Named “BatuCarnaval,” the Crous Nice-Toulon organized a festive animation for students, driven by the Brazilian percussion of the Pangaea company. A small nod to the Nice carnival which will not take place.
At the Baie des Anges student residence, high up in Nice, it was just noon when the first drums began to beat in unison. In this usually well-quiet residence, the “Pangaea” company took over a living space marked by the presence of students. The most curious poked their heads out of their apartments, smiles on students’ faces, and above all, a bit of life in the currently dull context.
Leading the troupe, a man dressed as a “Cro-Magnon man” conducts his orchestra. As the weather is pleasant outside, he directs his well-organized team of six people. The rhythm is intense in the aisles of the residence, the sound of the drums resonates, and everyone seems to enjoy the show. Besides listening, the “Pangaea” group fully played along this morning, with festive costumes, drums in the colors of the carnival country, and of course, the mask that is ever-present to maintain and respect health measures.
It’s Good for the Mood
While the “Battle of the Flowers” and the Nice carnival is just an illusion this year, this initiative led by the Crous boosts students’ morale. As times are tough for some students, particularly marked by issues of precariousness and loneliness, this animation acts as a gesture of solidarity. “It’s a small gesture, but it shows that we are thought of, it’s important to feel supported,” says a student between the drumbeats. A surge of solidarity, but also an opportunity to pay tribute to the unparalleled Nice Carnival, which unfortunately will not take place this year due to the global pandemic. Good cheer, choreography, for an hour, it almost felt real.
This is not the first time the Crous has worked for students. In December 2020, it organized the first musical and light parade at the foot of the Jean Mรฉdecin residence. Given the students’ delight and ecstasy, the Crous has decided to carry on with a performance intended for its students.
