New Carnival present 2024’s Isle of Wight Mardi Gras, The Story of Carnival, on Saturday 6th July in Ryde.
This year over 20 school and community groups will take part with handmade costumes created on the theme of ‘Story of Carnival’. Groups have explored celebrations from early history and how these developed into a worldwide carnival culture.
The context of a global scene
The Isle of Wight carnivals are some of the oldest in the country, dating back to 1887, the parade explores the context of a global scene, traditions which have endured through the ages and to the future.
2024 marks the UK ratifying UNESCO’s ‘Intangible cultural heritage’ a move which will officially recognise, not just old buildings/ artifacts as heritage, but things like carnival, music, and dance.
Where and when
The parade will leave Simeon Recreation ground at 3pm, watch in the town around 3.30-4pm.
The parade goes along the Strand, up Dover Street, along Cross street and down Union Street to end up along the Esplanade and back at Simeon.
‘Mini Mardi Gras’
On Saturday 6th July, from 11am- 2.30pm ‘Mini Mardi Gras’ is back, this year located at Simeon Recreation ground. Aimed at younger children and their families. Free workshops and activities with the opportunity to join in the carnival parade.
The quiet zone, for those who prefer to see the spectacle without the noise, will be towards the end of the parade, near the boating lake and toilets at the end of the Esplanade. If getting into Ryde is not possible then ‘Go Live Granny’ will also be broadcasting the event, with a live commentary.
Zodiac dancers and more
The amazing young Zodiac dancers are back again from Nottingham, their high energy performance is not to be missed.
Look out for the new giant green man puppet, created by New Carnival artists and volunteers in a masterclass with internationally renowned Thingumigig theatre.
‘Big Cardboard heads’
Three incredible, and amusing, ‘Big Cardboard heads’ based on traditional Commedia del Arte characters, have been created by adults on an IW Adult and Community Learning course.
Re-purposed Rio costumes
Global links include authentic Rio costumes that have been shipped in and re-purposed, a partnership with ‘Sustenta Carnaval’ in Brazil which saves costumes from landfill and supports local and indigenous communities in Brazil.
Isle of Wight college students performing arts students will be presenting this ‘Rio’ Section with help behind the scenes from New Carnivals Youth group. The Isle of Wight Indonesian community shared ‘Batik festivals’, their history, and meanings, with local Island families in a workshop funded by Sovereign Housing, resulting in a set of truly exceptional costumes.
Support from partners
The Isle of Wight Mardi Gras, supported by Ryde Town Council and Arts Council England, allows children, young people, and community groups to design and create costumes, showcasing their creative and performance skills. A joyful, colourful spectacle which delights audiences young and old.
For more information, and to download the full event programme, visit the website.
News shared by Gemma on behalf of New Carnival. Ed
