MY PROJECT ON

BRUCKINGS
Introduction
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 FORM OF ORIGIN
Bruckins is a traditional cultural form of celebration in Jamaica to celebrate the official
emancipation of slavery. Queen Victoria of England granted the slaves freedom on
August 1, 1838 and that day was dubbed as National Emancipation Day in Jamaica.
There is some uncertainty as to whether Bruckins was first performed in 1838 or 1839.
Bruckins Party had its roots in the Set Girls who were one of the groups or bands in the
popular Christmas parade called Jonkonnu. After Emancipation, the overall Jonkonnu
importance decreased.
The traditional Bruckins Party which took place up to the start of the 20 th century was
elaborate. It involves a 2 day procession in the towns and villages during the day where
it consists of the Red and Blue Kings and Queens along with their entourages. On the
night of July 31, the celebrations would move to the specially constructed Bruckins
booth for a night of entertainment. It is made of bamboo, palm leaves and brightly
colored flowers. Two thrones are placed inside the booth for the Queens to sit, one Red
and one Blue.
The more elaborate Bruckins Party tradition was split into 2 distinct forms which took
place on separate occasions which are the Tea Meeting featuring The Queen Party and
Showbread auctions. Also, the Bruckins Party with the rival Red and Blue Sets
accompanied by their entourage and led by their respective Kings and Queens.
 FUNCTION AND MEANING OF FORM
The main function of the Bruckins Party is to Commemorate the people’s full freedom
from slavery on August 1,1838 , it marks the period in history that represents triumph
over the oppressive system of slavery This happened 4 years after the abolition of
slavery was decreed by Queen Victoria in 1834. It also signifies the people’s sense of
place and dignity in society of their own making.
 ELEMENTS OF FORM
Music
Bruckins party dancers are accompanied by singers and musicians playing military
Drum sets of European origin. These drum sets form part of the traditional musical
groups throughout the Caribbean. The drums are double headed