Allen takes a BYTE out of calypso tent culture “The Barrack Yard Tent Experience” (BYTE) Stalwarts in the calypso fraternity are gearing up to revolutionise the calypso tent culture through “The Barrack Yard Tent Experience” (BYTE). Not to be confused with the Barrack Yard Experience held earlier this year, BYTE represents the evolution of the traditional calypso tent, said Choc’late Educulture Factory Ltd CEO Choc’late Allen. Combining more than 50 years’ experience within the entertainment industry, BYTE will provide enchanting socially conscious lyrics, melodies, vibrant rhythms, beautiful Caribbean fashion, interactive set designs, drama, dance choreography and “feel- good” music, all set in a “barrack yard” communal living reminiscent of the mid-1900s. Headed by Kurt Allen, “The Last Badjohn of Calypso”, and Leroy Calliste “Black Stalin”, BYTE is being jointly produced by the House of Badjohns and the Office of the Calypso Monarch, and dedicated to Black Stalin, who is recovering after suffering a stroke two months ago. Despite the widespread public perception the once-thriving calypso tent culture is in fact dying, with some claiming it has already died, it is not so, said Allen at the launch of BYTE, at the National Carnival Commission’s (NCC) VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on Wednesday. Allen noted calypso tent culture is currently preparing itself for a metamorphosis, in order to fulfil its true potential. Drawing reference to visionary calypsonian Railway Douglas, who arguably changed the cultural landscape by producing what was considered the first real calypso tent, Allen said: “Metaphorically, we see the calypso tent in its original form as a caterpillar that Railway Douglas nurtured. “Over time, the caterpillar became a pupa, protected inside a cocoon. As part of its natural progression, the pupa is now ready to morph into a butterfly, thereby fulfilling its destiny. The Barrack Yard Tent Experience represents just that, a transformation and evolution from the Railway Douglas Model.” BYTE will highlight calypso music, create economic opportunities for the calypso industry, renew interest and appreciation for calypso music and cultural expressions, as well as rebrand the concept of traditional calypso tents, to name a few, Allen said. Comprised of 13 shows, BYTE will run from January 15 to February 19, 2015. Each week, the audience will get a new and different show. From the content, environment and delivery, BYTE patrons will also have the opportunity to enjoy sumptuous local cuisine. Tickets are priced at $150 and $200 for general and reserved admission, in addition to all-inclusive and special packages. There will be a box office within a month for all interested in early/advanced purchases and reservations. All proceeds will go towards calypso icon Black Stalin. Trinidad Express Story
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 14:29:15 +0000
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