Manual of Junkanoo Costume Construction

This book is a step-by-step guide to the basics in design and construction of costumes for junkanoo parades in the Bahamas. Junkanoo is a competitive street festival which resembles carnival and is highlighted by colorfully costumed musicians and dancers who perform to the pulsating sounds of Junkanoo music, and to the cheers of their fans. These annual parades are very popular among Bahamians and tourists alike, and everyone dreams of being a participant. However, to participate in the parades one must be in a Junkanoo group and obtain costumes from that group each year. Unfortunately, the majority of Junkanoo enthusiasts are ignorant of the basics of costume construction and are totally dependent upon a few designers to do all the work. This often leads to mass production and ill-fitting costumes that group members are helpless to correct. The goal of this exercise is to provide a simple manual that Junkanoo leaders and school teachers could use to educate group members and school students in the basics of Junkanoo costume construction. This would ensure that costumes be custom made and that paraders be more responsible for their costumes. Moreover, it is hoped that this book would be considered when Junkanoo is added to the school curriculum in the Bahamas