The valley Boys Present: New Year’s 2010
“Illusions of Carnival – the Mystique of the mask”
Introduction
Carnival, Mardi Gras or Masquerade is celebrated throughout the world in different formats, venues and for different reasons. Although different in many ways, depending on which country you experience Carnival in, one aspect of carnival that is unique wherever you go is the significance of the ‘Mask’. In some aspects Carnival is similar to our premiere cultural festival Junkanoo, which also has a close relationship with the Mask. Carnival however, normally takes place before Lent in January and February although Masquerades (Costume Balls) can take place during other seasons or special occasions.
Carnival typically involves a public celebration or parade showcasing cultural performances and public street parties. People often dress up or ‘masquerade’ during the celebrations and sometimes there is a prize for the best performance or costume.
The mystique surrounding the Masks worn at various Carnivals is significant as the ‘Mask’ allows the masqueraders, normally from different socio-economic backgrounds, to disguise themselves as they join in the festivities.
Execution of Theme
Our New Year’s Day presentation will showcase in costume, music and dance a few of the Carnivals celebrated throughout the world mainly those in Europe (Venice Italy), the Caribbean and South America (Latin America). We will highlight the elaborate costumes (gowns) and big hats worn at Venice Carnival and at the Masquerade Balls of Europe, the various types of Masks worn during Carnival (particularly the Venetian Masks) and we will perform some of the music and dance associated with various Carnival. Just like the Carnivals in the Caribbean and Latin America, the Valley Boys will parade according to a Colour code i.e. each section will have a primary colour: Pink, Orange, Blue, Green, Gold, Yellow, Purple, Red and White.
Banner – The banner depicts the many faces and masks seen at Carnival
Over all Group Costume
Off –the –shoulder
1. Carnival Dream
2. Behind The Mask
3. Grand Entrance
4. Two Faced
5. Life of the party
6. Carnival Love affair
7. Sunrise at last
8. Royal Serenity ( the mask set-in a peacock arrangement and elegant jewels)
9. Essence of Tranquility (the majestic wings of butterflies)
10. Venetian FANTSEY (an assortment of facial expressions set in an arrangement of fans)
Choreograph Section – The Masks of Carnival
Brass – Brass Musicians depict invited guest to masquerade ball. They are wearing a shoulder piece with feathers on one side and a skirt with feathers on the other side.
Drummers – Drummers are wearing a checkered cardboard skirt and a half mask hat.
Bellers – Cow Bell ringers are depicting the various Venetian masks and faces found at ‘Venice Carnival’
Lead Costume – One- “THE SPIRIT OF VENICE”
As everyone flocks to the streets of the Palazzo, ready to take part or participate in this timeless tradition, the mood changes as eyes glare behind masks of unknown faces. Carnival is here! The festival which started centuries ago echoes in corners and alley ways as class and status vanishes, the common man and woman adorn mask and dresses of beautiful array, ready to go to the ball. “Dolce Carnival” rings out! We invite you to join in the SPIRIT OF CARNIVAL and THE SPIRIT OF VENICE as we take you across the globe to a place where the language is different, but the feeling and excitement is the same. This costume depicts masqueraders of various colours and traditions each adorned in a different dress.
As carnival approaches and everyone abandons themselves and begin to play this party takes place in
Ballrooms, street corners and even on the water. So join in the fun as this journey takes you through the colour, the feeling and the “Spirit of Venice”.
Lead Costume – Two – River Ride at the Masquerade Ball
The costume features a King and Queen as its focal point. It’s the beginning of a romantic evening with the intended destination being to end up at a masquerade ball. The stars twinkle in the black velvet sky the rhythmic waves lap against the hull and sides of the vessel as the boat cuts a path through the water. The air is thick with expectancy and excitement as the couple gazes across to the distant shore in true masquerade fashion they are wearing masks. The event is just across the harbour. This costume is set against the backdrop of a starry evening on a shimmering river where a man ferries the Royal Couple over to the romantic festivities.
The costume paints the picture of a real Venice-like evening with a gondolier skillfully and powerfully thrusting the vessel forward. The Royal Couple eager to reach the ball, but at the same time not wanting to cut short the stirring boat ride which ferry them there.
Join us on this journey to the unknown thrill that beckons….that teases…that calls out to you from just beyond the shore.
Music & Performance – contemporary Bahamian, Soca, Calypso and Junkanoo music will be performed with local and international dance including ‘the dance of the unknown’. Some of the music and dance performed are similar to those performed at Carnival, Mardi Gras and Masquerade.
***The Valley Boys***