Play Mas: Carnival at the AGO

It’s the first First Thursday of 2018 on February 1 and the AGO is celebrating with an art Carnival. First Thursday: Shake It shakes up past and present notions of resistance and tradition, while creating one of Toronto’s favourite dance floors in Walker Court. This will be an especially electric evening with artists using the theme of Carnival, accompanied by a special DJ performance by Juliana Huxtable, who says Toronto "has turned into one of (her) favorite cities."

Here’s a peek into what you can expect at this week’s exciting First Thursday:

Juliana Huxtable

This multi-faceted artist has been one to watch for years, since she broke out in the New Museum Triennial in 2015. Known for her dynamic personal style, her work in photography and writing and as the co-founder of the New York City-based nightlife collective Shock Value, Huxtable will wow First Thursday-goers with her headlining DJ set, which erases the division between artist and audience on the dancefloor.

"We’re all inspiring each other, especially in places like New York the artist/fan dichotomy only exists insofar as you operate assuming it does," Huxtable said.

DJ Nino Brown

Warming up the crowd for Huxtable will be Toronto’s own DJ Nino Brown, co-founder of the favourite dancehall/hip hop party Yes Yes Y’All.

Rhoma Spencer

This actor, director and storyteller from Trinidad will be recreating the custom of Viey la Cou, or the old yard, inside the Gallery – bringing her version of the excitement of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival to the AGO.

Jasmyn Fyffe

This Toronto choreographer, described as “Alvin Ailey meets street dancer,” will explore the J’ouvert tradition – a large street party held during Carnival where calypso and soca bands follow dancers down the street – in a new piece.

Alexis Eke

This talented 19-year-old illustrator will create the custom program provided to all First Thursday-goers.

Still haven’t booked your ticket? Head to our website today and grab a reprieve from the winter cold with this hot party.

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