Carnival Theme Honours Continent of Never Ending Night
By Dunedin Midwinter Carnival | Posted:
The Dunedin Midwinter Carnival will take place on Saturday 22nd June in the Octagon, in central Dunedin. The event will start at 5.00pm, with the procession beginning at 6.00pm.
As the days grow shorter and the air grows chilly, a team of dedicated artists are busy preparing for one of the city’s most beloved celebrations, where art and performance create a unique and magical event. The Carnival procession is a much anticipated spectacle with over 1,000 people and hundreds of giant, hand crafted lanterns, costumed stilt walkers, dancers and musicians, parading through the Octagon and central city.
This year’s theme is ‘The Never Ending Night’ and will focus on the magic, wildlife and vastness of the world’s southernmost continent, Antarctica. Artistic Director Hannah Johnston said that the Carnival will bring ‘beautiful wildlife, mysterious creatures and colourful characters’ to Dunedin’s street. ‘Given the fragile state of Antarctica’s environment and ecosystem, now is a great time to learn about and celebrate this beautiful, desolate continent.’
‘The Never Ending Night’ will see Dunedin’s streets brought to life with penguins, squid, krill, jellyfish and explorers. ‘Think National Geographic meets a street carnival,’ Ms Johnston said.
Adding to the atmosphere will be live music, dozens of food stalls, lighting effects, roving performers and the spectacular fireworks display.
Public Workshops to be Launched
Lantern-making workshops will be held on the four weekends leading up to the Midwinter Carnival event. This is one more than in previous years with the extra workshop in order to decorate the Octagon. This is a great opportunity for families to participate in the Midwinter Carnival and be involved in a large community event.
Workshop registrations open at 5pm on 1 May and organisers expect all workshops to book out fast. ‘People need to get in quick as spaces are limited and demand is always high,’ said Ms Johnston. Workshop bookings can be made through the Midwinter Carnival website.
ENDS
For more information, interviews and images please contact:
Angus McBryde
Publicist
Dunedin Midwinter Carnival
022 500 7320