Battle on tonight for Independence Chutney Soca Monarch

The stage is set for tonight’s Independence Chutney Soca Monarch at Skinner Park, San Fernando, where ten finalists will battle for the $.5 million first prize. The show, which is expected to kick off 8 pm, is anticipated to have all the “glitz and glamour of the Carnival edition.” Among the ten artistes are Drupatee, Falco, Soca Elvis, Sally Sagram, Rikki Jai, Arti Butkoon, KI Persad, Rooplal Girdharrie and Mohip Poonwassie.

Kenneth Supersad is also set to compete and seems to be the strongest contender, having won both the preliminary and semi-finals. The artistes have songs composed in relation to the nation’s Independence. The event is produced by Southex in collaboration with the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism in honour of the nation’s 50th Independence anniversary.

Guest artistes performing alongside the chutney singers include JMC 3Veni and Melobugz. Dance acts are also set to thrill the audience as the Premala Dance Academy, Shiv Shakti, Prema Shakti, Priya Kelley Dancers and Amritham Shakti. The show will end with a vibrant fireworks spectacle as the winner would be crowned Chutney Soca King or Queen. There is also a second prize of $250,000 and a third prize of $150,000. All other performers will receive $50,000.