TWELVE contestants have been shortlisted for the Junior Calypso Crown competition, according to reports from the Mashramani Secretariat.

The dozen will battle for the coveted title on Saturday, January 26, at the National Cultural Centre, in Georgetown before a panel of very distinguished judges.
The reigning Junior Calypso Queen, Tennicia De Freitas will, of course, defend her crown at what is expected to be a royal showdown.
Sources close to the Mash Secretariat said the entries received are all riveting, which indicates a forum for very exciting rivalry amongst the competitors who are carrying very positive messages, touching on topical and social issues in today’s society.
Taking the stage in no random order on January 26 will be Niiosi Alsopp singing ‘Drama School’; Akeem Adams is to sing ‘No to Narcotics’; Loquita Price is to render ‘What’s the Use’ and Niebba Gordon enters the battle with ‘Drugs affect the Membranes’.
Ronnel Gonsalves plans to excite the audience with ‘De Blackberry’, making way for Shakita Daniels to enter with ‘Don’t Abuse’. Vannessa Critchlow vows to win with her ‘No Explanation’ but will have to face the musical ferocity of Candacy Jackman’s ‘Unity is the Key’.
This is the last year for seasoned campaigner and GT&T Jingles and Song Competition finalist Ernesta Nelson to make a bid for the title before she moves over, next year, to contest amongst adults.
She thinks she has a really good chance at the crown, this year, stating that she does not fear reigning queen De Freitas and feels the others in the running are no match for her versatility.
But Nelson will have to be ready to fight the likes of Nadia David with ‘Curb this Brutality’ and Shontell Gittens with ‘Daddy’s Advice’. Ajani Collins will be taking a swipe at the others with ‘Show love and Respect’.