The Notting Hill’s group from UK was a resounding success in the 2011 Seychelles Carnival and has been undisputedly awarded the Best International Float trophy.
The reputed Notting Hill carnival was one of over 20 international floats taking part in the islands’ very first international carnival, which took place in the heart of the capital – Victoria – last weekend.
Three days of exciting carnival activities literally brought the whole Seychelles population to the streets in Victoria, and the Notting Hill Carnival Delegation became a favourite from day 1 when several of their extravagant costumes were displayed at the opening ceremony.
The colourful and attractive costumes were a new attraction for the Seychellois public, and it was no surprise that Notting Hill was widely tipped to take the best international float award. Members of the group braved the blazing sun and enthralled spectators who had lined both sides of the streets on the day of the carnival parade on Saturday, March 5.
A member of the group, as well as the British High Commissioner to Seychelles, Mathew Forbes, received the winning trophy during the Carnival´s closing ceremony from the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Alain St.Ange, and Minister Bernard Shamlaye, the Seychelles Minister of Culture. The second prize was won by the Indonesian delegation who fielded four different groups in the float parade. Each of them represented a province and gave a good insight into their diverse and rich culture. Their soft traditional music complemented their beautiful costumes, which were a delight for the crowd.
The big and colourful delegation from Zimbabwe took third position in their traditional costumes, which highlighted the African continent’s contribution to the carnival theme, “Melting Pot of Cultures.” Sounds from their musical instruments, such as the drums, echoed in Victoria as the dancers glided and danced to the beat of their traditional music.
The three international winners of the Seychelles carnival of carnivals received a trophy each, a local sculpture personally cast by Tom Bowers.
