Please be advised that cheque distribution  for the Carnival 2017 MAS element (Junior and Senior) will commence on Tuesday April 11 to Thursday April 13, 2017from 9am to 4.00pm at the Registration Office, Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Recipients are requested to present 1 valid form of Identification.

Newtown Playboys Steel Symphony continued its winning streak to take the top position at the end of the competition in Arima last night.

Playing Austin Lyons’
“Get Something And Wave”, the Newtown-based band under the baton of Carlan Harewood impressed the adjudication panel to cop the top spot scoring a total of 292 points.   In second place was San Juan All Stars with 289 point for its performance of “Johnny” while Woodbrook Playboyz came in third with 287 points for its arrangement of “Total Disorder”.

The Grand Finals saw a total of twenty one (21) bands at the Arima Basketball Court, Arima. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Hon Minister of Community Development & Culture, Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Ret. Brigadier General Ancil Antoine, MP for D’Abadie/O’Meara and Her Worship Lisa Morris- Julien, Mayor of Arima.
Adjudicators in the Single Pan Band category were Tommy Crichlow, Rofelle Granger-Morton, Vorbin Cordice, Audley Tomothy, Brendon Moore and Mark Brewster.
This year, fifty two (52) bands went from the Preliminary Round to the Finals.
The results are as follows:-

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) invites applications from persons interested in operating vending booths at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, for the Carnival 2017 period.

1.         Vendors are asked to collect application forms from the NCC’s offices at the Queen’s Park Savannah, from Monday January 9, 2017, between 8 am to 4 pm daily.

Applicants will be required to:

1.                  Pay the stipulated concession fees-in cash- prior to occupation of the assigned booth.

2.                  Submit valid food badges, issued by the Regional Corporation for the year 2017, prior to occupation of the assigned booth.

Please be advised that completed application forms must be returned to the NCC’s Queen’s Park Savannah offices no later than 3:00pm on Friday January 13, 2017.

The Board reserves the right to refuse any application.                                                      

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago

Wednesday 10th February, 2016: The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation {TUCO} wishes to officially announce the results of the National Calypso Monarch Competition 2016.  The final round of competition was held on Sunday 07th February at the Dimanche Gras Show, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Special congratulations to the reigning Monarch Mr. Devon Seale who in his best efforts managed to dethrone Roderick “Chuck” Gordon, who held the title for two consecutive years 2014 and 2015.

Complete Results

For more information, please visit http://www.tucott.com/national-calypso-monarch-results-2016/

Click here for more info

Medium Bands

Large Bands

Trinidad East Side Symphony and Marsicans are this year’s joint National Panorama Single Pan Band Champions.

After almost seven (7) hours of excitement and excellence displayed by the all the competitors, the two (2) East bands were declared winners with a combined total of 276 points each for the Carlon Harewood arrangement of Kelvin Pope’s “Total Disorder” and Marlon White’s interpretation of Winford Devine’s “Say Say” respectively.

Coincidently, both bands tied for second place in last year’s competition.

The Grand Finals witnessed by a larger crowd than in previous years, saw twenty seven (27) bands at Skinner Park , San Fernando, vying for bragging rights.

Adjudicators in the Single Pan Band category were Kenrick Noel, Vorbin Cordice, Joanna Shortt, Bernadette Roberts, Jeanette Johnson and Michelle Dowrich.

 The second category, Small Conventional Bands, the current champions, Arima Golden Symphony, retained  their title.

The Arima band captured the top spot with their rendition of “D’ Greatest Invention” arranged by Terrance BJ Marcelle with 280 points. Second place went to Laventille Serenaders with 279 points.

Judges in this category were Damion Phillip, Corrine Soo Ping Chow, Richard Pierre, Ezra Joseph, Marceline Peters and Joslynne Sealey.

The results are as follows:-

SINGLE PAN BANDS

1.Trinidad East Side Symphony                                      Total Disorder                                                                    276

1.Marsicans                                                                       Say Say                                                                               276

3. T&T Fire Services                                                          Rebecca                                                                              275

4. Arima All Stars                                                              Ka Ka Roach                                                                       273

4. San Juan East Side Symphony                                     No No We Eh Going Home                                              273

6. T&T Defence Force                                                       Don’t Stop This Party                                                        271

7. Newtown Playboys Steel Symphony                          On The Road/Ah Come Back Home                                270

8.Uni Stars                                                                         The Jammers                                                                     267

9. Platinum                                                                        Unknown Band                                                                 263

9. Woodbrook Playboyz                                                   Free Up                                                                               263

9. Gonzales Sheikers                                                         Like Ah Boss                                                                      263

12.D’Original Woodbrook Modernaires                         On The Road                                                                      257

13. Shades of Steel                                                           No No We Eh Going Home                                               254

14. Pan Jammers                                                              Somebody                                                                          253

14. Nu Pioneers Pan Groove                                          Teaser                                                                                  253

16. Pan Stereonetts                                                         Pan In Danger                                                                     252

17. Trinidad Nostalgic                                                     Gimme More                                                                       250

SMALL CONVENTIONAL BANDS

1. Arima Golden Symphony                                    Greatest Invention                                                                  280

2.Laventille Serenaders                                            Pan Jumbie                                                                              279

3. Tornadoes                                                              Mash It Up                                                                               275

4. La Horquetta Pan Groove                                     Raising Dust                                                                             273

5. Pandemonium                                                       My House                                                                                272

5. Fascinators Pan Symphony                                  Like Ah Boss                                                                            272

7. T&TEC New East Side Dimension                        Both Ah Dem                                                                           271

8. Five Rivers Modern Symphony                            Pan In Danger                                                                         270

9. Tamana Pioneers                                                  De Mystery Band                                                                    266

10. Our Boys                                                              Gimme More                                                                          264

Come Saturday February 06th, ten (10) Medium and (10) Large Conventional Bands, will display their musical skills in what is anticipated a keenly contested event at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Starting time is 7:00 pm.

Download the Official Junior and Senior Complete Kings and Queens Results 2016

Two (2) new champions were crowned at the end of the National Junior Panorama last Sunday at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain.

Tacarigua Presbyterian and St. Joseph’s Convent, St. Joseph, topped their categories with 270 and 262 points respectively while bp Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra retained its title with points in the Primary, Secondary and 21  & Under categories respectively.

The winning selections were “Max It Up”, “Guitar Pan”, and “Calypso Music” in a competition which attracted 32 finalists among the junior steel orchestras. The keenly contested event lasted almost ten (10) hours.

Each of the categories had its own panel of judges. Adjudicators in the 21 & Under Category included Bernadette Roberts, Carlon Harewood, Kenrick Noel, Maria Achaiba, Nigel Diaz and Sherry –Ann Saunders

Among the attractions was the introduction of a “fun zone” at the western end of the North Stand.

RESULTS - PRIMARY CATEGORY

RESULTS - SECONDARY CATEGORY

Click here or image to download (2.15MB Adobe PDF)

Two South based steel orchestras will play first in their respective categories at the National Panorama Finals themed “Excellence & Excitement” carded for Saturday February 06th 2016 at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Showtime is 7:00 pm

Pan Elders of Carib Street and NLCB Fonclaire of Dottin Street, San Fernando, will perform “Me Eh Fighting For No Man” arranged by Duvone Stewart and “Bass on Fire” under the baton of Ken “Professor” Philmore” in the Medium and Large Conventional Bands respectively.

Twenty (20) bands will go through their paces before two (2) separate panels of adjudicators comprising Roger Sardinah, Lambert Phillip, Roslyn Garnes, Maria Achaiba, Martin Albino and Lorna Conyette for the Medium category with Joanne Ragbir, Stephanie Power, Cuthbert Matthews, Andy Chichester, Audley Timothy and Lennox London in the Large Band class.

Apart from the competition segments, stalwarts, Curtis Pierre, Bertrand Kellman, Damion Holder and Wallace Austin will be honored by the SteelBand Organization for their sterling contribution to the development of the steelband Movement.

The finalists and their playing position are as follows:-

MEDIUM

LARGE

All patrons attending the show will have an opportunity to win two (2) return tickets to any North American destination courtesy Caribbean Airlines.

There several incentives for those opting to take in the show from the North Stand such as an all-inclusive experience at the ticket price of $450.00 which include  local delicacies  and Angostura products. The largest crew can win an airline ticket on any of JetBlue Airways’ international destinations.

Fans and patrons will be able to text the code of their favourite bands to a number provided by CNMG to vote in the FCL Financial People’s Choice. The competing bands with the most votes in each category will collect $10,000.. Voting begins at 12 noon on Friday 5th February 2016.

Tickets are priced at Grand Stand Special Reserved $800., Grand Stand General  East & West Central $500. Grand Stand East & West Wings $400. with North Stand $450. All-Inclusive and are available at the advertised outlets and at the Ticket Booth, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain.

Please be advised that a decision was taken at the Panorama Management Committee (PMC) Meeting re the above captioned requesting photographers to desist from taking their “shots/photographs” from within the band.

Firstly, it’s a distraction to the players and secondly it’s difficult or in most instances their images (photographers) cannot be deleted/edited.

While we appreciate each media house would like to “capture the moment”, we are asking you to assist us by instructing your photographic team to conform to the request and cooperate with us to ensure a more professional end product (DVDs etc.)

As a guide…..There will be visible markings on the stage indicating the positions from which the photographers can take their “shots”.

We are therefore asking you to relay this information to your assigned photographers.

It should be noted that this request applies to freelancers and sponsored bands photographers/videographers and our very own website personnel.

