Kooyman Barbados on board with All-Stars Calypso Tent

Kooyman Barbados has joined the All-Stars Calypso Tent as its new title sponsor, forming a corporate partnership with one of Crop Over’s prominent tents.

The announcement was made during the tent’s official launch on Saturday morning at Kooyman’s Kendall Hill, Christ Church location.

Tent Manager Eleanor Rice pointed to the group’s strong showing in the Pic-O-De-Crop competition and expressed confidence in another successful season.

“The tent and its cast guarantee its audience that just as we led the way in establishing the best calypso show on Sunday nights, just as we were the first tent to carry its judging night to the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, and just as we deliver kings and the only queen to date since Rita to the Barbadian public, this year holds the promise of equally outstanding accomplishments.”

Kooyman’s Marketing Officer, Charlene Mullin, said the company is proud to support an iconic element of Barbadian culture.

She noted Kooyman’s broader community involvement since opening five years ago, saying that supporting Crop Over aligns with the company’s belief that “culture is community”. She said Kooyman is committed to standing with the people who shape the festival.

Also voicing support at the launch were representatives from Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BIMAP) and the Student Revolving Loan Fund (SRLF), both pledging to contribute to the cultural and educational development of Barbados.

Krystal Sealy, business development officer at BIMAP, said the organisation is supporting creative and educational opportunities for artists and people who attend the tent.

Alan Roach of SRLF announced the launch of “Edu Flex”, a new flexible loan programme aimed at making education more accessible.

The tent’s 2025 season will open on June 1 at the St Gabriel’s School auditorium at 6 p.m., and patrons can look forward to Sunday night performances throughout the month. Music lovers from the north have the option of attending the show on July 5 at the Daryll Jordan Secondary School.

The lineup includes Sammy G, Sammy Dello, Jude Clarke, Darren Holder, Donella, Richard Antonio, Charisma, Bumba, Ross, Imara, Queen Kareen, Romancia, Teri, Trinity, Miguel, Grateful Co, Colin Spencer, and Niqa. The new addition to the tent will be Jahdiel.

The tent’s launch event featured energetic performances from calypsonians Sammy Dello, Miguel, and Niqa. (STT)