I was an avid fan of the Soca Monarch finals, having attended since the days when it was next to MovieTowne. I went when it was at the PSA and the Oval. I have stopped going since the experience was no longer enjoyable. I started looking at it from the comfort of my home and even that too I have decided is not an experience I can tolerate anymore. This change of heart about the show has nothing to do with the entertainers but all to do with the organisers. Why would I subject myself to pay-or to stay home-and watch flags constantly blocking my view of the performances on stage? I am no longer interested in seeing flags constantly obstructing my view. This has also crept up in the chutney soca competition and Machel's concert.
I believe that the organisers will realise this problem when it starts hitting their pockets. When they start seeing the revenues dwindle from the pay per view arrangements or DVD sales because people are fed up or maybe when there is a lawsuit from one of the contestants because the judges were not able to see his performance. For years Pan Trinbago allowed rhythm sections at the Panorama semi-finals to grow out of hand in the North Stand to the dismay of many paying patrons as well as the steelbands. They have heard the cries and complaints for years but have done nothing. As the old saying goes, "who doh hear will feel" and after this injunction by Renegades we are sure to see a change next year.
Hopefully the organisers will take cognisance of the fact that it is taxpayers' money that has ensured that the Soca Monarch show goes on with the $2 million first prize and sponsorship from the NLCB, TDC, bmobile and Caribbean Airlines, all state companies. Give the taxpayers and the paying patrons a chance to see where our money is going.
R de Silva
Via e-mail