Award winning Arcadia Spectacular are set to take part in Bridgwater Carnival 2018.
The performance art collective, who combine elements of sculpture, architecture, recycling, pyrotechnics, lighting, circus and music, into large scale performances and dance spaces, will be showcasing their unique creation The Bug in the High Street just before the carnival procession arrives on Saturday 3 November.
This special appearance by Arcadia Spectacular, who are based in Bristol and who regularly perform at Glastonbury Festival, has been made possible after Arts Council England (ACE) awarded Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival a grant of £32,125 for this year’s carnival activities. This is in recognition for the valuable role which Bridgwater Carnival plays in the local community and towards the organisation’s many external activities, which includes working with local schools, partnering with touring groups and supporting the local arts scene.
The Bug is a six-wheeled amphibious installation whose wings are built from submarine parts, and unfurl to reveal a fully rigged, mobile stage. Earlier this year it took part in Bristol’s St Paul’s Carnival where it was transformed into a float through close collaboration with carnival artists, dancers and the community.
Dave Croker, chairman of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, said: “It gives us great pleasure in welcoming Arcadia Spectacular to Bridgwater Carnival this year, and I am sure the atmosphere during their performance will be absolutely electrifying and something not to be missed, they will be performing initially on the Cornhill at 7pm, then on to the High Street and Mount Street.
“We would like to thank Arts Council England for their continued support with our activities, and for facilitating us in developing and strengthening partnerships with other carnival groups.”