Carnivale - Its hip to da hop (and so much more)!

Yo Yo Yo,

Ya'll gotta come check out Indigenous Carnivale on 26th May at the Manning Bar Usyd. My mate Jack decided to get this gig started in 2005, and seeing it as a worthwhile cause i offered to help out where possible.

The First Carnivale in 2005 was a massive success given its first year trial and the negative stereotypes that often surround Indigenous peoples. Approximately 500 people from many diferent walks of life turned out to pay respect to the traditional owners and to the people who were taken away from their families in one of the saddest eras in the world. It really provided a respectful and fun environment where people could just relax, listen to awesome performers (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous) and party together as if it was 1973 (thats the year billabong was created - what a brand!) All in all it was a very peaceful, unifying and fun night with plenty of shared stories, respect and laughter.

Last year's carnivale was an even bigger success as word of mouth from 2005 ensured that approximately 800-1000 people turned out for the event - Manning Bar was packed! Sometimes when there are massive crowds like last year, the mood within the event can change. This was not the case with carnivale, however, as people were really willing to just chill, listen, laugh, be respectful and most of all dance (i like dancing - its awesome, i shake a leg heaps good!). At the event we were pleasured by some hip hop groups and so much more. The highlights for me were Emma Donovan with her soulfoul lyrics talking about her stories as an Aboriginal person from the north coast of NSW (you represent sista), and Blue King Brown with their powerful political messages - all the performers rocked the cazbar!

In closing, the 5 buck entry fee is so so soo worthwhile as you'll have the party of your life, share in respect and contribute to the AIME Indigenous Mentoring Program that is one of the most unique and successful campaigns to come out of the country.

Carnivale - hip to da hop and so much more! BE THERE