BOTH PRIME Minister P.J. Patterson and JLP leader Edward Seaga yesterday expressed condolences at the passing of theatre icon Eric 'Chalk Talk' Coverley.
Mr. Patterson said that Mr. Coverley and his wife, Louise Bennett, formed a "royal family" of Jamaican theatre, giving their patronage and encouragement to several generations of young artistes.
"As an impresario, he contributed to the legend of Christmas morning concerts and other distinctly Jamaican entertainment events," Mr. Patterson said. "His creativity also extended to the design and crafting of spectacular floats for national parades. It is ironic that he passed away in the very season when the art was revived to enhance our celebration of Jamaica's 40th."
Edward Seaga said that Mr. Coverley was one of the pioneers of Jamaican theatre, and as an actor, comedian and mentor, made a remarkable contribution to Jamaican theatre.
He conveyed his condolences to a grieving 'Miss Lou' at her home in Canada via telephone yesterday. He assured her that the nation would not forget the pioneering work done by her husband, at a time when theatre was extremely important to the general culture and social life of the country.
The two leaders described Mr. Coverley as the "consummate good citizen", one who "thrilled Jamaicans for many decades".
"He was able to grasp the spirit of the Jamaican people and showcase it in a positive way," Mr. Seaga said. "It is this that makes it so easy to appreciate him."
Mr. Coverley died in his sleep at his home in Toronto at the age of 91.
