Saint Lucian Carnival preparations have reached a fever pitch with the announcement that soca megastar Machel Montano will serve as the headline performer for the prestigious Color Me Red (CMR) event. The landmark 20th anniversary celebration will unfold on Carnival Friday, July 17th, at the Beausejour Grounds in Gros Islet, solidifying its status as the season’s premier live concert and fete.
Event organizers from Red Carnival unveiled their ambitious plans during a media launch at M Motors, signaling a triumphant return to grand-scale production. Thaddeus Antoine, co-founder and director, emphasized the significance of securing Montano, who previously dominated the CMR stage for five consecutive years from 2011 to 2015. This booking represents a strategic move to recapture the event’s legendary atmosphere.
With a history of attracting top-tier regional soca talent while simultaneously providing a crucial platform for local artists, CMR has consistently set the standard for carnival experiences. This year’s theme, ‘Encore,’ draws inspiration directly from Montano’s 2026 hit single, promising a nostalgic yet fresh musical journey.
Addressing previous logistical shortcomings, organizers have committed to significant enhancements, particularly in VIP patron services. Learning from competitor events, the plan includes deploying multiple food stations and caterers to improve guest satisfaction. Notably, the upgraded experience will extend beyond VIP areas, with general admission attendees receiving branded glasses to foster inclusive participation in the curated ambiance.
Bank of Saint Lucia has been confirmed as the platinum sponsor for this milestone event, with additional performer announcements expected in the coming weeks.