Pan Trinbago apologizes for the miscommunication at the Panorama Semi Finals and thanks you for your usual cooperation.  Should you request additional information, feel free to contact the undersigned.

Regards,

Angela A. Fox
(868 788 1833)
Media/Communication/Panorama Management Committee

The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation {TUCO} wishes to officially announce the names of the eleven (11) finalists for the National Calypso Monarch Competition 2016.

These artistes would be competing in attempt to dethrone the Reigning Calypso Monarch, Roderick Gordon more popularly known as “Chuck Gordon”.

The final round of the competition will be held on Sunday 7th February at the Dimanche Gras Show, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain commencing at 7:00 PM.

In Alphabetical Order:
NAME

1. CARLOS JAMES - SKATIE
2. DEVON SEALE
3. DR. HOLLIS LIVERPOOL- CHALKDUST
4. HEATHER MAC INTOSH
5. HELON FRANCIS
6. KARENE ASCHE
7. MARSHA CLIFTON - LADY ADANNA
8. SELVON NOEL- MISTAH SHAK
9. WINSTON PETERS- GYPSY
10. VICTORIA COOPER -QUEEN VICTORIA
11. WESTON RAWLINS - CRO CRO

Reserve:

NAME

BRIAN LONDON

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago is pleased to announce the results of the preliminary round of the Carnival 2016 Junior Kings and Queens Individuals Competition that took place on Sunday, January 31st at Adam Smith Square, Woodbrook.

The results are as follows:

Junior King of Carnival 2016 Results

Junior Queen of Carnival 2016 Results

Port of Spain, Trinidad, Friday, January 29, 2016: The 15 finalists for both the Carnival Kings and Queens Finals 2016 have been selected following the preliminary round on Thursday, January 28 at the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah.

They are:

Queen’s Competition:

1.      Gloria Dallsingh – "Artemisia" D Warrior Queen

2.      Laura Rampersad – "Goddess Of Victory"

3.      Savitri Holassie – “Mystical Goddess Of Light & Life”

4.      Stephanie Kanhai – “The Virgin Queen”

5.      Kerina Badal – “Hialeah- The Mystical Fantasy Of A Sun Dancer”

6.      Roxanne Omalo – "Medusa" The Last Gaze

7.      Alendra Bailey – “D Bailey Dynasty”

8.      Eyika  Luby – “Pink Orchid Mantis”

9.      Peola Marchan – “Yacahuna  The Goddess Of Tuloc She Who Dwells In The Great Volcano”

10.  Charmaine Emile – “The Aztec Menace”

11.  Leslie Ann Boisselle – “A Musical Ensemble In D Pan Yard”

12.  Donna Phillip-Forde – “Gloriana The Virgin O Queen”

13.  Ruth Adams-Mendez – “Lady Africa”

14.  Pamela Gordon – “Colours Of Life- Love, Joy, Happiness”

15.  Lisa Peters – “Birds In Paradise”

In the Kings Competition, the top 15 were:

1.      Wade Madray – “Quecha The Spirit Of Spring”

2.      Marlon Rampersad – “Drums Of War"

3.      Ted Eustace – “Pshedelic Nightmares”

4.      Jha-Whan Thomas – “The Dying Swan - Ras Nijinsky In Drag As Pavlova”

5.      Curtis Eustace – “Demonato  Prince Of D Forbidden”

6.      Earl Beckles – “Spirit Of The Rainforest Guardian”

7.      Fareid Carvalho – “Guardian Of The Sun”

8.      Lionel Jagessar Jr – Howakan “The Eternal Guardian Of The Hunt”

9.      Christopher Saldenha – “Gladstone Guardian”

10.  Roland St. George – “Hocus Pocus”

11.  Kelly Sheldon Peters – “Who The Cap Fit”

12.  Ronald Blaize – “Bois In Moruga”

13.  Nicholas Britto – “Cane On Fire "Camboulay"

14.  Glenn Dave Lakhan –  “Night Of The  Owling Creature”

15.  Keston Benthum – “Elfurdrakos”

The finals are set to take place on Tuesday, February 2 at the Grand Stand at the Queen’s Park Savannah. For more information on this, tickets, and the total scorecard, please visit the National Carnival Commission online at ncctt.org.  For Full Results please click here

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago (NCC) is pleased to announce the results of the Preliminary round of the Carnival 2016 Kings & Queens Competitions, which took place on Thursday January 28, 2016 at the Grandstand, Queen's Park Savannah.

The sounds of twenty seven (27) steelbands will resound at Skinner Park, San Fernando, on Thursday 4th February 2016 as the Petrotrin Single and Small Bands Finals get underway.

Showtime is 6:00pm. Tickets are $100.

The two defending champions, San Juan East Side Symphony and Arima Golden Symphony, are going all out to retain their titles, having topped their respective categories. The former under the baton of maestro Duvone Stewart amassed 276 points for their rendition of Chris Tambu Herbert’s “No No We Eh Going Home” while Arima Golden Symphony earned 267 points for “D’Greatest Invention” as arranged by Terrence BJ Marcelle.

Seventeen (17) Single Pan Bands and ten (10) Small Conventional Bands will be marked on the basis of a maximum of 100 points.  The adjudication criteria are Arrangement (40), General Performance (40), Tone (10) and Rhythm (10) points. Six (6) Judges will officiate.

Patrons attending this event will have an opportunity to win two (2) return tickets to any North American Caribbean Airlines destination. Winners in the Single Pan category will receive $200,000. and the Pan Trinbago Inc. Trophy while that in the Small Band will collect $400,000. and the bp Challenge Trophy.

The following is order of appearance:-

SINGLE PAN BANDS

SMALL CONVENTIONAL BANDS FINALISTS

The results of the National Panorama Semi Finals have been released by Pan Trinbago.

Yesterday Sunday saw fifty-one (51) steel orchestras of which fourteen (14) were from the sister isle performing their tunes of choice before three (3) individual panels of judges.

After almost seventeen hours of keen music rivalry, the finalists were announced in the wee hours of Monday morning.

Ten bands from each category will compete in two Grand Finals (Single & Small) at Skinner Park, San Fernando on Thursday February 4th, and the Medium & Large Conventional Bands at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on Saturday February 6th, respectively.

SMALL

MEDIUM

LARGE

President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Anthony Carmona is on hand at the Pan Semi-Finals. Here he is greeted by NCC Chairman, Kenneth De Silva, (centre) and PanTrinbago President, Keith Diaz.

NCC Chairman, Kenneth De Silva (left) and Pan Trinbago President, Keith Diaz.

Thirteen (13) steel orchestras from Tobago have qualified for the National Panorama Semi Finals carded for this weekend.

Out of a total of thirty four (34) bands in the Small and Medium categories, ten (10) qualified from Tobago, with two Single Pan Bands and one Large Conventional Band making the final cut.

The semi-final round of the Single Pan Band takes place on Friday January 22nd opposite Victoria Square, Port of Spain, with the Small, Medium and Large Bands on Sunday 24th January at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Starting time for the latter is 9:00 am.

This year, a decision was taken to revert to judging the three Conventional Bands’ categories on the same day. In all, a total of fifty one (51) steel bands will face three adjudication panels for places in the Grand Finals.

Taking top spots in the Semi Final rounds were Tornadoes (Small) and Pan Elders (Medium) with “Mash it Up” and “Me Eh Fighting For No Man” respectively.

The following is the Small Band and Medium Conventional Semi Finalists.

SMALL

MEDIUM

The National Panorama Single Pan Bands Semi Finals takes the spotlight on Friday evening as thirty two (32) steelbands vie for sixteen (16) coveted places in the Grand Finals.

“Excitement and Excellence” are the watch words of this year’s event. The Semi-Finals is carded for Friday January 22nd, in front of Pan Trinbago’s Head Office, Park Street, Port of Spain, opposite Victoria Square, from 7:00 pm. Patrons can view the competition at Victoria Square, Duke Street, Port of Spain. Cost of the Bleachers tickets is $50.

The following is the order of appearance:-

Port of Spain, Trinidad, Tuesday January, 19 2016: Our Soul Turned Inside Out, the groundbreaking feature length documentary from the Carnival Institute of Trinidad and Tobago (CITT) will be shown at the Digicel IMAX Theatre, starting on January 20 at 7 pm, as part of the list of events being held at this year’s Carnival Culture Week.

The film is scheduled to show at the following times at IMAX:

• January 20th to 22nd – Showtime 7 pm
• January 23rd, 24th, 28th, and 30th - Showtime 5 pm
• And February 1st and 3rd – Showtime 5 pm

Tickets for the showings are $50 and are available at the Digicel IMAX box office.

The National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago will also host a special screening on Wednesday January 20, at the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce Building, Columbus Circle, Westmoorings, from 5 pm to 7 pm.

This screening is free and open to the public, and also features a Q and A session with the film’s screenwriter, and CITT Head, Dr. Kim Johnson.

The film, which was directed by Mary-Ann Brailey, featured at last year’s Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival 2015 lineup, and has been described as “A gripping documentary on some of the old traditions of Trinidad Carnival, and where it came from; the side that often goes unnoticed, a darker side.”

In uncovering the storied and violent origins of our Carnival traditions, Our Soul Turned Inside Out brings magic to the screen as it presents never-before seen images, and takes an in-depth look at how slavery and emancipation, as well as other cultural influences, (French Creole mixed with African and Indian practices) helped shape some of our beloved traditional carnival characters, including: Jab Jab, Blue Devils and Stick Fighters.

For more information, please visit the NCC website, the official NCC and CITT Facebook pages, or call the Institute at 625-6434.

