BACA chides NCF CEO over Pic-O-De-Crop quality remarks

The Barbados Association of Creatives and Artistes (BACA) has challenged remarks made by Carol Roberts, the National Cultural Foundation’s chief executive, regarding the quality of performances in the Pic-O-De-Crop calypso competition.

In a statement, BACA addressed comments Roberts recently made in the media, where she said the standard of some of the material presented in this year’s social commentary segment “left a lot to be desired”.

While the association acknowledged the value of constructive criticism, it argued that the tone and context of Roberts’ remarks risked diverting attention from larger issues surrounding the festival, rather than fostering genuine improvement in the competition’s standard.

“After what was widely regarded as a disappointing 50th anniversary of the Crop Over Festival,” BACA said, “it is unfortunate that the NCF seems to be shifting blame onto the calypsonians, rather than addressing the broader systemic issues that may have contributed to the perceived shortcomings.”

The group questioned Roberts’ qualifications to make what it described as “sweeping judgments” about the quality of the material, suggesting that her comments could be seen as disparaging to some of Barbados’ most prominent calypso writers, including multiple past monarchs like Adrian Clarke, The Mighty Gabby, Red Plastic Bag, Kidsite, and Ian Webster. Webster, they noted, is also part of the successful songwriting duo, Water Street Boys. Other key figures, such as Crystal Cummins-Beckles and Billboard Murrell, were also highlighted for their contributions to the calypso genre, including work with junior calypsonians.

“These individuals have significantly shaped the cultural fabric of our nation and continue to contribute to various competitions both locally and regionally,” BACA said, adding that Roberts’s comments were “deeply troubling.”

BACA also challenged Roberts’ stance on the absence of a semi-final round in the Pic-O-De-Crop. The semi-final stage, which has not been held since 2018, was deemed unnecessary by the NCF chief, who argued that reinstating it would only produce more sub-par songs.

“We note the NCF’s insistence on maintaining the one-song format and the decision not to reinstate a semi-final round, despite repeated calls from BACA and the calypsonian community,” the statement read. “While we understand the need for evolution in the competition’s format, these decisions must be made in the best interest of the art form and its practitioners, particularly those who are relatively inexperienced.”

BACA also expressed concern over the NCF boss’s criticism of calypsonians for not attending the NCF’s songwriting workshops led by top entertainers. The association described this stance as contradictory, warning that it could undermine confidence in the foundation’s leadership and raise questions about the direction of the country’s cultural heritage.

The association went further, criticising the NCF for the technical and logistical challenges that have plagued the Pic-O-De-Crop finals in recent years. BACA argued that these issues, which often disrupt the performances, make it difficult for calypsonians to deliver their best work.

“The timeliness of the show’s start is also essential; delays and mismanagement of the show can disrupt its flow and negatively impact the performers’ readiness and morale, despite any level of professionalism that the artiste may hold,” it said.

The association also stressed the importance of punctuality, noting that delays and poor management of the event could negatively affect performers’ readiness and morale, regardless of their professionalism.

“Improving the overall experience for calypsonians both backstage and on stage is critical for them to give their best performance,” BACA said. “Ensuring that artistes are adequately catered for, with proper facilities and support, contributes significantly to their state of mind and mental preparation before they step onto the stage and during their performance.”

The artists called for the NCF to engage in “meaningful dialogue” with the calypsonian community and work collaboratively to develop solutions that would benefit all stakeholders.

“BACA finds the CEO’s comments to be not only disrespectful but also counterproductive to the development of the calypso art form. We call on the NCF to engage in meaningful dialogue with the calypsonian community and to work collaboratively towards solutions that benefit all stakeholders. It is through cooperation that we can ensure the continued growth and success of the Pic-O-De-Crop Calypso Competition and the Crop Over Festival overall,” the statement concluded.