More details have been released about preparations for the Paralympic Flame Celebration in Bath on Saturday 25th August.
The programme includes a special carnival procession that will weave its way through the city, led by the Paralympic Lantern.
The Council is working with experienced carnival producers ArtReach (www.artreach.biz) and Mandinga Arts (www.mandingaarts.co.uk) to run sessions for children and families in July and August.
Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “The Carnival is the conclusion of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Rio Carnival Quest project which will enable residents right across the district to take part in a unique carnival project over the summer.
“People can get involved in making costumes and masks and learning samba-style drumming and dances to really get in the spirit for our Paralympic Flame Celebration.”
Six costume makers and dancers/choreographers will work with the ArtReach team to support local community participation and making. Recruited artists include Abi Kennedy who has worked in Samba City in Rio contributing to two Rio Carnivals.
The Rio connections continue with Jamma de Samba, an amazing local group that will be bringing the sounds of Brazil to the processional parade.
David Hill, Director of ArtReach, said: “We are delighted to have recruited a number of local artists, including the vibrant Jamma de Samba group, based in Bath, to play a key role in this project.”
The Holburne Museum will be the main rehearsal and assembly point for the Carnival parade, with costumed performers in residence from 23-25 August. The Gateway Centre in Snowhill will be the hub for costume making and animation workshops from the start of the school summer holidays in July.
Residents from across Bath and North East Somerset are welcome to join in with the Rio Carnival Quest by contacting ArtReach by e-mail at [email protected].
The Paralympic Flame Celebration in Bath will be held at the Recreation Ground on Saturday 25th August 2012.
The free event will be open to all, with an emphasis on children, young people and families, and will have the Paralympic values at its core. Further details of the event will be issued at a later date.
Bath and North East Somerset residents can also nominate their local heroes to be one of eight inspirational Paralympic Lantern Bearers by 20th July. For more information visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/flame2012.