Click here or image for more info

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) advises of the following access limitations that will be in effect for all Carnival events at the North Stand of the Queen's Park Savannah for Carnival 2016.

These restrictions are necessary to ensure the health and safety of our patrons at events. They are as follows:

• The maximum party cooler size allowed is 30 3/8" long x 17 1/4" high x 17 3/8" wide (metric). Coolers larger than this will not be allowed into the North Stand. 
• Patrons will not be allowed to cordon off/barricade or to erect any temporary edifice to the stand.
• Only patrons with valid tickets will be allowed entry.
• The Stand is limited to a maximum capacity of 7000 persons. Overcrowding will not be allowed.

We thank all patrons for their cooperation in this matter and we look forward to your support. For more information, persons are invited to contact the Commission at 622-1670/1718.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) wishes to advise the public that accreditation for all media personnel/freelancers/researchers to all NCC-related Carnival 2016 events commenced on Wednesday January 13, 2016.

Interested persons are asked to visit the NCC Accreditation Secretariat Office, at the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah, between the hours of 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday, where they can collect forms.

Alternatively, official forms can be downloaded via the NCC’s website (ncctt.org) or by following the link from the official Facebook page, (National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago – NCC).

For additional information, please contact the Secretariat at 622-1670/1718 ext. 2562 or email @ info@ncctt.org.

Media Accreditation Carnival - Application Form 2016 (400KB Adobe PDF)

Defending Champions, San Juan East Side Symphony, has once again topped the National Panorama Single Pan Bands Preliminaries with 265 points.

The San Juan East Side based steelband under the baton of Duvone Stewart played the Christopher Tambu Herbert’s composition, “No No We Eh Going Home”.

Coming in second with 262 points is Trinidad East Side Symphony with their rendition of Kelvin Pope’s “Total Disorder”. They tied with T&T Defence Force whose tune of choice was “Don’t Stop This Party” composed and sung by Antiguan Rupert Philo known in the calypso world as Swallow.

There was a three-way tie for the fourth place between Arima All Stars, Woodbrook Playboyz and Gonzales Sheikers. They amassed a total of 258 for their arrangement of “Kaka Roach”, “Free Up”, and “Like Ah Boss” respectively.

Platinum, the all -female competitor came in at position seven along with Pan Jammers.

There were several two, three, four and five-way ties among the qualifiers. At the end of the exercise, thirty two (32) bands made it to the Semi Finals which will take place in front of Pan Trinbago’s Head Office, Park Street, Port of Spain, opposite Victoria Square. Admission is free.
A total of sixty two (62) Single Pan Bands performed their tune of choice before the panel of judges over a period of four (4) days at zonal venues in Trinidad & Tobago.  

Two (2) Tobago based bands are in the running ie Hope Pan Groovers and Metro Stars.
Representatives of each of the participating bands were invited to witness the opening of the score sheets earlier today Tuesday at City Hall Auditorium, Port of Spain.

The following is the list of the semi-finalists:-

Port of Spain, Trinidad: January 11, 2016: Long time ex-officio Mas judge, Myrtle Bernard, was recently honoured at the National Carnival Commission’s Mas Adjudication Workshop, held at the NCC’s VIP Lounge at the Queen’s Park Savannah on Saturday, January 9.

Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. The Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, and NCC Chairman, Kenneth De Silva were on hand during the workshop to present Bernard with her tokens of appreciation.

One of the main architects of the adjudication process, Bernard has been an influential figure, having adjudicated for Carnival for more than 30 years, and serving as Chief Judge for more than 10 years. Described as hardworking and focussed, she spent several decades mentoring other judges, and providing critical advice to Carnival stakeholders across the country.

Saturday’s adjudication workshop was specially designed to improve judging competencies, and in so doing, promote an even higher quality of Mas presentations for Carnival 2016.

Chairman De Silva said, “We are very pleased to have brought this programme to life once again. It has a special place in our hearts, and, I can well imagine, a special place in the hearts of the Carnival community.”

“It is crucial that we keep getting the good things right, and judging mas, fairly and unbiased is a major part of that. Your responsibility is very important as well as your character, integrity and skills are critical to the process of adjudication,” he added.

“And it is always good when we can look back, and remember the work and energy of those who have been integral in us moving forward, people like Myrtle Bernard,” De Silva said.

This year, the NCC warmly welcomed over 100 participants, of which several were first-time judges. All were coached by instructors Octavia Noel, Dominic Romain, Claudette Sinnette, Dr. Lester Efebo Wilkinson, among others, on a variety of relevant topics, including "Review of the Judging Processes, Rules and Procedures”, and “Interpretation of Criteria and Carnival Arts as it pertains to Culture.”

Minister and M. Bernard - “Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts Dr. the Honorable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly (right) presents ex-officio Mas judge Myrtle Bernard with a token of appreciation for outstanding contribution to the Carnival Arts Industry, during the Adjudication workshop at the VIP Lounge, QPS on Saturday January 9, 2016.

Presenter Claudette Sinnette leads off her presentation at the adjudication workshop.

A cross section of the audience.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago (NCC) has commenced registration for the Mas element of Carnival 2016, which runs from January 4 to 29, 2016.

Registration can be done online (www.ncctt.org) or alternatively through the Mas Secretariat at the Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain.

Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. the Honorable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly and NCC Officials, including Chairman Kenneth De Silva and CEO Michael Guyadeen visit the QPS to inspect the readiness of the facilitates in preparation for Carnival 2016 celebrations.

Ten (10) steelbands will face the panel of adjudications when Pan Trinbago South Central Region stages the National Panorama Prelims (Single Pan Bands) on Saturday 09th January 2016 at Skinner Park, San Fernando, from 8:00pm. Admission is $60. on the day of the event.

First on stage is Tiger Tanks Fyzabad 4th Dimension led by Joseph Findley.  For the competition, they have elected to play the Austin Lyons’ composition “Get Something And Wave” with New Age Trendsetters of Chaguanas in the final position with another Superblue selection, “Wine on Something”.

In addition to Superblue, other favourites include works from the repertoire of  Christopher “Tambu” Herbert with two (2) plays, followed by Aldywn “Kitchener” Roberts, Darryl “Farmer Nappy” Henry, Rupert “Swallow” Philo, Winston “Shadow” Bailey, Machel Montano (2016) and  Neil “Iwer” George (2016), with one each.

The following is the order of appearance:-

The Prelims of the Small & Medium Conventional Bands in the Region will take place on Sunday 17th January at the same venue, Skinner Park, San Fernando. Show time is 4:00 pm.  Tickets cost $75.00

“Excitement and Excellence ‘ it will be as the Eastern Region hosts the National Single Pan Panorama Preliminaries on Sunday January 10th 2016  at the Arima Velodrome, Arima, from 5:00 pm.

Twenty one (21) bands will perform before the judges’ panel in a bid to secure places in the semi final round which will be held in front Pan Trinbago Head Office, opposite Victoria Square, Park Street, Port  of Spain, on January 22nd 2016, in Competition starts at 7:00 pm. The event is free to the public.

Steelbands’ selections range from traditional calypso, soca, oldies and goldies, power and groovy soca with compositions penned by Winsford Devine with the most plays, closely followed by Austin Lyons aka Superblue. Caribbean artistes in Biggie Irie and Becket  also have songs in the mix.

Defending champion, San Juan East Side Symphony, will play in position 13.  The San Juan based steelband will once again be under the baton of maestro Duvone Stewart with his arrangement of Christopher “Tambu” Herbert’s “ No No We Eh Going Home”.

The complete list of competitors, their selections and tuners is listed below:

Conventional Bands – Small and Medium categories-  in the Eastern Region will have their moment of glory on Friday January 15th 2016 at the Arima Velodrome, Arima, from 6:00 pm. Tickets cost $75.00

Panorama 2016 , Pan Trinbago’s signal event, has officially started with the National Single Pan Bands category.

Come Friday January 09th 2016,   twenty nine (29)   bands in the Northern Region will face the judges as they perform their tune of choice at The Paddock, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, from 6:00 pm. Tickets are priced at $60.

First off the starting block is “the new kid on the block, Newtown Playboys Steel Symphony with their rendition of Ronnie McIntosh’s “On The Road” arranged by Seion Gomez.

Competitors in the main have chosen selections from the nineties such as ”Carnival Baby” (Aldwyn Roberts), “Doh Rock It So” (Winsford Devine), “Don’t Stop This Party”” (Rupert Philo), “Rebecca” (Austin Lyons), “The Will” (Owen Reyes Johnson), “Johnny” (Gary Dore/Robin Imanshah), “The Party Hot, Hot” (Neil Iwer George), “Ra Ti Ray” (Dennis Franklyn Williams), Marlyn –Ash Wednesday Jail” (Hollis Liverpool),  and “Party Time” (Errol Ballantyne).

Listed below is the order that the bands will perform.

For more info please click on the links below to download.

Bands Rules Juniors 2016 (226KB Adobe PDF)
Bands Rules Seniors 2016 (253KB Adobe PDF)
Individuals Rules Juniors 2016 (139KB Adobe PDF)
Individuals Rules Seniors 2016 (232KB Adobe PDF)
Kings and Queens Rules Juniors 2016 (142KB Adobe PDF)
Kings and Queens Rules Seniors 2016 (160KB Adobe PDF)
Nostalgia Rules 2016 (222KB Adobe PDF)

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) cordially invites the media to attend and cover the official tour of the NCC Queen’s Park Savannah facilities; including the Grand Stand, the in-progress North Stand, and environs, by the Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. The Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly.

