Protector Opts Out of 2006 Calypso Monarch

Courtesy of TUCO

Press Release

Friday, February 17, 2006 - Michael Legerton, known in the calypso world as Protector, will not perform tomorrow at Skinner Park, San Fernando, at the 2006 National Calypso Monarch Semifinal.

Also the President of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) and a past Young Kings Monarch, Protector said yesterday that he opted out of the competition and would be replaced by first reserve Lesley Ann Ellis.

"I took a decision that I think will serve the organisation better as a whole," said the former Canadian-based bard yesterday.

When named among the semifinalists a week ago, there were some rumblings within the organisation over the president vying against them in competition.

One of the headline acts at Kaiso House and one of eight semifinalists from the Port-of-Spain City Hall tent, Protector said that had he not been president, he is confident that he would have sang his way to the Dimanche Gras night final with his two hot selections this year, Flip Flap and Under the Trees at The Normandie.

Admitting to being non-plussed as to his emotions over withdrawing, Protector said: "We (the entire calypso body) need to sit and debate this thing as being on the executive of the organisation should not hinder participation in competition by a president."

"I am a calypsonian first, and an administrator second. Competition in calypso is vital to a calypsonian’s value and longevity. When you become president of TUCO that is a sacrifice in itself; far less having to consider not singing in competition."

Protector said that he couldn't recall whether former TUCO President Gypsy (Winston Peters) competed in the national monarch competition when he held office, but believes he competed in other contests while holding office.

Protector said that he was happy that his replacement will be Lesley Ann Ellis of Glow calypso tent, now the lone Tobago representative in the semifinal.

"When I checked the listing I realised that the first reserve was Lesley Ann Ellis. I thanked God, because Tobago had no representation in the semifinal. So, maybe, it was God working in His usual mysterious manner. As a leader one has to make positive examples and this sacrifice is worth it."

Tomorrow's programme is scheduled to begin at noon and 11 of the 30 semifinalists will be chosen to challenge incumbent monarch Chalkdust at the grand final, scheduled for Carnival Sunday at the Queen's Park Savannah.

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TUCO (Trinbago Unified Calypsonians' Organization)

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