What We Do
Costume Production
Shademakers are renowned for their work with kinetic structures we term “Dancing Sculptures”. A benchmark of our work is the high quality of design and execution. We have an extensive storage facility containing materials of every description and an extensive suppliers list to suit every costume build imaginable. Over 30 years of experience is available to deal with any conundrum, confusion and complication in the execution of your costume. Our costumes are designed to perform in all weather conditions, whether night time illuminated or day time reflective. Modern technological developments with LED reflective material, hydraulic and kinetic engineered movement are employed in our work.
Commissions
One of our main functions is to conceive, conduct and curate project work. A consequence is our relation to organisations, local authorities and commissioners to provide a city-scale spectacle show. Our project work includes the first carnival in post-communist Russia. The King & Queen of the World Competition, Trinidad; the first Berlin Carnival of Cultures; Organisation of the Bielefeld Carnival of Cultures; the Hanover Expo 2000; the Millenium Dome 2000; the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, The Mall; the Faszination Mythos – Varus Battle; 2011 Island Games; 2012 London Olympics Torch Ceremony; BBC’s Green Fields Beyond, Lincoln.
We will undertake large and small commissions for both private and public events.
Pedagogy
We can provide hands-on training, support and lectures in a variety of areas related to carnival arts. The subject matter concerns artists, philosophers and students alike. It studies the condition of social interaction, which relates to the contemporary hybridised carnival we know today. Through debate and reflective learning we provide an understanding of the ritualised celebration and commemoration between life and death ceremony.
Learning programmes are tailored to suit your needs and can be provided both as our in house training and outreach.
Collaboration
We welcome collaboration with groups locally, nationally and internationally. Membership over 25 years have numbered in excess of 1 500 people.
Activities have ranged from joint performances, training, choreographed shows to world touring. We maintain and foster existing links and look forward to encountering new partners. Our philosophy is to engage public space as common ground for celebration, unifying common themes in diversity and strength through unity.
The objects of the Company are to carry on activities which benefit the community and in particular (without limitation) local (Isle of Wight), national and international community groups through carnival engagement projects; presentation of performances; the provision of workshop space, training and education; and hosting community events on the Isle of Wight.
Amended February 2024