The tour takes place on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 4:00 pm, following a brief informal opening ceremony at the NCC VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah.

We kindly ask that all media arrive by 3.45pm pm to allow adequate setting up time.

Should you require additional information, or to confirm attendance, please feel free to contact Kevon Gervais@ 744-5951 or k.gervais@ncctt.org

Carnival 2016

Mas Registration Dates

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) is responsible for the management of the Mas element of Carnival 2016 and all participants MUST register with the NCC for their respective competitions.

Registration is FREE and runs from Monday January 4, 2016 to January 29, 2016. Registration can bedone online (www.nccregistrations.com) or alternatively through the Mas Secretariat at the Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain.

For more info view our rules

JUNIORS

SENIORS

For additional information or any queries, please contact the Mas Secretariat at 622-1670/1718 ext. 2554, email us at info@ncctt.org or visit us at the Mas Secretariat, Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah, between hours of 9:00am to 4:00pm (Monday to Saturday). 

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago

Invitation to Carnival Mas Adjudicators

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) invites applications to register from qualified and experienced persons interested in adjudicating the Mas element of Carnival, including the Parade of the Bands, Kings & Queens etc.

In order to be considered for the selection panel, interested persons must: Have at least 3 years’ experience in adjudicating creative industry initiatives and must be familiar with the rules and regulations that govern Carnival/creative events.

2. Demonstrate the highest levels of discipline, maturity, flexibility and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of the Carnival industry, and is willing to work late hours during the Carnival season.

3. Possesses strong interpersonal, communication and networking skills with ability to work under pressure while maintaining a professional approach.

Interested persons are asked to complete an Application form by January 5, 2016 and submit to "The Mas Secretariat- Mas Adjudicators", Grandstand, Queen's Park Savannah, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Forms are available online at www.ncctt.org or at the Mas Secretariat's Office. 

Unsuitable applications will not be acknowledged.

VENDING NOTICE FOR CARNIVAL 2016

Restrictions to Vending in the Queen's Park Savannah and Environs

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) advises the general public that Vending in the Queen's Park Savannah and environs will be restricted from midnight Sunday January 17, 2016 to midnight Tuesday February 9, 2016.

Only vendors who are approved, accredited and assigned to specific locations by the NCC will be allowed to ply their trade in the Queen's Park Savannah and environs during the period referred to above.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago

Port of Spain, Trinidad, December 22, 2015: The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) has announced that registration for Carnival 2016 will commence on Monday January 4, 2016.

The change of date is to ensure that the registration process is effectively managed and that there is proper oversight of rules, regulations, and other administrative processes.

All interested participants are asked to visit the NCC’s website at ncctt.org to download the official registration forms for the following competitions: Junior and Senior competitions, Individual competitions, Junior and Senior Parade of the Bands, J’ouvert and Traditional Carnival (Nostalgia).

Alternatively, interested participants can collect official registration forms at the NCC Offices at the Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah (QPS), Port of Spain, Monday to Saturday (except Sundays and Public Holidays) between 9:00am to 4:00pm.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, December 14, 2015: The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) wishes to announce that the Commission has resumed direct management of the Mas element of Carnival 2016, which includes the Junior and Senior competitions, Individual competitions, Junior and Senior Parade of the Bands, J’ouvert and Traditional Carnival (Nostalgia). All participants must now register with the NCC for their respective competitions.

Registration for all competitive and non-competitive bands is free and will open on Monday December 21, 2015, and runs until January 29, 2016.

Registration forms are available for free downloaded at ncctt.org, and are also available at the NCC Offices at the Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah (QPS), Port of Spain, between hours of 9:00am to 4:00pm. All forms must be completed, signed and delivered to the QPS office.

As Carnival 2016 draws near, further information will be provided on the Competition rules and regulations, revised parade routes as well as on all other matters that impact on Carnival 2016.

The NCC wishes to thank the Mas fraternity, Special Interest Groups and other stakeholders for their continued collaboration and support.

Let us have a safe and enjoyable Carnival.

‘ONE ROAD, ONE STAGE, ONE PEOPLE”

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) invites applications from persons interested in operating vending booths at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain during the Carnival 2016 celebrations.

1. Interested persons are asked to collect application forms from the NCC’s offices at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, from Monday December 14, 2015, between 8.00am to 4.00pm daily.
2. Successful applicants will be required to pay the stipulated concession fees - in cash, prior to occupation of the assigned booth.
3. Successful applicants must produce valid food badges, issued by the local Health Authority for the year 2016, to the NCC prior to occupation of the assigned booth.
4. Completed application forms must be returned to the NCC, at Queen’s Park Savannah Port of Spain, not later than 3:00p.m. on Monday 21st  December 2015.
5. The Board reserves the right to refuse any application.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, Thursday, November 12, 2015: The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) and the National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited (NEDCO) recently completed their successful workshop series on November 5, 2015 at the NEDCO’s offices in Barataria.

Several participants from the Carnival industry, including Mas makers, food vendors, and arts and crafts professionals, benefited from the intensive two-day training session that focussed on, inter alia, building financial management capacity within their businesses. Led by NEDCO, they learned of cutting edge strategies and practices about Costing and Pricing, Record Keeping and Cash Management, and Preparing Financial Statements.

Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Michael Guyadeen said that such support had been long in coming and would do a great deal in augmenting the local Carnival industry.

“As the backbone of the Carnival industry, you need to be strengthened, supported, and empowered. What we offer you today will only be surpassed by what you make of it, by the techniques you actually use, and the way you incorporate them into your day-to-day operations,” Guyadeen said.

The workshop series brings to a close for the year, a sustained effort by both the NCC and NEDCO to holistically empower the Carnival industry, which started following the signing of a memorandum of understanding in May 2015. In October, NCC also facilitated another workshop for the Carnival community that shared tips on Customer Service.

(From left to right) Michael Guyadeen, CEO, NCC, Deon Grandison, Training Consultant, NEDCO, and Adwin Cox – Head of ETIIC (Entrepreneurial Training Institute and Incubation Centre)

Deon Grandison, Training Consultant, NEDCO (centre) reviews and discusses key material with (far left) George Sambrano – TUCO

NDeon Grandison, Training Consultant (3rd from left) poses for a group shot with (from left to right) : Anthony Johnson – TUCO, George Sambrano – TUCO, Nola Daniel – T&T Arts and Handicraft Association, Emerita Churche – Diego Martin Carnival Committee, Ruby Clarke - T&T Arts and Handicraft Association, Verdine Edwards – Manzanilla Regional Carnival Committee.
(Back row: from left to right) Patricia Phillip – Diego Martin Carnival Committee, Juliet Laveau – De Carnival Entrepreneurs Association, Veronica Patrick - De Carnival Entrepreneurs Association, and Calvin Gumbs – Friends Vendors Association.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, November 2, 2015: The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) proudly welcomes the recent appointments of Chair, Kenneth De Silva, Deputy Chair, Ainsworth Mohammed, and a new Board of Commissioners following the official announcement from the Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. the Honourable Nyan-Gadsby-Dolly.

The Minister distributed the instruments of appointment during an informal ceremony at the Ministry’s offices at Nicholas Towers, Independence Square, Port of Spain, on Friday, October 30.

The Board’s members comprise a wealth of expertise across a variety of fields including Media, Accounting, Tourism, and Culture. New to the NCC Board are: Darian Marcelle, Jaqueline Springer-Dillon, Sharmaine Singh and Arshaad K. Ali.

Keith Diaz and Lutalo Masimba – Presidents of Pan Trinbago, and the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) respectively – have resumed their positions on the Board as their two-year terms are still active.

In commenting on the recent appointments, Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Michael Guyadeen said, “We look forward to meeting and working with our new Chair, Deputy Chair, and Board of Commissioners, as we have with all previous Chairs and Boards.”

“Our focus, as an organisation, remains on preparations for Carnival 2016, the celebration of our 25th anniversary of serving the people of this proud nation, and on deepening and strengthening that focus to make our sector one that is economically and culturally viable for the future,” Guyadeen said.

The Minister will appoint a representative of the Carnival Band community in the near future.

Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. The Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly congratulates recently appointed NCC Chairman, Kenneth De Silva. Looking on (from left to right) are Deputy Chairman, NCC, Ainsworth Mohammed; Permanent Secretary Vidiah Ramkhelawan; Permanent Secretary, Victor Jones; and Michael Guyadeen, CEO, NCC.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, October 28, 2015: The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) hosted several members of the local Carnival community, including Mas makers, food vendors, and arts and crafts professionals, to a workshop on Customer Service, at the NCC VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah on October 27, 2015.

The workshop, organised and led by NCC Strategy and Business Development Manager, Dr. Mareba Scott, offered participants proven strategies on the subject, including “Defining and Understanding Customer Service”, “Dealing with Customer Challenges and Conflict”, “Service vs. Product” and the “Importance of Customer Service”.

Dr. Scott guided the participants in group activities and presentations; providing insight into some of the challenges, as well as keys to success and effective communication. All participants were awarded certificates of participation in recognition of their achievements on the day.

Commenting on the success of Tuesday’s workshop Dr. Scott said, “The oral and written feedback from the participants was extremely positive. Participants felt that the training was better than expected and look forward to future training programmes from the NCC in order to improve their businesses.”

In his feature remarks, Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Michael Guyadeen shared his organisation’s vision behind hosting the programme, saying that such support had been long in coming and would do a great deal in augmenting the local Carnival industry.

