Call for Participants for St Patrick's Day Parade

Organisers want to hear from groups who have ideas of how they would interpret the theme and make their group unique within the parade, especially imaginative ideas that showcase either Springtime and Wonderland or both. It may be a representation of Alice's magical Wonderland or it may a group's very own unique wonderland with a springtime twist! Other suggestions include ideas that capture Springtime, which is a time of growth, renewal and of new plant and animal life.

A range of carnival workshops will be available for everyone interested in taking part in this wonderful spectacle of colour, illusion and drama which is now recognised as one of the most entertaining and creative parades in the North of Ireland on St Patrick's Day.

Workshops could include mask making, dance, percussion, costume design and making, fabric painting and carnival prop building. These will take place in various community centres and local venues across the city and offer opportunities to learn new skills and prepare you for the wonderful finale parade.

The North West Carnival Initiative are also calling on established arts and community organisations who have existing collaborative links that readily facilitate the creation of pageants.  Freelance artists who possess carnival art and/or community engagement expertise are also sought, to contribute innovative ideas for creating carnival spectacles.

The deadline for pageant applications is Thursday 21st January at 12.00 noon. For further information regarding the pageant application process please contact the Carnival Officer on 71 365151 or email helen.harley@derrycity.gov.uk.  This project is core funded by National Lottery funds through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Derry City Council.