Following on from the enormous successes of the Hindu Sikh Buddhist Muslim society’s annual “Taal” production, and the recent formation of the Equality Society, Bancroft’s school has added another crucial society to its roster. The BACS, initially only achieving small, nucleated interest last year, was dubbed as a phenomenal success by students and teachers alike after the inaugural “Carnival” evening on Friday, 14th October. The bright and bold evening, organised entirely by students, featured a wide range of traditional African and Caribbean cuisine as well as a stellar programme of singing, dancing and acting. “Dinner and a show” was provided for only £5 per student, guaranteeing great value for money and a wonderful and entertaining night out.
The colour and vibrancy of the evening encompassed all the great aspects of BAC culture but remained accessible and enjoyable for the entire school’s demographic. In this way, Bancroft’s was once again able to highlight its racial diversity and inclusiveness, a key asset in any major London school. The non-profit night raised money for vital research at the Sickle Cell Society, a non-governmental organisation providing healthcare to those at risk of the disease, who are predominantly of Africa heritage. Sickle Cells have indeed affected members of the Bancroft BAC’s community, so this was a fitting bittersweet tribute to the survivors. The evenings line-up included historical aspects such as an interview with Jesse Owens among others, in order to inform the audience of the struggle faced by black people in the past. There was also an incredibly moving and thought-provoking poetry reading called “How do I define Beauty” discussing society and the medias opinion of true beauty, especially among coloured people. There was a wonderful soul rendition by Faith Kargbo along with fun, and seamlessly choreographed dance routines to smash hits such as that of Beyonce.
It is always good news to hear of increasing representation and community of different minorities in schools; at a time of great racial tension in the UK, at least Bancroft’s school is making the effort to unite students of all backgrounds.