“As the backbone of the Carnival industry, you need to be strengthened, supported, and empowered. What we offer you today will only be surpassed by what you make of it, by the techniques you actually use, and the way you incorporate them into your day-to-day operations,” Guyadeen said.

He added, “As one of our country’s most viable and sustainable businesses, Carnival has to be managed properly, and given room to grow and develop. And that growth and development has to begin with customer service excellence training.”

The workshop comes as part of the NCC’s ongoing drive toward the development of Carnival from a one-off event to a yearlong sustainable industry, and arose out of the work of NCC's Carnival Stakeholders' Needs Assessment Survey and the recommendations arising out of that report.

Dr. Scott and Ms. Mars – Dr. Mareba Scott, Manager, Strategy and Business Development, NCC (far right) and Sarah Adina Mars (left), Trinidad and Tobago Arts and Handicraft Association

CEO at the lectern – Michael Guyadeen, CEO, NCC delivers the feature address as Dr. Scott looks on.

CEO and Mr. Osborne – Michael Guyadeen, CEO, NCC (left) presents a certificate of participation to a proud Stephen Ancil Osborne of the Diego Martin Carnival Committee.

A wonderful exhibition on now until this Friday 30th October, 2015 at the National Museum and Art Gallery featuring the work of participants of the Mentoring by the Masters programme under the direction of master wire bender Narcenio 'Senor' Gomez.

1. The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) from qualified and experienced local companies/individuals to make submissions to undertake the following proposed service for Carnival 2016:
   The Production of the Dimanche Gras Show at the Queen’s Park Savannah
2. Interested companies/individuals must obtain the comprehensive duties and responsibilities expected for the service outlined in the Terms and Conditions by contacting the Secretary, Tenders Committee via email at tenderssecretary@ncctt.org from October 19th, 2015.
3. The NCC will arrange a site visit to the locations for interested proposers on a date to be advised.
4. The required mandatory documents to be submitted include the following:
   • Certificate of Registration, Incorporation Certificate
   • Statutory Requirements i.e. valid VAT, NIS and Income Tax Certificate and Annual Return (if applicable)
   • Written description of the Proposer, including company/individual background
   • Organisational Chart of all personnel to be involved in contract
   • Curriculum Vitae of key human resources
   • Three (3) references from major clients
   • Insurance Certificates
5. Companies/individuals invited to submit proposals shall bear all costs associated with submission.
6. All proposals must be enclosed in sealed envelope addressed to the “Secretary, Tenders Committee, National Carnival Commission” and deposited in the APPROPRIATE box, located in the Reception area of the NCC Head Office, 11 St. Clair Avenue, St. Clair. The date and time of the submission by the Proposer will be logged by the NCC receptionist. The deadline for submission must be no later than 3:00 pm on November 6, 2015.
7. NCC reserves the right to reject any or all proposals for failure to comply with any mandatory requirements and the right to discontinue the request for Expressions of Interest.
8. Only shortlisted companies/individuals would be contacted.
9. This EOI is a non-binding document. The NCC does not make any representations or provide any undertakings to interested companies/individuals other than an invitation to submit an Expression of Interest. No contractual obligation shall arise from the process until a formal contract is executed by the NCC and the successful proposer.

Click here to download (124KB Adobe PDF)

Port of Spain, Trinidad, Monday, September 14, 2015: The National Carnival Commission (NCC) congratulates Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Dr. The Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly on her appointment to the Cabinet of Trinidad and Tobago. The NCC also takes the opportunity to congratulate the newly appointed Prime Minister, Dr. The Honourable Keith Rowley and the recently appointed Cabinet.

As the organisation chiefly responsible for the regulation, coordination and conduct of all Carnival activities throughout the country, held under the aegis of the Government, the NCC acts on its responsibility to work equitably with all its stakeholders and special interest groups in the pursuit of developing Carnival as a viable enterprise for the future.

For the past two decades, the NCC has successfully worked together with the line ministry to provide for, and preserve the various artistic and cultural segments that comprise Carnival; at each step of the way, maintaining the focus on transforming Carnival from a one-off event into a sustainable year-long industry.

Considering the importance of the existing relationship with the line ministry, the NCC is convinced that during Dr. Gadsby-Dolly’s tenure, this relationship will continue to deepen even further.

As the organisation enters its 25th anniversary of service to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, it welcomes the opportunity, under the auspices of Dr. Gadsby-Dolly, to continue the ongoing work empowering various national communities, providing the necessary leadership and financial resources, and encouraging them to celebrate Carnival in their individual ways.

Going forward, the NCC remains committed to working with Dr. Gadsby-Dolly, and the new government as it has with all previous governments.

The NCC would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work and contribution of the former Minister, Dr. The Honourable Lincoln Douglas, as well as former Prime Minister, the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

The NCC thanks them for their years of service and wishes them well in their future endeavours.

Click here to download (7.54MB Adobe PDF)

Launch of Carnival 2016 - Speaking Remarks (L  Pouchet)

Good afternoon, welcome, and thank you all again for joining us for our media launch for Carnival 2016. Later this year, in October/November, the NCC will also host a grand launch of carnival 2016 for all our stakeholders.

Read More (80.02KB Adobe PDF)

Media Launch - CEO Remarks (M Guyadeen)

Good afternoon.

As the Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, I am pleased to welcome you to our media launch for the start of the Carnival 2016 Season.

Read More (67.47KB Adobe PDF)

Click image or here to download

Port of Spain, Trinidad, July 14, 2015: The Association of Caribbean States (ACS) and the Caribbean House co-hosted the second meeting of the Caribbean Carnival Network during the 35th Festival of the Caribbean in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, from July 3-9.

The Caribbean Carnival Network seeks to promote the sharing of Carnival visions, strategies, experiences, between nations across the entire region. This year’s theme was, “The Caribbean that Unites Us.”

The National Carnival Commission (NCC) represented Trinidad and Tobago at the international colloquium that comprised a host of other Network member countries including Cuba, Grenada, Bahamas, Haiti, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Panama and Martinique.

Several delegates from the various countries presented their Carnival practices, in addition to challenges to, and opportunities for growth. 

Dr. Mareba Scott, Manager, Strategy and Business Development, National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) presented a comprehensive discussion on the role of the NCC, the social and economic value of Carnival to the T&T Economy, the facilitative business environment, and the sub-sectors of the Carnival industry.

Commenting on the Network, Dr. Scott said, “The purpose of the Caribbean Carnival Network is to create a primary space and mechanism for meetings, concerted action, consensus, innovation, and joint practices of the international community,”

“As one of our country’s most viable and sustainable businesses, Carnival has to be managed properly and given room to grow and develop. The need to create a formalised, well-integrated economic and social network is a pressing need and a major priority of the National Carnival Commission,” she added.

The Festival of the Caribbean was dedicated to the 500th anniversary of the city of Santiago de Cuba and took place ahead of Santiago de Cuba's Carnival celebrations from July 20- 27th.

Dr. Mareba Scott, Manager, Strategy and Business Development, NCC (4th from right) shares a moment with delegates of the Caribbean Carnival Network at the colloquium.

Dr. Mareba Scott, Manager, Strategy and Business Development, NCC presents a token of appreciation to Director of Caribbean House. Dr. Orlando Verges Martinez.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, June 29, 2015: In a prelude to its July 22 launch of the Carnival 2016 season, the National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) will commemorate the traditional aspects of the national festival with the celebration of the first ever “31 Days of Traditional Carnival Characters.”

Every day this July, the NCC will post engaging pictures and bios of traditional Carnival characters on its website (www.ncctt.org) and on its official social media pages – Facebook and Instagram.

Commenting on the recent development, NCC Chair, Lorraine Pouchet said, “It is important that we, as a people, celebrate and promote the traditional aspects of our festival.”

"Insofar as the NCC strives to do this regularly, guided by our mandate to create sustainability within the season while preserving our cultural identity, we know that our organisation must play an even more active role in awakening the public’s love for traditional characters; especially within the younger ones – the future of our nation.”

All July, the NCC will post pictures and bios of well-known traditional carnival characters like Dame Lorraine, the Midnight Robber, Moko Jumbie, Pierrot Grenade, Fancy Indians, and Sailor Mas. There will also be posts on some of the lesser known characters like the Bats, Minstrels, Bookman, and Baby Doll.

For more information, the public is invited to check out the daily posts on the NCC’s website – www.ncctt.org and on the NCC official Facebook and Instagram pages.

Please take notice that the Opening of the following Tenders listed below as advertised has been RESCHEDULED FROM Monday 3rd August, 2015 UNTIL Friday 7th August, 2015 AT 3:00PM.

1. Rental of Chairs and Tables
2. Rental of Tents
3. Rental of Trailers and Portable Chemical Toilets at all venues
4. Provision of Stage, Ramps, Decks and Watch Towers at Queen’s Park Savannah
5. Provision of Stage, Ramps, Decks and Watch Towers at Skinner’s Park
6. Installation and Removal of Audio Visual System at all venues
7. Rental of Trailer Artistes’ Dressing Rooms at QPS and Skinner’s Park
8. Erecting and Dismantling of Calypso Tent at Queens Park Savannah

• Tender Notice (20.5KB Adobe PDF)

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) hereby invites suitably qualified entities, firms and individuals to tender for the provision of the following services for Carnival 2016:

1. Provision of Grounds Maintenance and Janitorial Services
2. The Installation and Removal of Plywood Sub-Flooring at Carnival Village - QPS
3. Supply of Armed, Unarmed and Canine Security

• Carnival Celebrations Janitorial and Carnival Village 2016 (65KB Adobe PDF)

These General Instructions are provided to respondents of the Commission’s invitation to assist in preparation of their submissions. They shall be augmented and/or overridden by the Instructions of Particular Application for the noted project.

