The cultural fabric of the Caribbean is as diverse as it is dynamic, and this was beautifully reflected when Anguilla, Grenada, and Martinique came together on one stage. Each country brought not only its music and artistry, but also its soul, painting a portrait of Caribbean identity that was powerful, creative and deeply moving.
Anguilla: Opening in Style
The evening began with Anguilla, and right from the first note, the crowd was drawn into the island’s unique rhythm. Anguilla’s 2024 Soca Monarch, Viggy, opened with his infectious hit All We Know. The performance was more than music; it was a statement of heritage, a love letter to Anguilla’s traditions and spirit. Viggy’s ability to blend modern soca beats with lyrical depth kept the audience energised and smiling.
But what truly lingered was the creative brilliance of Anguilla’s 2025 Calypso Monarch, Queen Roxxy. Her song explored a playful yet profound observation: Anguilla is the only island with “U” and “I” right in the middle of its name. This witty metaphor unfolded into a lyrical reminder of unity and belonging, offering both humour and pride. It was a moment I thought showcased Anguilla’s incredible artistry. Inventive, reflective and joyously Caribbean.
Grenada: Storytelling with Fire
If Anguilla set the mood, Grenada shifted the evening into a space of drama and reflection. The island presented an ambitious, hour-long stage play penned by Dr Christopher Roger Williams, titled Vomit. At first glance, the title seemed stark, but as the story unfolded, it revealed itself as a deeply human tale.
The play followed Ms Grenade, a middle-aged woman grappling with broken family ties and fragile relationships. Her struggles echoed the challenges of many, but they were expressed against the backdrop of Grenada’s cultural and political identity. The production was layered – a love story, a social commentary and a cultural expression all at once.
The cast carried the story with remarkable energy, and the audience was riveted as Ms Grenade, despite her struggles, found the strength to rise. In a climactic moment, she struck back at her abuser, choosing empowerment over despair. The play left the crowd both reflective and uplifted, its message of resilience resonating far beyond the stage.
Martinique: A Celebration Awaited
Though the evening was rich with Anguilla’s inventive music and Grenada’s stirring drama, all eyes also turned to Martinique, whose cultural showcase promised another dimension of Caribbean artistry. Known for blending French-Caribbean elegance with Afro-Caribbean rhythm, Martinique’s contribution was anticipated as the perfect closing chapter – a celebration of movement, melody and heritage.
Together, these three islands reminded us that Caribbean culture is not a singular note but a symphony. From Anguilla’s lyrical creativity to Grenada’s dramatic storytelling and Martinique’s anticipated flair, the night was a living testament to the region’s diversity. On one stage, the Caribbean came alive; bold, beautiful and unforgettable.
