UTT Ph.D. student Krisson Joseph performs with the National Steel Symphony Orchestra at the National Acacdemy for the Performing Arts (NAPA).

The University of Trinidad and Tobago’s (UTT) Academy of Arts, Letters, Culture and Public Affairs (ALCPA) provides the space for research, public discourse and an indepth analysis of issues central to the development and sustainability of the local culture and artform. In this environment, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the field of study, as they are exposed to the many facets of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity.

“This space facilitates my creativity and fuels my aspiration on becoming a cultural ambassador,” according to Doctor of Philosophy student, Krisson Joseph.

Krisson, a well-known vocalist, is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Carnival Studies, under the supervision of renowned calypsonian, historian and academic, Professor Hollis Liverpool, “The Mighty Chalkdust”. Assuming dual roles, he also serves as Programme Coordinator of UTT’s ALCPA.

Having been a student of New York University’s (NYU) Music Business Graduate Programme, Krisson realised, due in part to his Liberal Arts education, that it was his desire to spend his life in service to the development of the Arts.

Krisson’s experience in the Arts extends beyond the stage. For nine (9) years he concentrated on the administrative component of the Arts, having worked as UTT’s Academy for the Performing Arts (APA). During his tenure, he developed and taught courses, many times accompanying colleagues and students on musical productions.

Performances integrating Calypso music come most naturally to him, as he has been the beneficiary of informal calypso tutelage all his life. His father, Seadly Joseph, “The Mighty Penguin”, served as President of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) and was also hailed as one of the top fifty (50) calypsonians of the 20th century. With an innate appreciation of the local artform, Krisson takes great pride in all things Trinidad and Tobago, having worked alongside the Malick Folk Performing Company, The UWI Arts Chorale and the Picoplat Music Development Foundation. He believes that UTT’s ALCPA provides a holistic understanding of the local Carnival industry, and also allows him to maintain strong ties to the creative happenings and understandings of his native Trinidad and Tobago.

As Krisson pursues this new academic challenge, he is once again focused on how to best leverage his work to benefit all stakeholders locally, regionally and internationally. The Academies at UTT have brought the University’s vision of socioeconomic transformation to life, through the promotion of intrinsic skills, talent and knowledge. As a result, Krisson feels confident that UTT, the national University, will continue to provide a fertile ground for the support and realisation of his pursuit of excellence.