In an initiative to keep the wheels of Notting Hill Carnival turning, the Carnival Village Trust has announced the launch of the Collaboration Truck. The truck will pioneer the support of smaller bands and designers by providing a cost-effective and structured way to participate in the parade.
For the first time, bands that may struggle with carnival’s financial and logistical demands will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity as part of a shared truck experience. The initiative aims to make participation more accessible while ensuring that each band receives individual recognition and is judged as part of the parade.
With 16 band slots available, each slot allows a maximum of 15 masqueraders and five team members, and bands can take up to two spaces. Those who join will benefit from key resources, including a music-equipped truck, stewards for the full parade, unlimited use of the Respite Bus, all-inclusive food and drink, and official branding and listing from Notting Hill Carnival.
The Carnival Village Trust acknowledges the challenges that bands face, particularly in the wake of the pandemic and the rising cost of living, making it increasingly challenging to sustain participation. The Collaboration Truck is designed to support new and struggling bands by providing a structured experience while equipping them with essential knowledge about running a band, from music policies to stewarding requirements and truck logistics.
A spokesperson for the Carnival Village Trust said: “Our ambition is to give bands and designers an affordable and simpler option to get on the road. We hope this initiative will inspire a new generation and help bands re-establish themselves and focus on their art.”
Spaces for the Collaboration Truck are available on a first come, first served basis. Interested bands can find more details on the Carnival Village Trust website.
