A large scale theatrical experience for the whole school and perfect for Diversity Week, Arts Week, Enrichment days, Black History Month or an end of term celebration.
Born from the spirit of the Notting Hill Carnival and the legacy of Claudia Jones, Time To Carnival is Bigfoot’s interactive Notting Hill Carnival drama experience for KS1 and KS2. Filled with music, movement, storytelling and colour, it brings the history of the Carnival to life through live performance that puts pupils right at the heart of the celebration. A truly unforgettable Big Experience for the whole school.
Pupils arrive to find their school hall transformed. Ribbons run the length of the space. Music is playing. And somewhere in the room, Spirit is waiting. When this extraordinary character bursts into view, the Carnival of Heroes begins. Together with a Bigfoot facilitator, Spirit takes pupils on a journey through the history of the Notting Hill Carnival, from Claudia Jones’ founding vision in the 1950s to its place today as Europe’s greatest celebration of Caribbean culture and community. Scarves, music, rhythm and storytelling bring each chapter to life, as pupils discover the heroes behind the Carnival and what it truly means to celebrate who you are.
“One of the best theatre visits we’ve ever had at our school. All the children were fully immersed and engaged. Full of energy, and a brilliant way to celebrate Black British History.” — Philippa Stubbs, Beaconsfield Primary School
LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Discover the origins and history of the Notting Hill Carnival and the legacy of Claudia Jones
- Explore the concept of heroism and identify Black British heroes past and present
- Celebrate Caribbean culture, music and heritage through active participation in live performance
- Develop oracy, listening and teamwork skills through drama, discussion and whole group activity
- Understand the importance of community, diversity and cultural celebration in British society
NATIONAL CURRICULUM LINKS
- History (KS1/KS2): Black British history; the Windrush generation; the Notting Hill Carnival and its origins; significant individuals including Claudia Jones
- PSHE and SMSC: Celebrating diversity and cultural identity; understanding community and belonging; British values of tolerance and mutual respect
- English (Speaking and Listening): Responding to live performance; participating in discussion; developing vocabulary around heritage, identity and heroism
- Music: Exploring Caribbean musical traditions including Calypso and Soca; rhythm, percussion and movement
- Drama: Responding to and participating in live interactive theatre; physical and vocal warm up; storytelling through performance
FORMAT
Target Audience: KS1 and KS2 (Years 1 to 6)
Performance: 60 minutes (We can deliver up to 4 x 1 hour experiences over a day)
Capacity: Up to 120 pupils per session
Resource Pack: A comprehensive teacher resource pack is included with every booking, packed with pre and post activities that extend the learning and bring Time To Carnival into the classroom.
For us to quote your school and offer availability, please fill out the form below and tell us the year groups and how many classes you would like us to work with, along with any specific dates. We promise to respond to you within 24 hours. Important: if you haven’t heard from us, you may need to check your folder of doom (spam folder) where our emails may occasionally end up!
