At Global Grooves, Carnival is more than just an art form—it’s a global movement that connects, inspires, and transforms lives. As a diverse-led, artist-driven organisation, we harness the power of creativity to ignite change, empower communities, and foster intercultural dialogue. Our dynamic, collaborative projects celebrate diversity, reimagine public spaces, and create inclusive cultural experiences that resonate deeply across communities in the UK and internationally.
From bustling city streets to serene town squares, Global Grooves brings energy, joy, and a sense of pride to public spaces. Our projects have reached over 9.5 million people in the past three years, transforming everyday environments into vibrant stages of celebration.
Through colourful parades, stunning costumes, and infectious rhythms, we engage local communities, turning spectators into active participants. Our outdoor events revitalise high streets and boost local economies while creating spaces where everyone feels celebrated and empowered.
As one Tameside participant expressed, “It felt amazing to walk down the streets and show the world it’s okay to be yourself.”
This sense of empowerment extends beyond individual communities, contributing to placemaking, civic pride, and linking local experiences to broader global movements.
Creativity is at the heart of Global Grooves. Our collaborations span over 170 arts organisations worldwide, blending traditional and contemporary artistic practices in visually stunning puppets, costumes, street performances, and large-scale outdoor events. These works inspire, tell powerful stories, and challenge cultural perceptions.
Our home, The Vale, stands as a Carnival Centre of Excellence—an innovative hub for cultural collaboration. With purpose-built rehearsal spaces and immersive artistic environments, The Vale is where artists from all backgrounds converge to create transformative art that connects communities in the UK and beyond.
“Performing at The Vale felt like stepping into a world where creativity knows no bounds,” Vale Live performer
Through our Future Leaders programme, we are nurturing over 200 young creatives through training, mentorship, and hands-on opportunities to perform on prestigious stages both in the UK and internationally. This programme equips young people with the tools, networks, and belief to shape the future of the arts.
We’ve created 1,151 paid opportunities for 217 artists, helping emerging talent thrive while promoting diversity and inclusion within the creative sector. By investing in artists from underrepresented backgrounds, we contribute to a more diverse and balanced creative economy.
Art is a powerful catalyst for healing and connection. Through initiatives like Our Space and Crafty Saturdays, we have engaged 12,769 visitors in inclusive, family-friendly activities that inspire creativity and foster social bonds.
“This programme reignited my son’s passion and gave him his confidence back. It’s been life-changing.”
By combating isolation and strengthening community ties, we demonstrate how creativity can promote well-being, enrich lives, and form the fabric of stronger, more resilient communities. We are not just creating art; we are fostering a sense of belonging that transcends individuals, communities, and borders, connecting people through shared experiences, regardless of where they live.
Championing Sustainability and Innovation is a core pillar of our work. The Vale is on track to run on 100% renewable energy, setting an example for environmentally-conscious arts spaces. Through projects like Trails to The Vale, we engage communities in critical conversations about climate action, showing how creativity can inspire change on global environmental issues.
In partnership with Julie’s Bicycle, we ensure sustainability remains at the core of our production and performance practices.
“Art made climate change feel personal and actionable.”
This commitment not only enhances our work but also amplifies our international impact, contributing to global conversations around environmental justice.
Our international reach is key to the success and innovation of Global Grooves. We actively engage with the global Carnival arts community, gaining insights from leading artists, festivals, and organisations across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and beyond. These experiences feed directly into our creative projects, which reflect the rich, diverse, and ever-evolving nature of Carnival arts.
Our team’s international work strengthens our connections to artists and communities in the UK. By sharing creative models, skills, and knowledge, we bring fresh, global perspectives to our UK projects. These cross-border partnerships not only enhance the quality of our work but also create opportunities for UK artists to engage with international networks, fostering an ongoing exchange of ideas and experiences.
Global Grooves brings UK-made art to international audiences, showcasing our unique creativity and cultural leadership. We perform at global festivals and collaborate with artists worldwide, enhancing the impact of our work and fostering deeper cultural exchange.
As a proud Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and a key player in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Culture Portfolio, Global Grooves is at the forefront of cultural innovation and social impact. Our work aligns with regional and national strategies that enhance cultural access, nurture emerging talent, and drive social and economic growth—connecting international and local communities through creativity.
Investing in Global Grooves means supporting a legacy of transformation, empowerment, and cultural exchange. With our international reach and deep-rooted connections to UK communities, we continue to inspire, uplift, and create unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting imprint on hearts, minds, and public spaces.
Together, we can continue this journey of creativity, celebration, and global collaboration. Join us in creating magic that transcends borders and touches lives everywhere.
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Pop your email address in the box here and we’ll send you updates about our work, including how to get involved. We promise we won’t inundate your inbox, but you will be able to unsubscribe at any time.
