David Rudder to open Chutney Soca Monarch

Former Calypso Monarch David Rudder will open the National Lotteries Classic Chutney Soca Monarch tonight at Skinner Park San Fernando at 8 pm. Rudder, who is well known for the unity song, “The Ganges and Nile,” will join voices with Ella Andell and Anil Bheem for the opening sequence of the competition. This is the tenth annual Carnival competition for chutney artistes. Members of the Laventile Rhythm Section will join reigning Tassa Monarch, St John’s Tassa Group, as part of the opening ceremony as well. According to the CEO of Southex (competition host), George Singh, a spectacular event is planned for this year’s competition.

“A lot of work went into the planning of this year’s show and we are hoping to have a fantastic event this year,” Singh said. Apart from the “shifting” stage that will be projecting into the audience, patrons will be treated to fireworks and other dramatic special effects. Southex has also constructed a wooden floor with the use of ply board in order to get away from the mud and mess at Skinner Park. The host is also ensuring maximum security both in and out of the venue. Dances will be performed by the Nirvana Dancers and members of the Durga Shakti Dance Company.

The event will see 15 contestants vying for the top prize of $100,000. They are: Adesh Samaroo, Budram Holass, Heeralal Rampartap, Mohip Poonwasie, Carlene Wells, Denise Belfon, Edward Ramdass, Lynn Khan, Devanand Gatoo, Phoolmatie Ramjattan, Sarika Mahabir, Mario Jitman, Neeshan Prabhoo, Surendra Ramoutar and  defending champion, Rooplal Girdharie. The contest, one of the biggest events for chutney singers in TT, carries a first prize of $100,000, with $60,000 going to the second place winner and $40,000 to third.