Sequins, Soca and Sweat, is the debut documentary by award-winning filmmaker Stephen Rudder. The film follows six Mas camps in the weeks leading up to Notting Hill Carnival and captures the unique atmosphere of camp life. It gives insight into the spectrum of participants ranging from the originators of the carnival tradition to the progressive new wave of younger influence.

We see Lawrence Noel, who brought the first costumes to the streets of Notting Hill in 1973 and represents the original essence of Carnival, juxtaposed with PoisonUK, a camp increasing in popularity which brings the younger, progressive partying carnival spirits to the forefront.

Rudder’s interest in making a documentary on Carnival was first sparked in 2003. At the Notting Hill Carnival he saw a young boy with a horn in one hand and the other around the shoulder of his grandmother as they danced together in costume. He was intrigued by how this spectacular art form had the power to bring together generations. And when Carole Morrison, the films Executive Producer, was looking to commission a documentary about the Mas in Notting Hill, Rudders initial seed of interest had the chance to grow.

When the Director looked behind the mask of the masquerade, he found a small group of artists, designers, innovators and pioneers who somehow managed to nourish their communities and inspire the younger generations, whilst also forming the backbone of the largest street festival in Europe. Sequins, Soca and Sweat is their story.

This is a Black History Month screening