For the fourth year running, Opera Holland Park (OHP) will host a four-day celebration of carnival culture. The series was announced at the Notting Hill Carnival media launch on 11 July.
Three nights are left at OHP with Brazilian bands in the spotlight tonight Thursday 15 August. Among those taking part in Samba Spectacular will be Batalá, Baque de Axé, Dendê Nation, Império da Rainha, London School of Samba and Paraíso Samba School. The following night is called Pan Jazz, featuring Anne Fridal, which needs no further explanation. This has proved a popular and successful format, marrying (usually solo) steelpan with a band.
For the past three years, Saturday night has been reserved for one or two visiting calypso and soca artists – David Rudder, Crazy and Red Plastic have all wowed the crowd at Holland Park. This year, for Calypso in the Park, we will be hearing from a cross-section of UK kaiso talent and experience: Alexander D Great, D’Alberto, Deevine, Giselle, G-String, Ms Desire, Patriot, Rev B and Tobago Crusoe.
All shows begin at 7.30 pm. The venue is covered but outdoors – something to bear in mind if the weather is chilly, wet or windy. The nearest Tube stations are Kensington High Street and Holland Park.
The price for each night is £15 + £3.75 booking fee available from the Opera Holland Park box office, or call 0300 999 1000.
