Destined to leave an indelible mark on Masqueraders, UWI Carnival has become an annual calendar event, and for 2024 patrons will embrace the rhythm of Rio De Janeiro, transporting revelers to the heart of Brazil’s festive spirit with costumes and events.
The Guild of Students at the University of the West Indies (UWI), launched the carnival festivities, revealing the 13 bands and the major activities for this year on Saturday, (February 10).
The bands reflect some aspects of the vibrant streets of Rio De Janeiro which holds the most famous and largest carnival celebration in the world, yearly.
SLEEK caught up with the Tejano Taylor – Guild Public Relations Officer who gave more insight about UWI Carnival 2024.
These are the Bands and names for UWI carnival 2024; Chancellor Hall – Macaw a colourful-tailed bird found in South America, Taylor Hall – Dancing Bones a species of flowering plant in the cactus family, Irvin Hall – Morpho a large tropical butterfly, Rex Nettleford Hall – Saki arboreal South American monkeys, Mary Seacole – Sugar Loaf a mountain in Rio and Az Preston Hall will use Black Gold a Brazilian municipality located in the state.
The new halls are in the mix, Towers will showcase Samba a Brazilian dance, Leslie Robinson Hall – Toucan one of the most recognizable birds in Brazil with its distinct black plumage, white bib, and large, multi-colored bill, George Alleyne Hall with Amazonia most of the rainforest, 58.4%, is contained within the borders of Brazil.
The other 4 bands are Commuting Students with Copacabana one of Rio’s liveliest neighborhoods, Western Campus – Golden Parakeet a golden-yellow plumage and green flight feathers that match the Brazilian flag, Faculty of Science and Technology –Brazilian Jewel a fascinating species of tarantula found in the rainforests of Brazil. The University of Technology closes it off with Hummingbird/Brazilian Ruby.
Meanwhile, the Guild aims to be on time for its major event – the famous ‘Ring Road’ on March 16.
Before the excitement of the Ring Road, the Sandpit at the Mona Campus will be transformed for their J’ouvert. The carnival activities will end on Sunday, March 17 with a Beach Party at Sugarman’s in Portmore.
The Guild says “Each event promises unforgettable experiences. As we embark on this extraordinary journey, guided by our cultural compass.”
