The Carnival Learning Centre was hugely privileged to receive a visit during August from Trinidadian writer, director and senior authority on Caribbean culture, Tony Hall. Tony was in the UK as a guest of Create. Change on a 3 week Arts Council England-funded residency based at Bradford University.
During his two-day break on the Island, Tony presented a masterclass on Carnival Theatre which was attended by 25 individual carnival practitioners, producers and outdoor performance enthusiasts from as far afield as Wycombe, Brighton and Southampton.
During the two-hour session, Tony urged us to explore our ‘inner warrior’ in a series of practical demonstrations and exercises, which included the finer techniques of stick fighting (some still bear the bruises!). The historical development and evolution of traditional ole mas characters such as Dame Lorraine and Fancy Sailor was discussed, played out and practiced.
Tony’s expertise, energy and charm won the group over and led many to reflect on the scope and range of their own carnival experience. We hope it won’t be too long before he visits us again.
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