PANORAMA

@ EMSLIE HORNIMAN'S PLEASANCE, W10 5EG. TIME: 4PM

For many the start of Carnival proper, from 4pm on the Saturday pan devotees will begin their pilgrimage to Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance to stand in awe before that shrine to steelpan power and glory, the Panorama stage. Panorama is as much a social as a musical occasion, a chance to lime, with a beer in your hand and a bite to eat to see you through to midnight. Large screens make viewing easier, and the sometimes lengthy intervals - while one band moves out and the next sets up - will be filled with music from the resident DJs.

Yes, we all know that once upon a time Panorama was free to attend, but don’t complain too loudly about the price because the ticket money is split amongst the performing bands, and they darn well deserve it. Hopefully, this will make it possible for more bands to take part in coming years, which can only be a good thing.

Competing Bands

• Croydon Steel Orchestra

• Mangrove Steelband

• Metronomes Steel Orchestra

• Pan Nation

• Real Steel

• South Harmonics

• Ebony Steelband (defending champions)