As the spring is imminent, so is the carnival. A selection was held some weeks ago for those who wish to stand on stage during the three days of the carnival in May.
Soon the long wait will be over. Preparations for the great carnival this spring are progressing. Lundakarnevalen is estimated to attract the second largest amount of voluntary workers for an entertainment arrangement in the world – only the summer Olympics tend to attract more. A total of 5,100 people have registered, and will in one way or another participate in this year’s Futuralkarneval.
Carnivalists longing for singing
During the weekend, the Centre for Mathematical Sciences was besieged by nervous and excited carnivalists that want to experience the carnival from the first parquet – the stage.
Try-outs were arranged by the Carnival Committee and delegates from the different sections for those who wish to perform during the carnival. One of them is 21-year-old Johanna Gudjonsdottir.
“It always sounds different when are warming up your vocal cords.” she says blissfully after warming up her voice, as she ventures towards the try-outs.
Once there, 18 judges awaits from the section groups, as well as directors and administrators. Johanna has previously selected the three sections which she would prefer the most to perform for. It is then up to the section representatives to agree upon which section will have the benefit of her qualities.
Happy judges
Johanna assumes her position in front of a scrutinizing, yet cheerful squad of judges. She exceeds a tone from a song in the musical Chess and is reciprocated with rejoice. A few questions regarding herself and her character later, and she is out of the hot seat and so are her five minutes.
“It was so much fun. I didn’t want to over-do it. You’ll just have to take it for what it is.” she says and continues to explain why she chose to apply:
“It’s going to be a lot of fun associating with people that have the same interests as I do, and that is why I apply. I think you’ll get to meet lots of new friends. Until then, I’ll practice my laugh-muscles.”
Tough competition for the positions
However, Johanna isn’t the only one interested in a spot on stage. Close to 320 carnivalists claimed their place in front of the judge squad that weekend. All were given five minutes to wow their audience, until it was time for the next candidate. The applicants were to be evaluated on time and arranged into a suitable line, in order to receive their notice the following week. It’s a haste.
Hard work for the organizers
The administrative work to sustain the carnival’s grand organisation in order, can easily become overwhelming. The Carnival Committee was appointed as soon as February last year, and the activity has since then been active.
“It was a bit level in the spring, but as autumn came along, it took a higher pace. Now, it’s hard work.” says the carnival’s chief of communication, Clara Luthman.
No serene moments
With an estimate 400,000 visitors during the three hectic days of May, the pressure on the Carnival Committee is expected to be high, and the interest to extend far beyond the Lund surroundings. As the Communication Manager, Clara Luthman will not have a single serene moment.
“Since the carnival is only held once every years, the interest is of course high.” she says and smiles.
The carnival is something special, which the students’ engagement in the event prominently illustrates.
“3,000 people sat in line all night to do voluntary work. It was the most greatest thing I’ve experienced.” says Clara Luthman.
Text: Casper Danielsson
Photo: Jonas Jacobsson
Translation: Diana Truong
