Norfolk & Suffolk Music Hub, in collaboration with the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, is delighted to invite schools across Norfolk and Suffolk to take part in Carnival of Cultures – a vibrant massed vocal performance in The Grand Ring at the Royal Norfolk Show 2026.
This joyful event brings together pupils from KS1 through to KS5 to perform a brand new commissioned work celebrating the rich cultural heritage and diverse communities of Norfolk and Suffolk.
Schools can sign up to perform on either day:
- Wednesday 24 June 2026
- Performance: 11:40 – 12:00
- Meet time: 11:20
- Thursday 25 June 2026
- Performance: 12:00 – 12:20
- Meet time: 11:40
All participating schools will join a co-ordinated procession into The Grand Ring, creating a colourful and unified start to the performance.
About the Music
The massed choir will perform an exclusive new composition written especially for Carnival of Cultures.
The music celebrates:
- The many cultures represented in our region
- Shared identity and community
- The joy of collective music-making
Repertoire and learning resources will be shared shortly after Easter, giving schools ample time to rehearse.
Get Creative! (Optional)
To bring Carnival of Cultures visually to life, schools are warmly encouraged to explore:
- Cultural-themed art projects
- Props and creative items representing different heritages
- Banners or symbols from their school community
- These can be carried into The Grand Ring as part of the processional entrance.
FAQs
Who is this project aimed at?
- This project is accessible to all young people across Norfolk and Suffolk
When will the resources be available?
- Resources will be available from Monday 20th April for you to practice leading up to the event, on a password-protected area of the Hub website.
What will happen on the day?
- On the day you will meet your designated Music Hub representative at one of the two gates on the north side of the grand ring. Here you will register and then be guided into the Grand Ring for the performance. You will be sent further details closer to the event with details of your representative and a map of your meeting check point, which will give you enough time to enjoy all that the Royal Norfolk Show has to offer.
What will we do the rest of the day if attending in person?
- During the day you are welcome to visit the Royal Norfolk Show in your school parties. Tickets and parking is offered free of charge to school parties.
What to Wear?
- Please ensure pupils and staff are dressed for the weather. This is a fully outdoor performance.
Do we need to organise transport?
- Yes, schools will need to arrange their own transport to and from the Royal Norfolk Show.
Information & Safety
- Full risk assessments, schedules, meeting points and final event details will be sent out in advance to all registered schools.
Register
Carnival of Cultures promises to be an uplifting and memorable celebration of the young voices of Norfolk and Suffolk. We look forward to welcoming schools into The Grand Ring for a truly spectacular shared performance!