional understanding. Lamming defined culture as “the means whereby men and women feed themselves, clothe and shelter themselves; the means whereby they achieve and reproduce their material existence.” This broader perspective highlights the fundamental role of culture in sustaining life itself.
Challenges and Disappointments
Recent experiences, such as the chaotic ticketing and seating arrangements at Dimanche Gras, have left many patrons feeling frustrated and disrespected. Incidents like a calypsonian’s performance being cut short during the show only add to the growing concerns about the organization and execution of this flagship event. Despite these challenges, life in Trinidad and Tobago continues, with its familiar rhythm of hustle, traffic, and daily routines.
