Single Channel Video Installation Duration 11minutes
Directed by Buster Grey-Jung Music by Space Afrika
‘The Parade’ captures the last minute preparations of several carnival groups in the lead up to Notting Hill Carnival 2018. This short documentary celebrates the artistry, passion and hard work that goes into making the event happen each year.
The Notting Hill carnival began in the 1960’s to improve race relations and has since evolved into a celebration of African-Caribbean culture that now attracts participants and audience members from a diverse global community. It is Europe’s largest street parade, with an estimated two million people attending the carnival in 2018. The Mas bands are groups of ‘masqueraders’ in elaborate themed costumes that dance through the streets, forming an integral part of the Carnival procession. The Carnival further diversified in 1984 with the appearance of the London School of Samba, which gave way to the growing involvement of Brazilian bands. Many of these bands involve their local communities working together throughout the year to produce costumes, dance choreography and music – blending traditional styles with modern themes and ideas.
Every year colourful images from the parade saturate the Internet, magazines and newspapers. ‘The Parade to Notting Hill’ reveals what happens behind the scenes and explores the ‘between’ states where aspects of carnival culture seep into the everyday - the vibrant, imaginative costumes and energetic dance routines, juxtaposed with day-to-day clothing in faded community centres. The film and photography reveal the on going work of these carnival groups in nurturing the artistic skills and creativity of their members, whilst shedding light on the challenges faced and the struggle for funding and support.