• General Instructions to Respondents (280KB Adobe PDF)

This Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) calls for any natural or legal person eligible to respond.

 This Pre-Qualification Questionnaire shall replace any need to create a free-form proposal. Please complete the attached form fields to the fullest extent. All areas requiring your response are marked by answer blocks.

• Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) (71.01KB Microsoft Word)

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) hereby invites suitably qualified entities, firms and individuals to tender for the provision of the following services for Carnival 2016:

1. Install & Dismantle Temporary Fencing, Aisles, and Gates at various venues
2. Install Global Positioning System (GPS) for Carnival Band Management
3. Construction and Dismantling of Downtown Stand
4. Construction and Dismantling of Deck at Piccadilly Greens
5. Construction and Dismantling of North Stand at Queen’s Park Savannah
6. Provision of Ramps, Stands, and Decks at Woodbrook
7. Provision of Stage Lighting at Queen’s Park Savannah and Skinner’s Park
8. Provision of Sound and Public Address System at Queen’s Park Savannah and Skinner’s Park

• Invitation to Tender for the Provision of Services to the National Carnival Commission - Carnival Celebrations 2016 (28.68KB Adobe PDF)

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) hereby invites suitably qualified entities, firms and individuals to tender for the provision of the following services for Carnival 2016:

1. Rental of Chairs and Tables
2. Rental of Tents
3. Rental of Trailers and Portable Chemical Toilets at all venues
4. Provision of Stage, Ramps, Decks and Watch Towers at Queen’s Park Savannah
5. Provision of Stage, Ramps, Decks and Watch Towers at Skinner’s Park
6. Installation and Removal of Audio Visual System at all venues
7. Rental of Trailer Artistes’ Dressing Rooms at QPS and Skinner’s Park
8. Erecting and Dismantling of Calypso Tent at Queens Park Savannah

• Invitation to Tender for the Provision of Services to the National Carnival Commission - Carnival Celebrations 2016 (28.1KB Adobe PDF)

Friday 7th August, 2015

Port of Spain, Trinidad, June 22, 2015: Orlando Carnival 2015 got a much-needed infusion of traditional carnival history and artistry thanks to a workshop series championed by the National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC).

In late May, an official delegation, headed by NCC Chair, Lorraine Pouchet, comprising tutors Rosemarie and Lionel Jagessar Jnr., Keith Simpson, and Vernon Mohammed, visited Orlando to host the tutorial series on traditional carnival character costume-making, as well as host a lecture series on the history of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) wishes to announce that all outstanding subventions for our Special Interest Groups (SIGs) – Pan Trinbago, the National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA) and the Trinbago Unified Calysonians Organisation (TUCO) – will be disbursed on/by Monday June 8, 2015.

To date, the Commission has already disbursed over $48 million to the SIGs to cover their respective operational expenses and have invested over $50 million towards infrastructural support for the Carnival 2015 period.

Don Sylvester, NCC Deputy Chairman (left) presents a gift to Sophia Joseph, Miss Trinidad & Tobago (UK) at a courtesy visit at the NCC's office.

Michael Guyadeen, NCC CEO (left) presents a gift to Sophia Joseph, Miss Trinidad & Tobago (UK) at a courtesy visit at the NCC's office.

Mark Byam, NCC Corporate Secretary presents a gift to Alafair Celestine, Miss Trinidad & Tobago (UK) 2004, at a courtesy visit at the NCC's office.

Marilyn Plentie, Executive Assistant presents a gift to Angela Cox, pageant official of the Miss Trinidad & Tobago (UK), at a courtesy visit at the NCC's office.

Angela Cox, Sophia Joseph, Don Sylvester and Alafair Celestine all smile at a courtesy visit at the NCC's office.

Click here to download

Images of the Bahamas Carnival "Junkanoo", which was celebrated in early May 2015.

Lorraine Pouchet, Chairman of the NCC chats with the Honourable Perry Gladstone Christie, PC, MP, Prime Minister of Bahamas, during junkanoo carnival celebrations

Port of Spain, Trinidad, May 20, 2015: More than 100 Carnival industry representatives from across the country attended a business information session hosted by the National Carnival Commission (NCC) and the National Entrepreneurship Development Company (NEDCO) at the NCC VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah on May 19, 2015.

The session, organised by NCC’s Strategy and Business Development Unit, was designed to provide carnival stakeholders with greater access to a wider range of services, including access to seed capital, training workshops, and technical support, to name a few.

Included among Tuesday’s participants were representatives from Regional Carnival Committees, the National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA), Trinidad Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO), Pan Trinbago Inc., the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association, as well as members from 4 diverse vendors associations.

Deputy Chairman, NCC, Don Sylvester shared his organisation’s vision behind hosting the programme, saying that such support had been long in coming and would do a great deal in empowering the local Carnival industry.

Following which, Chief Operations Officer, Amar Ramdhanie, and Head, National Integrated Business Incubator Systems (IBIS), NEDCO, David Roberts delivered presentations, and offered insight into the benefits that participants could expect from their time as programme members.

The session comes as part of the NCC’s ongoing drive toward the development of Carnival from a one-off event to a yearlong sustainable industry, and arose out of the work of NCC's Carnival Stakeholders' Needs Assessment Survey and the recommendations arising out of that report.

More than 100 representatives from the Carnival Industry listen attentively to a presentation made by David Roberts, Head, IBIS, NEDCO

From left to right, Amar Ramdhanie, Chief Operations Officer, NEDCO, Don Sylvester, Deputy Chairman, NCC, David Roberts, Head IBIS, NEDCO

NCC Deputy Chairman, Don Sylvester welcomes the group, as Dr. Mareba Scott, Manager, Strategy & Business Development Unit, and Amar Ramdhanie, Chief Operations Officer, NEDCO look on.

Sign up and Get Started! Carnival Stakeholders learning more about #NCC and NEDCO groundbreaking business development programme

Port of Spain, Trinidad, May 18, 2015: Represented by an official delegation team, the National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) will visit Orlando, Florida to collaborate with Carnival organisers as they host a workshop series during the celebrations on May 22, 2015.

Together, we will host two workshops; one on traditional carnival characters, the other on the history of Trinidad carnival.

As these workshops bridge gaps between Trinidad and Tobago and Orlando celebrations, we will share information, knowledge and skills on the traditional aspects of carnival, as we expose participants to the history, dance, songs and portrayals related to the specific characters.

Following the conclusion of the workshops, 15 fancy Indian and 15 fancy sailor costumes will be constructed, decorated, and portrayed during Orlando’s carnival parade on May 24, 2015.

Additionally, the New Generation Branches Steel Orchestra and Tambran Crew have teamed up for a special tribute to Junior Pouchet, who was instrumental in the development and promotion of steelpan in Orlando. Junior was also the past president of the Orlando Carnival Cultural Association and one of the true cultural ambassadors in Orlando.

NCC Chair, Lorraine Pouchet heads the Trinidad and Tobago contingent, which also comprises qualified and artistic personnel that will tutor the workshops, Rosemarie and Lionel Jagessar Jnr., Keith Simpson, Vernon Mohammed amongst others.

“Carnival is a beautiful example of how people can come together and unite as a nation. It is a time when the beliefs and traditions of many cultures come together,” Pouchet said.

She added, “As the NCC pursues its mandate to make Carnival more viable, competitive, and sustainable, we are pleased to work with organisations across the region and internationally, offering insight and expertise where we can, to make this goal a reality.”

Port of Spain, Trinidad, May 5, 2015: “As one of our country’s most viable and sustainable businesses, Carnival has to be managed properly and given room to grow and develop. The problem, as it is, is that Carnival, so unique by its very nature, with a diverse creative community, a lack of formal education systems and certifications, and a lack of a formalised economic and social architecture is difficult to develop. Difficult, but we know, not impossible.”

“Today, we set out to prove that.”

National Carnival Commission (NCC) Chairman, Lorraine Pouchet made this commitment at the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Commission and the National Entrepreneurship Development Company (NEDCO), which took place at the NCC’s VIP Lounge at the Queen’s Park Savannah on Monday May 4.

The business development initiative, the first of its kind, will pave the way for entrepreneurs within the creative industry, the mas community, and several of its affiliates to have access to a variety of business-building services.

The services include: start-up and expansion loan facility services, training services, advisory services, incubator services, and knowledge/library services.

Also on hand at the signing was Minister of the Arts and Multiculturalism, Dr. The Honourable Lincoln Douglas.

Dr. Douglas used his time at the lectern to congratulate both partners on the initiative, as well as share some insight behind the Ministry’s support of the development of the creative sector industry.

“This MOU will only be an agreement, on paper, unless our creative leaders take advantage of every opportunity it presents. It is important that cultural practitioners recognise and put to use the benefits that will come out of this partnership.”

The NCC and NEDCO believe this latest agreement to be an integral part of a larger, more beneficial and strategic working relationship that will advance the business capacity and commercial viability of micro- and small businesses, in Trinidad and Tobago.

Pouchet urged the participants to make the most of the facility.

“We encourage you to look at this facility as your own. In so doing, we believe you will get the most from it. You will get the most from it because you demand the best from it, you stand to produce the best from it, and you deserve the best from it.”

