Carnival to bring explosion of colour to city streets as Sunderland emerges from lockdown

Carnival Unlocked will feature stilt-walkers, colourful performers, live music, carnival games and more when it takes place on June 26, following the planned easing of social distancing restrictions on June 21.

It’s being staged by Creative Seed from their base at Carnival House in Southwick and will take in the surrounding area.

Community interest company Creative Seed transformed the once derelict St Hilda’s Parish Centre in The King’s Road in summer last year, but the multi-purpose arts space and cafe has not yet been able to reach its full potential due to the pandemic.

But with the country emerging from lockdown, it’s hoped the community will be able to fully enjoy a taster of the arts space which specialises in carnival performances.

Carnival Unlocked will be split into two sections with a free carnival during the day for all the family. Meanwhile, the evening event is more geared towards adults. It will take place inside, and will be ticketed, featuring live music, DJs and surprise performances.

Event coordinator Claire Sacco said: “We haven’t been able to have carnivals and parades for 18 months and we feel like this is just what the city needs after lockdown.

"This is the first time we’ll have been able to get everyone in costume and to properly perform for the public since we opened. We can’t wait to have people come through the doors and reach our full potential as a venue.”

More details on Carnival Unlocked will be announced in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, children’s arts, crafts and music classes have already resumed and outdoor seating is available for dining in the cafe.

From May 17, people will be able to eat inside the venue and adult classes will also be available to book. Other highlights in the coming weeks including a pop up art gallery, craft market and more.

On May 22 there will be a day of live music and food taking place indoors from 11am to 4pm with performances from Lauren Amour and Arian Starfield. Tickets can be booked through the Carnival House facebook page or on www.creativeseed.org

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