Darlington Carnival.

Artists Amy Johnson and Emma Shankland worked with ten community groups in the area. They made individual carnival pieces. These are designed for maximum impact. There are futuristic costumes, Mad Hatter headgear, and Can- Can girls. They share space with creatures of the past, present and future. Setting the tone is a caterpillar, an alien, and a dragonfly, in order to foster delightful shock and awe.

Leading the procession is the Rhythm Train Samba Band, followed by a stilt walker, and dancers from Red Hall. Roaring behind them is the giant dinosaur, and representations from Hummersknott School, Chinese Group and band. This is just for starters! There are at least four other music inspired groups in the festival, including the Funky Junk Orchestra.

It promises to be a fun, lively occasion, a spectacular canvas of colour and rhythm. Street Theatre, Melting Pot Arts, and children from the town’s schools, including Dodmire and Cockerton Primary,are all displaying their creative talent. Keeping the show moving are jugglers, dancers, and gymnasts.

Richmond’s Pipes and Drums provide the end point in the parade, for the 350 expected participants. They all aim to bring the streets of Darlington alive with a unique joy.