Venezuelans celebrate their National Calypso Day

GREVIC ALVARADO

Venezuelans in Trinidad and Tobago celebrated their National Calypso Day on August 17, when their embassy held a cultural presentation at the National Library and Information System Authority (Nalis), Abercromby Street, Port of Spain.

The documentary, The Muse of El Callao, by Venezuelan filmmaker José Miguel Zamora, was screened for visitors.

A presentation about the Trinidadian cultural legacy in Venezuela by professor and researcher Namdi Hodge and a musical evening of various Venezuelan calypsoes, such as
Woman del Callao,
Ajá, ajá bandido and
Guayana es, performed by Hilary Castillo and the musical group from the Venezuelan Institute for Culture and Cooperation (IVCC), accompanied the celebration. Around 100 people attended the cultural presentation.

Ambassador Alvaro Sanchez Cordero said the calypso arrived in his country during the last decades of the 19th century from TT.

“Not many people in TT know about the development of the calypso musical genre in Venezuela, which is why we wanted to bring you this Venezuelan cultural and musical sample that undoubtedly unites us even more as sister nations. This cultural understanding, which is also historical, exalts and strengthens us."

Artisan Alana Ramlal said, “Not only are we close in geographic proximity, but thanks to tonight's celebration, I received an educational lesson that makes me feel even closer to Venezuela in human connection.

"Now it is up to me to share this knowledge so my Trinidadian friends honour, respect and contribute to the growth and understanding between our communities."

Burton Sankeralli said the importance of learning about places like El Callao, Venezuela and its Caribbean heritage stands out.

Roger Belix, head of the Partners for First Peoples Development organisation, highlighted the cultural contribution of this type of event. “It was a highly educational and interactive session, which should be known to everyone in TT.”