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Parade Season Starts Early With Clowns & Queens

The Ice Queens have built a strong following at the last few Solstice Parades - and this year you can take part Photo by K. Lindsay, Jun '12

This Sunday, May 6th, the Fremont Arts Council headquarters, the Powerhouse (3940 Fremont Ave N,) will unofficially launch Solstice Parade building with two workshops for those wanting to learn about the Carnival Clowns and/or Ice Queens.

From Noon – 4p, join Norma Baum and her squadron of literal clowns as they build hats, costumes and routines for the Parade.  Baum has gathered up the supplies, and welcomes all willing (or just curious) about releasing their inner clown.  Kids are welcome, with a guardian.  Bring your own materials, and ideas, or show up, and use those on-hand to find your inspiration.

Come play - the Solstice Parade 2012 has already started with workshops at the Powerhouse, and everyone is welcome to take part. Photo by K. Lindsay, Jun '12

From 11a – 1p, attend the unveiling of the 2012 Queenistas Solstice dress & totem characters for the parade.  Their theme for this year is Earth, and the transition from the growth of spring to the warmth of summer.  As has become traditional, the Queenistas will dress in white, but this year with colorful accessories evoking the bounties of the earth.  Whimsical animal totems and pollinators will be incorporated into the ensemble, as led by Donna Lough.  The troupe will also have a float, with a verdant garden theme.  There will be plenty of ways for interested volunteers to engage with this popular ensemble.  The Unveiling will be this Sunday, but classes on how to make the dresses will take place on May 10th, May 14th and May 23rd.

The Powerhouse will also be open starting at Noon on Saturday, May 5th, for the Float move.  This weekend is a good time to stop by, see what it planned for the 2012 Solstice Parade – and lend a hand.  Watching the parade is fun, but being in it creates memories for a lifetime!  Have questions, contact volunteer coordinator Tessa Hulls at volunteers@fremontartscouncil.org