A celebration of Reading’s cultural diversity will take over Reading town centre this August. Carnival of the World will be showcasing the music, costumers, flags and performances representing Africa, Asia, South America and Europe as well as the Caribbean at a spectacular Carnival parade.

Supported by Reading Business Improvement District (BID) as part of the ARENA town centre free arts programme for Reading Year of Culture, as well as Arts Council England, Carnival of the World offers an opportunity to get involved  in a unique musical event. There are workshops for:-

• Steel pan music with RASPO Steel Orchestra and guest composer and jazz saxophonist Jason Yarde
• Make carnival headdresses and costumes at weekely workshops with couture fashion and costume designer Melissa Simon-Hartman
• Creat spectacular flags wit in ternational design company Kinetika
• Perform in Reading, Nottingham and at London Notting Hill Carnival
• Develop business skills and work experience with Culture Mix Arts ( 14-19s only)

Bobby Lonergan, BID Manager, said: “Reading BID’s ARENA ars progr4amme celebrates Reading’s creativity and diversity in the heart of the town centre, Culture Mix’s Carnival of the world will showcase Reading’s diverse cultures through the medium of music and dance. We can’t wait!”