News Releases

Calypso Royalty Lord Nelson Thrills at UWI The Old Yard 2025

For Release Upon Receipt - March 6, 2025

St. Augustine


  Calypso Royalty Takes Centre Stage - The legendary Lord Nelson interacts with the audience, delivering a masterclass in storytelling through song at DCFA’s Old Yard 2025.

St. Augustine, March 6, 2025 – Calypso icon The Lord Nelson (Robert Nelson) was the star attraction at The University of the West Indies (The UWI) Department of Creative and Festival Arts (DCFA) annual showcase, The Old Yard 2025. On Sunday, February 23rd, the Gayelle at DCFA on Gordon Street was transformed into a vibrant celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich Carnival traditions under the theme “One Familay.”

 The highlight of the event was the electrifying performance by Lord Nelson, whose timeless hits enthralled the audience. The 93-year-old veteran calypsonian, known for classics like Meh Lover, La La, and King Liar, had attendees singing along and dancing to the infectious rhythms of calypso. His set brought generations together, reinforcing calypso’s enduring role in the Carnival experience.

 Beyond Lord Nelson’s unforgettable performance, The Old Yard featured a stunning display of traditional masquerade. Attendees were immersed in the spectacle of Moko Jumbies, Whipmasters, Soumayrees, and Gorillas, while the Sailor Mas Band took centre stage, paying homage to one of Carnival’s most iconic forms. The event also featured captivating performances by DCFA dancers and other performing artistes, adding another dynamic layer to the celebration.

 The Old Yard was more than just a festival, it was a living tribute to the artistry and storytelling of the nation’s ancestors, bridging past and present in a shared moment of cultural pride. The DCFA extends its gratitude to all who attended and supported this cherished event, ensuring that the legacy of Carnival continues to thrive.

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 Dancing Through History – A vibrant Soumayree brings the essence of traditional Indian mas to life, dazzling spectators at DCFA’s Old Yard 2025.

 

 Sailor on Parade - This year’s featured act, The Fancy Sailors take over the Gayelle, showcasing their iconic choreography and larger-than-life personalities in a nostalgic tribute to a timeless Carnival tradition.

 

 Fierce Whipmasters, Honouring Tradition – Whipmasters display their whips embodying the power and precision of the Jab Jab tradition at DCFA’s Old Yard 2025.

 

A Baby Doll's Bold Cry - A Baby Doll confronts the audience with bold determination demanding accountability as she re-enacts this traditional Carnival character.

 

 News from the Streets - The Paperboy delivers his tale, channeling the charm and wit of this historic character as he spreads the latest “headlines” of Old Yard.

 About The University of the West Indies

 The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is the Caribbean’s premier higher education institution and one of only two regional universities in the world. With five campuses across the English-speaking Caribbean and global centres in partnership with universities in North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, The UWI continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, research innovation, and societal impact. Consistently ranked among the world’s best by Times Higher Education (THE), The UWI is a global leader in addressing critical challenges, including climate change, sustainability, and development.

 As The UWI St. Augustine Campus celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2025 under the theme Beyond 65: From the Caribbean, For the World, it pays tribute to its Caribbean roots while highlighting its contributions to solving global challenges. This milestone underscores the campus's significant role in producing ground-breaking research and fostering talent that transcends regional boundaries to shape a better world. The UWI St. Augustine’s researchers, academics, and graduates continue to make an international impact, exemplifying the university’s mission to serve the region while influencing the world.

 Learn more at www.uwi.edu 

 

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