My engagement in Carnival is determined by 2 aspirations.
To champion the Mas Camp as a cutting-edge creative crucible, a central communal combative centre where aspiring & experienced creatives can take artistic risks, experiment & innovate in Carnival’s three genres – Mas, Music, Movement – with a Message and a bit of Mayhem. The 5 M&Ms of Carnival.
To curate and adjudicate the development of UK Carnivals as event & art in the public realm. I want to stamp my distinctive artistic preferences & cultural imperatives on Carnival’s Artscape & mediate where creativity, community, modernity, tradition, Millennials & Gen Z, environmental responsibility and Britishness fit in. In a nutshell, where are we going with Afro-Beats, Pretty Mas & Wukking Up?
I voted in 2006 to bestow “National Status” to Carnival. We failed.
Whether it is Notting Hill, Derby, Leeds or Oxford, these Carnivals bring together a plethora of constituencies & communities; major contributors to the local economy, tourist attraction & unique platform for quality, excellence & innovation in the celebration, enjoyment & making of Carnival arts. We occupy the public realm with grandeur; a triumphant occupation of space.
My vision remains for young and old; black and white; Richard Renwick and Morcea Walker; Indo- Afro- Sino- Euro-Caribbeans; Pretty Mas and Camboulay Mas; Local Authorities and Carnival troupes, every element of Carnival to work collectively & in partnership, encouraging everyone to immerse themselves in the infectious rhythms & vibrant energy of Carnival music, traditional & modern dances & unforgettable performances in theatrical costuming that bring a unique blend of Caribbean beats & soulful lyrics, creating an electrifying atmosphere that transcends boundaries. From heart-pounding grooves to uplifting anthems, Soca, Zouk & Salsa, our performance is a celebration of life, love & the undeniable spirit of the Caribbean.
Ansel Wong CBE
