Notting Hill Carnival Wraps Up With Diverse Performances and Bajan Representation

London’s Notting Hill Carnival concluded last week Monday after a week of frenetic activity and sunshine.

Although there have been no Bajan bands in recent years since the demise of Bajan Revellers, Barbadians were represented on the road in sections of larger outlets like bandleader Steve Clarke in United Colours of Mass (UCOM) Credible and Chocolate Mas Bands, while UK-based Bajan entertainers like Devine, Ms Desire, Admiral and Terrah Dah performed on local stages throughout the festival.

Throughout the week, the Holland Park Opera Marquee was a hub of diverse entertainment, featuring a rich variety of performances including steelband, pan jazz, Brazilian, and calypsonians on consecutive nights. This tapestry of performances catered to a wide range of tastes, guaranteeing entertainment at all levels.

The Friday night was a high-energy affair with the appearance of Bajan soca queen Alison Hinds opening the bill at the biggest soca event in London. Organised by Tipsy Entertainment, the event drew an estimated audience of 8 000 at Wembley arena. The line-up, which included Bunji Garlin, Skinny Fabulous and Machel Montano as the headline acts, created an atmosphere of pure energy, especially for the majority of young females, who comprised about 80 per cent of the audience. (TR)