The Carnival of Aruba has been
celebrated with enormous joy and creativity for over forty years. This book describes the
origins and history of the Island's carnival, and the principal characters, masquerade
groups, and music found in the costume parades and seasonable jump-ups. Carnival is a
public festival which takes place just before Lent, a period of fasting and penitence for
Catholics. It is also a time for all Arubians to take to the streets for the biggest party
of the year -- six long weeks of jump-ups, competitions, parties and costumed parades.
Aruba's carnival is based on the Trinidad carnival which was introduced to the Island by
British West Indian immigrants in the 1940's, but today the festival incorporates many
native Aruban festive traditions and cultural expressions. In addition, over many decades
of immigration and social interaction with other regions, the festivities have absorbed
elements of other carnivals, especially those of Venezuela, Brazil, Holland and North
America. This expressive mix of music patterns, competitive events, and contrasting
cultural styles reflects also the ethnic diversity of this multi-cultural nation. Carnival
in Aruba is enjoyed each year by visitors to the Island from all of the world.
About the author:
Victoria Razak has taught
cultural anthropology at Millard Fillmore Academic College of the State University of New
York, and at Niagara County Community College, NY. This book comes from her doctoral
research on music, festival, and identity on Aruba, from which she has also published
several articles.
CLICK
HERE TO ORDER YOUR COPY!
For more information you can contact Mrs.
Razak-Cole via E-mail:
vrazak@visitaruba.com
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