Julien Henry, CEO of NEDCO (left) and Michael Guyadeen, CEO of NCC (right) sign the Business Training MOU between the NCC and NEDCO at the VIP Lounge, Queen's Park Savannah. Standing looking on is  Dr. the Honourable Lincoln Douglas, Minister of the Arts & Multiculturalism (left) and Lorraine Pouchet, Chairman of NCC.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) and the National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited (NEDCO) are working together to provide carnival stakeholders a wider range of services, including access to seed capital, training workshops, and technical support, to name a few.

As such you are invited to attend and cover a media conference on Monday May 4th, 2015 at the VIP Lounge, Queen's Park Savannah from 9am, where the NCC and NEDCO will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

This collaboration represents a historic development for both the Commission and NEDCO as it further represents a combined commitment to the transformation of Carnival from an event to industry by equipping all stakeholders with the requisite knowledge, skills, training and funding.

Should you require additional information, please feel free to contact Kevon Gervais@ 737-2282 or k.gervais@ncctt.org or Kyle Pilgrim @ 462-4476 or at k.pilgrim@ncctt.org.

Looking forward to your attendance.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) wishes to advise that the Media Conference with the Trinidad and Tobago Copyright Organisation (TTCO) scheduled for
Friday April 24, 2015 at the VIP Lounge, Queen's Park Savannah from 10am, has been cancelled.

Should you require additional information, please feel free to contact Kevon Gervais@ 737-2282 or k.gervais@ncctt.org or Kyle Pilgrim @ 462-4476 or at k.pilgrim@ncctt.org.

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) and the Trinidad and Tobago Copyright Organisation (TTCO) are working together to formally recognise the contributions of authors, artistes, and key industry personnel through the payment of royalties for the Dimanche Gras 2015 Season.

As such you are invited to attend and cover the media conference on Friday April 24, 2015 at the VIP Lounge, Queen's Park Savannah from 10am, where the NCC will hand over the royalty payments to TTCO.

This is a historic development for both the Commission and the TTCO. As the agency responsible for the management and administration of Carnival, the NCC believes that the transformation of Carnival from an event to industry can only occur if artistic creativity is protected from abuse. This recent collaboration between the NCC and TTCO will ensure this is done.

Should you require additional information, please feel free to contact Kevon Gervais@ 737-2282 or k.gervais@ncctt.org or Kyle Pilgrim @ 462-4476 or at k.pilgrim@ncctt.org.

The Forbes Best Countries for Business Report (2014) resulted in Denmark on top with the United Kingdom and the United States unable to find a place in the top ten.  They were ranked 13th and 18th, respectively. Jamaica led the countries in the Caribbean at 64 out of 146 countries. Trinidad and Tobago was ranked 71 and Barbados 73.

The report is compiled based  on 11 factors: property rights, innovation, taxes, technology, corruption, freedom (personal, trade and monetary), red tape, investor protection and stock market performance. Each factor was equally weighted. The data was sourced from published reports of Freedom House, Heritage Foundation, Property Rights Alliance, Transparency International, World Bank and World Economic Forum.

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In response to the article run on Sunday April 5, 2015, entitled “NCBA Woes Continue,” the National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) would like to take this opportunity to address and shed light on some of the issues as reported in the newspaper.

Contrary to what has been reported, the funds being sought by the Minister of the Arts and Multiculturalism are directly related to covering the NCC’s operational costs for the period 2015, and are not related to the National Carnival Bands Association and the payment of prize monies to Carnival Bands.

Last year, the NCC requested $150M to cover an accrued debt from 2014, and this figure was included in our budgetary request for TT $588M. However, we received only about 53 per cent of this figure, or TT $314M. The accrued debt was paid out of the budgeted allocation, leaving just over $160 million for this year’s Carnival and for operational expenses.

While the NCC has no major outstanding debts, an additional sum was requested to cover the budgetary shortfall. The request for funding will ensure that the NCC can continue to operate for the remainder of the financial year.

In this regard, the NCC continues to work within the $314 Million allocation as we pursue our mandate to manage, coordinate, and regulate Carnival activities. We would like to emphasise that the shortfall does not directly affect any of our special interest groups.

Central to achieving our mandate is the development of a robust and financially efficient organisation, with the capacity to increase revenue generation both privately and publicly, generate more value for money through greater expenditure control, best in class purchasing and procurement policies and practices, and improve debt management and viability.

Carnival is a national community event, and while we at the NCC are responsible for its governance and oversight, we intend to do so in the most equitable and financially responsible manner.

Lorraine Pouchet
Chairman

Port of Spain, Trinidad, March 9, 2015: The National Carnival Commission (NCC) hosted over 75 Carnival stakeholders from a wide range of interest groups, including bandleaders, traditional mas makers, association representatives, university students, and members of the public at its Carnival 2015 review meeting at the NCC’s VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah on Saturday March 8.

The 3-hour long review meeting brought stakeholders face-to-face with presiding Carnival associations and leaders, which included head panel members: the Minister of the Arts and Multiculturalism, Dr. The Honourable Lincoln Douglas, NCC Chair, Lorraine Pouchet, and NCC Deputy Chair, Don Sylvester.

The discussions were generally frank, and at times animated, as several participants expressed concerns over existing judging criteria, the outsourcing of Carnival costume production, and the need to preserve and respect traditional mas presentations on the Big Stage. However, many seized the opportunity to share their overall satisfaction with how well Carnival had been run this year.

Participants discussed a variety of topics including the Parade of the Bands routes, ways to preserve traditional mas and character portrayals, improvements to the Dimanche Gras show, the Panorama competition (Semis and Finals), Children’s Carnival, and Regional Carnival Celebrations.

As Pouchet thanked participants for their contributions, she also shared some of the proposed objectives that the Commission plans to move forward with as it maintains tighter control of the organisation of Carnival ahead of the commemoration of its 25th Anniversary in 2016.

She expressed the Commission’s solemn recommitment to adhere closely to the official mandate as outlined by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The Mandate of the National Carnival Commission, as set out in Chap 42:01 Act No. 9 of 91 of the Laws of Trinidad and Tobago, is as follows:

• To make Carnival a viable national, cultural and commercial enterprise
• To provide the necessary managerial and organisational infrastructure
• To establish arrangements for ongoing research, the preservation and permanent display of the annual accumulation of Carnival products

Pouchet also said that, as part of the NCC’s proposed initiative of increased stakeholder consultations on projects, it will be adopting a more inclusive approach to Carnival planning, which would help better address many concerns and lead to greater idea generation.

“While there were more successful initiatives and results noted this year, we know that there is always room for improvement when it comes to Carnival. Today’s forum discussion will allow us, in the spirit of mutualism, to flesh out these areas for improvement,” Pouchet added.

Several participants expressed their gratitude at NCC’s recommitment to improving the Carnival through increased stakeholder participation.

Pouchet indicated that the NCC will begin Carnival 2016 planning as of April, and invited all participants, as well as members of the public to submit their recommendations and concerns to the NCC via the official email info@ncctt.org or to visit their website at www.ncctt.org.

Steel Orchestras in all categories interested in competing in the National Panorama 2016 are advised that registration closes on Friday 20th March 2015.

Registration forms can be collected at the Regional Offices ie Northern, Eastern, South/Central and Tobago.  These are to be submitted on or before Friday March 20th 2015.

It should also be noted that the questionnaire will be distributed at a later date in order to collate data on the band’s tune of choice.

The registration of players form will be included with the questionnaire form.

Registered bands are reminded that Pan Trinbago is not responsible for the payment of transportation of instruments and players.

Port of Spain, Trinidad, March 2, 2015: The National Carnival Commission (NCC) hosted some of its Regional Carnival Committee members at a formal prizegiving ceremony in recognition of outstanding service during the Carnival period at the NCC’s VIP Lounge at the Queen’s Park Savannah on February 27.

Nine recipients were awarded with round-trip tickets to any Caribbean destination courtesy Caribbean Airlines, while the eight other special awardees were presented with well-stocked hampers courtesy Nestlé Trinidad and Tobago Limited.

This year’s awardees are:

• Best Coordinators    Mervyn Alleyne, Louise Henry
• Best Field Officers    Hemant Maharaj, Marlene Crystal Williams
• Best Tutors        Lennie Brewster, Orchid Mathais
• Best Individual Traditional Characters    Tracey Sankar Charleau, Sylvan Joseph
• Best Regional Carnival Calypso Nicholas Ashby

The special awardees among the coordinators were Peter Mohan, Steve John, Anne Joseph, and Guytrie Ellis, while those among the Field Officers were Hyacinth Rampersad Singh, Cornelia Sampson, and Rhondel Allen.

Representatives of the National Carnival Commission and Caribbean Airlines celebrate alongside the nine outstanding recipients from Regional Carnival Committees across the country.

The National Carnival Commission (NCC) cordially invites members of the public to a Post-Carnival 2015 Review Meeting at the NCC VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah on Saturday, March 7, 2015 from 9 am to 12 noon.

This forum is intended to facilitate discussions on the accomplishments, areas for improvement, existing programmes, and other initiatives of Carnival 2015.

The NCC looks forward to be engaged in meaningful dialogue with the national community on the future direction and development of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival from Event to Industry.

Due to space limitations, attendees will be seated on a first-come, first serve basis. Registration will be taken on the day. Comments are invited prior to the meeting and should be sent to info@ncctt.org.

For more information, visit our website at www.ncctt.org, email us atinfo@ncctt.org, check us out at our official Facebook page, or call us at 622-1670.

