Children from Brydekirk Primary School are stepping into the spotlight as they join 18 classes from 15 schools across the region for the much-anticipated return of the Dumfries Carnival, produced by Big Burns Supper.
For their inaugural participation, Brydekirk Primary is working with emerging local dance artist Sommer Pool. Sommer, who has previously supported various dance groups, is undertaking her first professional project through the carnival, marking a significant milestone in her artistic career. Her involvement aligns with Big Burns Supper’s Producers of the Future initiative, which has offered workplace learning opportunities to over 200 young people since its inception in 2012.
The 2024 Dumfries Carnival explores the town’s history from 1958 to 2058. Brydekirk Primary’s contribution celebrates the vibrant culture of the 1990s and the opening of the Ice Bowl in Dumfries. Inspired by the Solway Sharks, the school has been crafting elaborate costumes and choreographing movements that bring the era to life. Adding authenticity to their performance, the youth development team from the Solway Sharks will join the children in full hockey gear for a dynamic collaboration.
“We are thrilled to see Brydekirk Primary bring their creativity and energy to the Dumfries
Carnival for the first time,” said Associate Director Justin Hyslop.“This project not only celebrates our shared history but also fosters collaboration between schools, artists, and the community. It’s wonderful to see the children working with Sommer Pool, whose journey as an emerging artist reflects the spirit of innovation and opportunity that Big Burns Supper is all about.”
Pre-Carnival Excitement Kicks Off December 30th The celebrations begin early this year with the launch of Super Lantern Hubs on 30th December. These hubs, held across Dumfries, are like a festival within the festival, offering family-focused entertainment and free lantern-making activities to brighten up the Christmas holidays. Each event features a unique programme tailored to children and families, ensuring accessible fun for everyone. Key partners, including Dumfries Ice Bowl and Queen of the South, are collaborating to deliver these lively pre-Carnival hubs.
Carnival Weekend Highlights
The Dumfries Carnival weekend, running 17th-19th January, will include:
● Lantern Procession and Parade: A spectacular display of light and creativity, beginning
on George Street at 5 PM on 18th January.
● ‘Borealis’ Light and Sound Installation: A breathtaking free experience running for
three days.
● Family Hub on the High Street: A welcoming space offering £3 shows and activities for
all ages, including toddler play sessions, the Kingdom of Creatures, poetry
performances, musical bingo, a family ceilidh, and even a Taylor Swift tribute act.
● Food Market and Free Music Stage: Enjoy a three-day street food market and
performances by community musicians at Queensberry Square.
● Haggis Hunt and Ghostly Tales: Unique local-themed activities for the whole family.
Spotlight on Local Artists
The Carnival wouldn’t be possible without the incredible contributions of local talent:
● Hollie Carey, Carnival Dance Artist from Dumfries and director of Next Level School of
Dance.
● Ashley Wells Candlish, Carnival Dance Artist and leader of Attitude Dance School.
● Ryan Watson, Carnival Float Design and Construction Artist, former Visual Artist of the
Year (D&G Life Awards), and mentor to emerging visual artists.
● Sommer Pool, an emerging dance artist making her professional debut.
Preparations for the carnival have been underway since August, with all participating classes receiving free sessions to develop their performances.
For more information about Big Burns Supper, including the full Carnival schedule and Super Lantern Hubs, visit www.bigburnssupper.com/lanterns.
