Will they sing? Dimanche Gras facing Kaiso boycott

File

Sunday night's Dimanche Gras show heralding the start of Carnival 2012 will go on whether there is a calypso competition or not.

There is uncertainty about that component of the show because the fianlaists who are supposed to appear on the show have threatened a no-show unless the prize money is doubled.

The first prize in all the top shows is half a million dollars. Last year there was an one-off exception with the top prize being $2 million. However the government had made it clear that the amount was only for carnival 2011.

The calypsonians said on Friday they won't accept the half a million as first prize, calling it "disrespectful" to the art. 

There is no word on whether there will be a calypso component. However organisers say the show will go on.

The theme for Sun day night is Bring back the Old Time Days". The show will feature segments celebrating all aspects of Carnival from its beginning following emancipation in 1834 to contemporary times.

A highlight for the show is the finals of the King and Queen of Carnival competitions.

Ten Kings and ten Queens are in the running for the titles of King of Carnival and Queen of Carnival.

There will also be presentations in tribute to the men and women who have contributed to calypso, mas and the steelband through the years.