A songbook about the Caribbean during World War II, inherited from her father, sparked the curiosity of singer Izaline Calister. She knew many songs but little about their background. What happened during WWII in the West Indies?

She learned about attacks by German submarines, the crucial role of oil refineries, and the presence of American troops. Despite fear and uncertainty, which sometimes led to disorder, people kept singing and dancing to tropical rhythms like calypso, tumba, and reggae. In addition, American soldiers brought their films and music. The Caribbean people enjoyed these but also voiced criticism of the American presence, as reflected in the protest song Rum and Coca Cola.

Izaline’s theater concert Rum and Coca Cola is a vibrant cocktail of music and stories about the “forgotten” war in the West Indies.