Returning to the carnival for the second year running, RNC students were keen to build on last year’s achievement of third place in the Large Group category. This year’s carnival theme, Down on the Farm, provided the perfect inspiration for a creative and memorable performance that mixed farmyard fun with festival vibes. Complete with handmade decorations, colourful tie-dye bucket hats (made by Julie), dancing animals and a crowd-pleasing chant of “E-I-E-I-O… TECHNO!”, the group brought smiles to spectators throughout the parade.
Nine students took part in the parade, dressing up as a range of farmyard animals and festival ravers, including pigs, cows, a horse, sheep, a chicken, a goat and a panda. Leading the parade was DJ MacDonald, complete with a giant corn-on-the-cob prop that helped keep the Farmyard Rave moving and encouraged plenty of audience participation along the route.
The project was led by RNC’s Mel Davies, who dedicated an enormous amount of time, creativity and enthusiasm to preparing the group for the event. Over four weekend carnival workshops, students worked together to create and paint an impressive range of decorations, props and displays. The workshops gave students the opportunity to develop creative skills, work collaboratively and play an active role in shaping every aspect of the carnival entry.
As the parade made its way through Monmouth, students danced, waved and entertained the crowds, creating a fantastic atmosphere and receiving a warm response from spectators throughout the route.
The hard work paid off when the results were announced and RNC were awarded first place, prompting celebrations from students, staff and supporters alike.
Student Mollie Walker summed up the excitement of the moment, saying:
I feel so happy right now, we came first!
As well as taking home first place, the group won a £200 prize, which will be donated to RNC’s Art Department to support future creative projects. The award was a fitting recognition of the imagination, teamwork and dedication shown by everyone involved in bringing the Farmyard Rave to life.
The success of the Farmyard Rave was also made possible by the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff team who supported the project and accompanied students on the day. Special thanks go to Anna, Debs, Ulia, Alice, Bek, Beki, Jess, and especially to Mel, whose creativity, vision and commitment over months of planning and four weekend workshops helped turn an idea into an award-winning carnival entry.