In a powerful demonstration of cultural solidarity, Trinidad and Tobago’s President Christine Kangaloo has declared the President’s House a permanent home for the national steelpan instrument. The announcement came during the inaugural Steelpan Royale: An Evening of Elegance event held December 3 at the official presidential residence in St. Ann’s, addressing growing concerns over diminished state support for the traditional art form.
The event, which assembled diplomats, regional leaders, industry captains, and cultural icons, served as both an artistic showcase and political statement. President Kangaloo emphasized the steelpan’s global stature and versatility, noting its capacity to ‘command any stage, anywhere in the world.’ Her remarks carried particular significance as five steelbands recently lost sponsorship from state energy companies, creating financial uncertainty within the community preparing for Carnival 2026’s costly Panorama competitions.
The musical program featured extraordinary performances by pan legends Ray Holman, Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe, and Natasha Joseph, who demonstrated the instrument’s remarkable expressive range through solo selections. Their repertoire spanned Christmas classics including ‘Deck the Halls,’ ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas,’ and ‘Little Drummer Boy,’ before transitioning into spirited collaborations featuring soca parang favorites like Baron’s ‘Come Go’ and Scrunter’s ‘Ma Jeffrey.’
The evening culminated with The Lydians choir, under Dr. Edward Cumberbatch’s direction, delivering a show-stopping finale that merged a tassa-infused arrangement of the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ with a stirring rendition of ‘Nessun Dorma,’ earning multiple standing ovations. With musical direction by maestro Pelham Goddard, the event reaffirmed the steelpan’s dual identity as both national treasure and global artistic force.
As guests departed, President Kangaloo and her husband Kerwyn Garcia personally thanked attendees, extending seasonal greetings while reinforcing the message that despite funding challenges, the steelpan—born from struggle and creativity—remains firmly positioned at the nation’s highest seat of office.