T&T Carnival – J’ouvert King and Queen Selected, Richard Montano, Laverne Smith

2026-02-19 - 13:44

Veteran masqueraders Richard Montano and Laverne Smith have been crowned the 2026 J’ouvert King and Queen, following the traditional ole mas competition that officially launched the Merry Monarch celebrations at South Quay in Port of Spain. Despite a smaller audience gathered at the Lord Kitchener Stands and along the streets, the event once again showcased one of Carnival’s most intellectually sharp traditions, satire rooted in current affairs, politics, and social commentary. Richard Montano Retains the Crown Montano successfully defended his title with his presentation “U-N See Running D-Corn-Tree,” a humorous political portrayal featuring a remote-controlled corn tree constantly escaping his control. The clever interpretation earned him not only the crown but also the Most Creative award. The longtime ole mas performer said the concept was inspired by closely following Trinidad and Tobago’s political developments while living in Florida. He also raised concerns about declining participation, suggesting that increased prize money could help revive interest in ole mas, noting that both winners received TT$2,500 for first place. “Ole mas is my passion... but better prize incentives could help bring more people back,” he said. Laverne Smith Secures Hat-Trick Victory Smith achieved a remarkable third consecutive win (2024–2026) with her portrayal “Ah Fine-ing He, She and Everybody.” Dressed as a traffic warden, she humorously tackled public reaction to increased road traffic fines, even rolling out long sheets of paper symbolizing hefty penalties issued to motorists. A Social Studies student preparing for CSEC examinations, Smith said her academic studies inspired her to focus on issues affecting everyday citizens. “Everybody is talking about the fines... so I chose a topic people could relate to,” she explained. Ole Mas Facing Challenges, But Still Vital Nearly 30 revellers participated this year, including seasoned performers Margaret Montano and Phillip Montano. However, organisers acknowledged declining attendance and reduced funding. Downtown Carnival Committee chairman Clint Baptiste revealed prize funding had dropped by 30–40% due to reduced subventions, though partnerships with the National Carnival Commission (NCC) are helping offset losses. Chief judge Ezra Joseph stressed that ole mas remains one of Carnival’s most culturally important traditions: “Everything we laugh at as Trinidadians, they research and turn into creativity. It’s vital that this competition continues.” Preserving Carnival’s Satirical Heart While modern Carnival often highlights large bands and high-energy fetes, J’ouvert’s ole mas tradition continues to serve as the festival’s conscience, blending humour, protest, and storytelling. The 2026 competition reaffirmed that even amid smaller crowds, satire and social commentary remain at the core of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival identity.