By Kojo

The rhythm of Calypso rang through the halls of the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate on May 18th as the Organization for Calypso Performing Artists (OCPA) hosted its first-ever “Calypso Tune-Up” event to a sold-out audience.

Held at the Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago’s building in Toronto, the event delivered a full-course celebration of culture: delicious Caribbean meals, sweet desserts, and an unforgettable serving of top-tier Calypso performances.

The evening was spearheaded by OCPA President Henry “Cosmos” Gomez, who welcomed the crowd with warmth and purpose. Gomez emphasized that while many of the calypsonians are active performers, OCPA also needs consistent administrative leadership to drive its mission forward.

The evening’s lineup was a showcase of Calypso stalwarts, including performances from Brown Sugar, Macomere Fifi, Bill “Crooner” Newman, Blocker, Gunny, Princess Trinidad, Connector and Cosmos. All artists brought their signature flair to the stage, but it was Macomere Fifi and Bill “Crooner” Newman who stole the spotlight.

Newman’s performance—highlighted by a song about his wife’s purse, earned rousing applause and likely secured him the unofficial “People’s Choice” of the night. Macomere Fifi, always a crowd favourite, brought her commanding voice and stage presence to stage, reaffirming her title as a Calypso icon.

Attendees left buzzing about what’s to come. With the Calypso tent season approaching and Carnival on August 2nd just around the corner, this Tune-Up served as both a warm-up and a promise: Calypso is alive and thriving in Toronto.

“This is what we need more of in the city,” said one attendee. “Successful cultural events that honour and elevate our Caribbean roots.”

As OCPA gears up for an exciting 2025 season, the Tune-Up has set the tone—Calypso in Toronto is tuned, tested, and ready to play.