Lucian Carnival, as Saint Lucians know it today, was built on the work of cultural pioneers, and the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) has begun honouring some of the individuals who helped shape the festival over the years.
The honours were presented during the official media launch of Lucian Carnival 2026, in what organisers say will become a regular feature.
Former Director of Carnival Teddy Francis led the presentations, as four individuals were recognised for their decades of work in steelpan, calypso, costume design and carnival development.
Leading those honoured was Gregory “Shining” Emmanuel, described as a man whose name has become almost synonymous with steelband and carnival in Saint Lucia. Francis noted that Emmanuel played a major role in developing the Diamond Steel Orchestra, helping build it into one of the cornerstones of Saint Lucia’s carnival landscape.
His work as a pan player, arranger and tuner helped shape the sound of steelpan music locally, while his work as a composer and writer has continued to influence and inspire members of the steelband community.
Also honoured was Dylan Pitcairn, recognised for his work as a costume designer, bandleader and calypso composer. Pitcairn was credited for helping to shape the visual identity of carnival through costume design, particularly in the King and Queen of the Band competitions.
Francis explained that Pitcairn’s journey into costume design began after he was challenged to design costumes for Diamond Steel during its early years, a move that helped launch his career and establish him as one of the island’s leading carnival designers.
Calypso was also recognised with the honouring of Trevor “Jah T” Anthony, who was described as a “true architect of calypso” in Saint Lucia. Along with collaborator Truscott “Sookou” Augustin, Jah T played a major role in developing young calypsonians and in growing the calypso movement, particularly through the Take Over Tent.
Over the years, Jah T produced a wide body of work, including songs such as Sufferers’ Song (Malawe), Rambo Diplomacy, Empty Promises (Pommet), Bouche Yo, Losing Ground, L’Argent, Boom Boom Bye Bye, Zodi Zodi in the City, Hillary and Mountains to Climb, many of which remain well known in Saint Lucian calypso.
Rounding out the group of honorees was Antonius “Secra” Gibson, described as a multifaceted figure in Saint Lucia’s carnival scene. Gibson began participating in mas from a young age and later became involved in steelband, performing with groups such as Scrubb Steel Band, Melody Steel Band and Falcons before joining Turks of Legendry.
Over the years, he became known as a calypso composer, music producer, tent leader and promoter whose work helped shape the sound and direction of Lucian Carnival.
Corporate support for carnival was also recognised on the night, with Heineken Saint Lucia Limited, through its Piton Beer brand, honoured for its contributions to the festival over the years.