Carnival and the performance of heritage - for iPod/iPhone
Behind the vibrant costumes and pulsating music of London's Notting Hill Carnival lies a profound and layered history, one that connects continents and centuries. Carnival and the performance of heritage-for iPod/iPhone, from The Open University, delves into this rich tapestry, moving far beyond the idea of a simple street celebration. This educational podcast offers an insider's perspective, guided by the voices of those who have shaped the Carnival into what it is today. You'll hear how its story is woven from threads that reach into the darkest recesses of European tradition, traverse the brutal landscapes of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade, and confront the realities of a racist Britain in the mid-20th century. Each episode explores how contemporary expressions merge with art forms whose roots travel back through Caribbean slave plantations to tribal Africa, demonstrating how heritage is actively performed and reinvented. Listening to this series reveals the Carnival as a living, breathing act of memory and resistance. It’s a deep exploration of culture, identity, and survival, making this podcast an essential journey for anyone curious about the powerful forces that dance beneath the surface of one of the world's largest festivals.
