Padarath: Our nation has lost an icon

MP for Princes Town Barry Padarath expressed condolences to the family and loved ones of Shirley “Beulah” King on behalf of the Opposition. Padarath stated that with King’s passing, Trinidad and Tobago had lost a true icon and that the theater and drama fraternity in our country is today poorer without her presence.

Padarath recalled that as a child and like many other citizens he grew up watching the comedies and dramatic pieces portrayed by King. Her love for Trinidad and Tobago knew no bounds and she took every criticism, every praise and every recommendation with a hearty smile which was her trademark.
Padarath said that he hoped that the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts would find an appropriate way to pay tribute to the legacy of Shirley “Beulah” King.

MP Padarath in his tribute to Shirley “Beulah” King, stated that personalities like King, Hazel Ward Redman and Allyson Henessey had a profound impact on the lives of many Trinbagonians who tuned in religiously everyday.

He further stated that King and others were invited into our nation’s homes every day and they were a part of our routines and our daily lives. They taught us to deal with joy, uncertainty, challenges and sorrow and often brought us relief even if it was temporary during our most trying times.

Padarath indicated that he had the fortunate pleasure to meet Shirley “Beulah” King and that she once remarked that her greatest joy was making others laugh. He further stated that “Beulah Darling” made many of us laugh and brought a lot of happiness to our lives and for that she will always be remembered.

Padarath also called on the media to honour King’s legacy by documenting her work and having it aired.