Samba Beats and Disco Vibes – Photographing Jack Drum Arts at Spennymoor Gala
I was recently commissioned by the brilliant team at Jack Drum Arts to photograph their Disco Samba project performing at the Spennymoor Gala, and what a riot of colour, rhythm, and pure joy it turned out to be.
The Spennymoor Gala is one of those heart-of-the-community events that pulls everyone together – families, performers, creatives, and local legends all showing up to celebrate their town in full voice. And right at the centre of it all was the pounding pulse of samba drums, whistles, sequins, and disco fever – brought to life by the amazing performers from Jack Drum Arts.
This was no ordinary parade performance. The Disco Samba troupe fused the infectious energy of Brazilian carnival with glitter-ball sparkle and some proper 70s groove. Think carnival headdresses with platform boots, samba rhythms layered with funky bass lines, and enough glitter to be seen from space. It was wild – in the best possible way.
As a photographer, this kind of job is an absolute gift. Movement, expression, costume, community spirit – every frame had a story to tell. I followed the group as they prepared behind the scenes, capturing the final touches of makeup, the tightening of drum straps, the pre-performance excitement. Then came the performance itself: vibrant, loud, unrelenting fun. The crowd loved it, kids danced along, and the streets echoed with rhythm and laughter.
I always say photography is about more than just freezing a moment – it’s about holding onto the feeling of it. And this event was bursting with feeling. The confidence of the performers, the pride in the project, the warmth of the community, and the sheer unfiltered joy of dancing down the high street on a sunny gala day – it all poured into the lens.
Jack Drum Arts have a brilliant way of creating work that brings people together, breaks down barriers, and lifts everyone up – and it was a real honour to help capture that. If you've never seen one of their projects in action, do yourself a favour and go find them – they’re making the North East a louder, brighter, more connected place.
Massive thanks to Jack Drum Arts for having me along – I loved every beat of it.
