On a vibrant Wednesday filled with rhythm and cultural pride, two Saint Lucian primary schools walked away with the highest honors at the annual National Primary Schools Calypso & Soca Competition, held at the iconic Mindoo Phillip Park. The event gathered young, promising performers from educational institutions across the island, creating a joyful space to celebrate local musical heritage, creative expression, and youthful talent.
The first segment of the competition centered on calypso, a genre deeply rooted in Caribbean social commentary and narrative storytelling. Young artists took the stage to deliver thoughtful, compelling performances that wove personal stories and critical observations into their music, captivating the attending crowds and panel of judges alike. When scores were finalized, Dugard Combined School claimed the coveted calypso crown with its standout performance of *Remember Me*, delivered by young performer who goes by the stage name Mr Personality. Second place went to Canon Laurie Anglican, which presented *Las Manti La* by rising artist Ti Jean. Anglican Infant secured third place with *What Should I Do* by Unique, while Ave Maria Girls’ Primary earned fourth spot with *Standing Strong*, a track from Mighty Informer.
Following the thoughtful calypso segment, the soca portion of the competition brought high-octane energy and infectious beats that kept the audience on their feet. Ave Maria Girls’ Primary stole the show here, turning in an electrifying performance of *Lash Up* by Soca Storm that earned the school the first-place soca title. Carmen Rene Memorial finished as runner-up with *We Ready for Di Road*, performed by young talents Zizi & Kiki. Ciceron R.C. Combined took third place with *Big Dreams* by I-Scream, while Camille Henry Memorial rounded out the top four with *The Rain Have Nothing on Us* by Little J.
Alongside the top-finishing schools, the competition welcomed participants from a range of other Saint Lucian primary institutions, including Morne Du Don Primary, Saltibus Combined, Gordon Walcott Memorial, Les Etangs Combined, and Delcer RC Combined, each contributing their own unique energy and artistry to the celebratory event.
Looking ahead, the next chapter of this national cultural showcase will kick off on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., also hosted at Mindoo Phillip Park in Castries. The upcoming National Secondary Schools Calypso & Soca Competition will feature secondary school talent from across the island, with confirmed participating institutions including Castries Comprehensive, Vieux Fort Comprehensive, Sir Ira Simmons Secondary, and St Joseph’s Convent.