By St. Paul’s News Team
August 2 2026 | Music
The sweet sounds of steelpan rang out across St. John’s on Saturday night as the Caribbean Union Bank Hells Gate Steel Orchestra emerged victorious in the 2026 State Insurance Company Ltd. Panorama Competition.
Hells Gate delivered a powerful performance that captivated the audience and secured the coveted Panorama title, bringing another exciting chapter of Antigua and Barbuda’s steel orchestra tradition to a thrilling close.
The competition, held on Saturday night at the Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG), showcased some of the country’s finest steelpan talent, with bands bringing energy, creativity and passion to the stage.
The Caribbean Union Bank Hells Gate Steel Orchestra claimed the championship, while West Indies Oil Gemonites Steel Orchestra finished as first runner-up. Halcyon Steel Orchestra secured the second runner-up position.
The night was marked by an electric atmosphere as arrangers, supporters and music lovers came together to celebrate one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most cherished cultural traditions.
From the first notes to the final performance, the competition demonstrated the depth of talent within the nation’s steelpan movement, with each orchestra bringing its own sound, style and interpretation to the stage.
The success of the event was also a testament to the dedication of the arrangers and players who spent countless hours preparing for Panorama, as well as the loyal supporters whose energy helped make the competition a memorable celebration of Antiguan culture.
With Hells Gate now holding the 2026 crown, the orchestra has added another significant achievement to its history, while the performances of all the competing bands reinforced the strength and vitality of steel orchestra music in Antigua and Barbuda.
The rhythm was felt, the culture was celebrated, and Hells Gate has officially been crowned the 2026 Panorama champions.
Photos by Wayne Mariette