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UCIC Carnival 2015 Results

1. Roderick "Chucky" Gordon - "The Rose"/"I Believe"
2. Devon Seale - "My Humble Plea"/"Soul Judges"
3. Karene Asche - "Bridge The Gap"/"Every Knee Shall Bow"
4. Heather Mac Intosh - "Ah Gone"/"An Ode For 4"
5. Selvon "Mistah Shak" Noel - "Pretender's Reminder"/"Target"
6. Brian London - "Wishful"/"Who Vex Loss"
7. Duane O'Connor - "Citizens Pride"/"Dance Of Deliverance"
8. Myron Bruce - "Data Analysis"/"Ebola Scare"
9. Joanne "Tigress" Rowley - "What You Willing To Die For"/"Peace Chant"
10. Victoria "Queen Victoria" Cooper - "Venting"/"Long Live Calypso"
11. Neville "Bunny B" Brown - "Multi Crisis"/"Tame Tame Tame"
12. Winston "D Original DeFosto Himself" Scarborough - "Games"/"Messages Of The Patriach"

Roderick "Chucky" Gordon - "The Rose"/"I Believe"

Devon Seale - "My Humble Plea"/"Soul Judges"

NGC Couva Joylanders and bp Renagades will play first in their respective categories on Saturday (14th February 2015) as the National Panorama Medium & Large Conventional Bands Finals take centre stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, Trinidad, from 7:00pm.

Twenty one (21) steel orchestras will know their musical fate as they face two panels of adjudicators in what has been deemed “the battle royale for steelpan supremacy”. First prize winner in the Large Band category will receive $1,000.000. while that in the Medium Band will receive $600,000. and the bp Challenge trophies.

Making the cut are three (3) bands from Tobago.   Each of the competing bands will perform its Panorama calypso selection not exceeding eight (8) minutes and will be judged on the basis of 100 points in the categories Arrangement (40), General Performance (40), Tone (10) and Rhythm (10).

This year’s theme is “Reaching for the Stars….Pan in Ecstasy”. Six (6) individuals, Milton “Wire”Austin, Tommy Crichlow, Rennison Quashie, Sharon Pitt, Wallace Austin and Eshwarlal “Sam” Ramjitsingh will be honored for their dedicated service to the Organization.

In commemoration of Valentine’s Day, patrons attending the event will be treated to complimentary alcoholic beverages and chocolates, with those opting for the North Stand enjoying an all-inclusive experience. In addition, two (2) lucky persons will walk away with a pair of airline tickets to any Caribbean Airlines destination each.  Prices of admission are $750. (Special Reserved), $500. (General) and $450. (North Stand)

Fans, local and foreign, would be able to text the code of their favorite bands to a number provided by bmobile to vote in the FCL Financial People’s Choice. The bands with the most votes in each category will collect $10,000. while the person who text the most votes for the winning bands wins a Samsung S5 Smart phone courtesy blink/bmobile.

The order of appearance in Saturday’s competition is as follows:

There is a new THA Pan Champ in NGC Steel Xplosion.

The band from Carnbee scored 283 points to top the Large Band category with the Arddin Herbert arrangement of Slinger Francisco’s “Du Du Yemi”. Last year’s winner, Petrotrin Katzenjammers came in second with 282 points with the Winsford Devine composition, ”Say Say”.

Also in winner’s row is Our Boys with 268 points. The Small Conventional Band performed Lead Pipe & Saddis’ “Ah Feeling” arranged by Anslem Campbell.

Taking the Single Pan Title was Metro Stars with 275 points.  Their selection was “Show Time” composed by Alvin Daniell and Edwin Pouchet, arranged by Steve Jack.

The THA Pan Champs took place at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex Outdoors, Scarborough, last evening. Three panels of adjudicators officiated.

Results are as follows:

SINGLE PAN BANDS

SMALL BANDS

LARGE BANDS

Port of Spain, Trinidad, February 11, 2015: For the first time, a theme song has been specifically produced for the annual Dimanche Gras show 2015 taking place at the Queen’s Park Savannah on Sunday, February 15.

The song entitled, “Carnival – The Power of Love” will be unveiled and performed on the Grand Stage by a host of some of the greatest local talents of our time, representing a wide cross section of the country, including Ajala, Michelle Xavier, Neval Chetlal, and Roger George.

This year’s Dimanche Gras promises to be an engaging event as it is set to transform the Main Stage, the Grand Stand and the North Stand into a cultural extravaganza for the eyes and ears. The show, which is expected to run from 7 pm - 1 am, will revolve around the storyline of “Good vs. Evil”, and will feature both traditional and modern theatrical elements as it explores this storyline.

While the show maintains its customary format featuring the finals of  the Calypso Monarch  and the parade of the Carnival King and Queen, there will also be performances by this year’s Steelband Champion, and a vivid display of the traditional Mas characters, New this year as well, is an “after party” with live bands and top flight guest artistes.

National Carnival Commission (NCC) Chairman, Lorraine Pouchet, shared her thoughts and best wishes on this year’s Dimanche Gras.

“Over the years, we have noticed that the show’s popularity has waned for various reasons. So this year, we wanted to infuse some liveliness into this staple of our Carnival season and our culture,” Pouchet said.

“Without question, we are extremely excited about Sunday’s show, which promises to be quite an unforgettable affair. Although you can watch it on television, we invite the public to come down and witness it firsthand. There is secure parking, excellent facilities, and much more, and we are pleased to bring this show once again to the nation, the region, and the world.

Welcome to Trinidad and Tobago – The Home of Carnival; the greatest show on Earth.

I am Lorraine Pouchet, and as Chair of the National Carnival Commission (NCC), it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to our official website, designed to be your all-access cultural pass to everything Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago.

Carnival is our nation’s premiere cultural event and the NCC has made it the utmost responsibility to work equitably with various stakeholder and special interest groups to develop Carnival as a viable enterprise for the future.

What this means is that for over two decades, we have provided for, and preserved the various artistic and cultural segments that comprise Carnival. We have also empowered various national communities across the country, providing the leadership and financial resources, and encouraging them to celebrate Carnival in their individual ways.

Along with my colleagues on the Board of Commissioners, the management and staff, all of whom continually provide expert guidance and unwavering support, I am confident that as Carnival continues to evolve, becoming more complex and globalised, so too shall our team evolve in step, to take up the mantle of transitioning Carnival well into the 21st Century.

From Toco to Cedros, Scarborough to Roxborough, our Twin-Island nation teems with creativity and artistic innovation. The NCC is committed to doing our part as we support, inspire and remind our nation, and the world, of who we are, where we come from, where we are going. We are proud to be at the forefront of this paradigm shift in redefining and preserving our diverse cultural legacy.

At the end of the day, we believe that our nation shall be all the stronger, brighter, and more unique, as visitor and local alike can enjoy the traditions of old, the experiences of the present, and the promises and potential of the future.

Welcome again, to the Official Home of Carnival, Trinidad and Tobago.

Defending Single Pan Band Champion San Juan East Side Symphony will play at position 12 while their joint counterparts in the Small Band category, Super Novas, will perform first with Pan Jammers going in at number six.

The three (3) are part of the twenty nine (29) band line-up at the Petrotrin National Single Pan & Small Band Finals at Skinner Park, San Fernando, on Thursday 12th February 2015. Competition starts at 6:00 pm.

Super Novas, the Lopinot based band led by Anthony Samaroo will play Amrit Samaroo’s arrangement of “Dr. Samaroo”. The song was composed by Mark Loquan and sung by Anslem Douglas.  Trinidad East Side Symphony under the baton of Duvone Stewart will perform “Shaking It” composed and sung by Ronnie Mc Intosh while Pan Jammers have opted for Chris Garcia’s  “Chutney Bacchanal” arranged by Robert Tobitt.

The Sando event is the first of two finals in which the top steel orchestras through an elimination process will vie for bragging rights.

Winner in the Single Pan category will receive $200,000.  with the Small Conventional category winner collecting $400,000. and the bp and Pan Trinbago Challenge Trophies.

Earlier today, the competitors drew for playing positions. The order of appearance is as follows:-

Patrons attending the show will be eligible to win two (2) airline tickets on any Caribbean Airlines destination. Admission is $100.

The National Panorama Single & Small Band Finals is sponsored in part by Petrotrin.

The competition hosted by the Arima Carnival Committee in conjunction with Pan Trinbago Eastern Region was held at the Arima Basketball Court, Arima, last evening.

At the end of the competition, new winners were crowned ie Marsicans and Super Novas & Arima Angel Harps (tied).

Twelve (12) bands competed in what has been described as a “dry run to Panorama”.

The results are as follows:-

Single Pan Band

Small  Conventional Band

Misses Joanna Shortt, Joanna Ragbir and Sherry Ann Saunders served as adjudicators.

The three (3) top placed steelbands in the National Junior Panorama Finals maintained their positions.

St. Paul’s Boys Anglican, St. Francois Girls College and bp Renegades Youth Steel Orchestras placed first in their respective categories with 265, 273 and 281 points.

The National Junior Panorama Competition was held last Sunday at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Thirty four (34) bands competed in three (3) categories.

Adjudicators were: Avis Bruce, Dexter Assoon, Major Edouard Wade, Jill Ann Walters, Vanessa Headley and Maureen Clement (Primary Schools), Cuthbert Matthew, Barry Mannette, Kareem Brown, Victor Prescod, Michelle Dowrich and Seion Gomez (Secondary Schools), with Kenrick Noel, Nidel Diaz, Bernadette Roberts, Carlon Harewood, Dexter Assoon and Jeanette Johnson (Under 21).

During the competition, Awards were presented to Ms. Patricia Adams and Mr. Amrit Samaroo, for their continued dedicated service.

After ten (10) hours of high level of exhilarating steelpan music by young and talented players before their peers, the results were announced as follows:

Primary School Category