Some of the biggest names in the UK reggae and Ska scene are gearing up to take to the stage at this year’s Bermondsey Carnival in Southwark Park.
Among the special guests to perform in front of crowds on Saturday, July 1, will be ‘The Queen of Lovers Rock’ Janet Kay; singer from The Specials, Neville Staple; and UK Reggae legend and hit producer Dennis Bovell.
Other performers include The Marvels; and headliner Indika – Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry’s long-standing touring band.
Bermondsey Beat duo Phil Burkett and Russell Dryden have been in charge of organising top music acts for the carnival for the past nineteen years.
“We try to put on a line-up that appeals to everyone across the borough and we like to have young artists as well as older artists,” Phil told the News.
“People love the day – and it’s a fantastic free day which is really rare in this day and age.
“Southwark Council has always supported us and we are in their debt for their continuous support and help making this event what it is.”
Cllr Johnson Situ, Southwark Council’s cabinet member for business, culture and social regeneration, added: “The carnival is an amazing day out for the whole family, and once again Bermondsey Beat has a great music programme lined up for us.”
The Bermondsey Carnival was originally set up more than 100 years ago to raise funds for the families of victims of the Boer War and those injured.
It was popular in the 1960s and ‘70s but declined in popularity in the ‘80s. Fortunately, it was brought back in the ‘90s and has been a regular summertime fixture in Southwark ever since.
Other highlights will include the annual Rumble in the Jumble – a mass jumble sale where you might be lucky enough to find a hidden treasure – and the Reuben Bonds funfair.
The free festival, organised by Southwark Council and Bermondsey Beat, will take place in Southwark Park on Saturday, July 1, from 12pm to 8pm.
