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Expect powerful rhythms, uplifting voices, dancing, participation and a carnival atmosphere that will leave you ready for Carnival weekend.
Before taking to the streets of Notting Hill Carnival, Dendê Nation, winners of the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Brazilian Bands Category, invite audiences to a special pre-carnival celebration bringing together the artists, music and communities behind Ìjó Ìdílé – Rooted & Rising.
The evening marks the culmination of months of drumming, dance and singing activities that have connected participants across England through a shared celebration of culture, creativity and belonging. It is also an opportunity for audiences to experience the energy, rhythms and spirit that will power Dendê Nation’s return to Notting Hill Carnival.
At a time when many communities feel increasingly divided, Ìjó Ìdílé celebrates the cultural connections that unite us. For one evening, an Afro-Brazilian Samba-Reggae bloco and a Jamaican-rooted community choir share the same stage, highlighting the African heritage that continues to shape music, carnival and collective celebration across continents.
Leading the evening is Dendê Nation, joined by special guest Marivaldo Paim, Musical Director of Ilê Aiyê, the pioneering Afro-Brazilian cultural organisation from Salvador, Bahia.
Reggae Choir
Special guests Reggae Choir bring their uplifting sound and infectious energy to the stage with a full live set of reggae classics and contemporary favourites. Reggae Choir is an exciting amateur, non-audition, non-religious, contemporary ensemble, open to all who enjoy singing reggae music, regardless of skill or experience.
Formed in 2012 Reggae Choir have performed at many indoor and outdoor events and festivals including the U.K’s largest Reggae and Dub festival ‘One Love’ Festival, Citadel Festival, The London International Ska Festival, Royal Festival Hall, Jazz Café and The Royal Academy of Arts to name but a few.
Supported by Arts Council England, Ijó Ìdílé celebrates the ancestral roots that continue to inspire communities today while creating new spaces for connection, creativity and collective joy.
Produced by Gandaia Arts
Supported by Arts Council England & Black Butterfly
