As Carnival season approaches, Trinidad and Tobago’s longest-running talk show performance, Talk Tent, prepares to captivate audiences with its unique blend of cultural storytelling, comedy, and social commentary. Established in 1983 by visionary producer Paul Keens-Douglas, this iconic event has evolved from its humble beginnings in a canvas tent on Victoria Avenue to becoming an institutionalized post-Carnival tradition at Queen’s Hall Conference Centre.
The event’s foundation rests on bringing together distinguished ‘men of words’ – including midnight robbers, pierrot grenades, and black Indians – showcasing their verbal artistry during Carnival celebrations. Under the motto ‘Where Talk Is Art,’ the production maintains its commitment to quality family entertainment while emphasizing educational values through diverse oral traditions.
This year’s lineup features an impressive roster of Caribbean performers: spoken word poet Seth Sylvester, performance poet Miguel Browne, pierrot grenades specialists Felix Edinborough and Keomi Serrette, calypsonian Llewellyn ‘Short Pants’ Mac Intosh, along with Farida Chapman, Avion Crooks, MC David Bereaux, and founder Keens-Douglas himself as master storyteller.
The 2024 performances are scheduled for February 21-22 at Queen’s Hall Conference Centre in St. Ann’s. Tickets priced at $300 are available at multiple outlets including Crosby’s, RIK locations in Trincity and Gulf City, Domon’s Shoe Store in Long Circular Mall, Metropolitan Book Suppliers on Ariapita Avenue, and directly at Queen’s Hall. Attendees can also purchase exclusive show-priced books, CDs, and DVDs featuring the performing artists.
Organizers emphasize that Talk Tent’s continued success relies on community support from patrons who recognize its vital role in preserving authentic Caribbean cultural expressions. As the release notably states: ‘There are many talk shows but only one Talk Tent!’ For additional information, interested parties can contact 632-1647, 684-1629, 376-5699, or visit the official Facebook page.