International Eye, Los Angeles presents “Jonkanoo: Revolution Behind the Masquerade”, on Friday, April 23rd at 7pm and Saturday, April 24th at 4pm. This presentation is an interactive online experience and performance gallery that explores the revolutionary spirit behind Jamaican Jonkanoos of the 1700’s-1800’s. Steeped in African traditions, Jonkanoos parodied slave owners, creating outlandish costumes and characters such as King, Devil, Pitchy-Patchy and House Jonkanoo. Jonkanoo characters Pitchy Patchy and Devil will appear and the audience will participate in interactive mask and costume making from home (first 20 RSVPs receive the mask-making kit free, $10 after).  Practitioners will discuss the evolution of Junkanoo from the 1700’s to the present, while community members share childhood ‘Jonkanoo stories.’ Building on the tradition, Artist Marie Kellier revives the grandeur of costumes illustrated by artist Isaac Mendes Belisario. This project is supported in part by an arts grant from the City of West Hollywood.

Watch here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jonkanoo-revolution-behind-the-masquerade-tickets-146478389807