Creative Industries Minister Rejects ‘Dying Art Form’ Label for Calypso

Refusing to accept that calypso is a ‘dying art form’ in Antigua and Barbuda, Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George says a ‘shot in the arm’ is what is required for the art form.

Minister George’s statement was in response to the reaction of some citizens and residents that the low turnout of patrons at this year’s calypso competition for Carnival 2026 is an indication that it is no longer central to Antigua and Barbuda’s culture.

While acknowledging that calypso has declined in recent years, the Minister of Sports and Creative Industries said it remains a critical component to the creative industry.

He added that extra resources will ensure its sustainability.

“We are responsible as leaders spearheading the industry to put more resources into our platforms and our art forms,” Minister George stated.

He added that the recent announcement by the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda to inject $250,000 into the newly-established Creative Industries Development Fund will significantly aid in boosting the creative sector.

According to the Cabinet Notes, it is expected that calypsonians and other artistes will utilise the fund to develop their work, and in so doing, maintain international standards and revenue generation.

“We know in many cases the constraint of our music is more or less the financial resources. We came to the consensus that we would be pumping more into out creatives because we know the Carnival is, and shouldn’t just be two weeks. It should be all year round,” Minister George lamented.

“It should be a product that is sold all year round. As I have said, my first Carnival has given me a clearer understanding of what it takes to produce an event of this magnitude and more importantly, what it will take to move Carnival to the next level,” he added.

Minister Dwayne George noted that his aim is to build a culture and creative industry that “provides opportunities, generates economic activities, and perspective for our creatives and our people throughout the entire year”.

That he pointed out, includes calypsonians.