Dream Time

28 April - 1 May 2023

Dream Location

Little Venice, London

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Organised by

Inland Waterways Association

Canal Dream CIC

Slash Arts

Dream overview

About IWA Canalway Cavalcade 

Since 1983, this legendary event has brought communities together, transforming the heart of London's canal network. With over 100 colourfully decorated boats, arts, live music, refreshments, craft stalls, and family-friendly activities, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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As one of the largest waterways festivals in the country, the Canalway Cavalcade is a cherished tradition within the local community. Boaters travel from far and wide to participate, and the event attracts visitors from across London and beyond.

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Canal Dream at the Cavalcade

This is Canal Dream's second year participating in the festival, and each year, the Inland Waterways Association (IWA) honours us with a different award.

• IWA Canalway Cavalcade 2022: the Marcus Boudier Trophy (For the best decorated privately entered boat) was awarded to ‘Rachel’, steerer Mark Saxon, and the Canal Dream.

• IWA Canalway Cavalcade 2023: Canal Dream, Slash Arts, and ‘2 Crew and a Cockapoo’ were runners up for the Cruise Electric Trophy (For the best illuminated boat)​​​​​​​​

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About Dance for the Sky 

Canal Dream and Slash Arts proudly celebrated 25 years of artistic works by Nadir Tharani—an accomplished architect, artist, and writer from Tanzania—at the IWA Canalway Cavalcade 2023. This vibrant three-day canal festival, held in the heart of London’s waterways at Little Venice, featured an inspiring blend of art, music, and performances curated by Chuntian Hu.

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Nadir’s exhibition traced his artistic journey through several of his major series:

• Origins and Horizons: A "visual demarcation that entices us to dream of the future."

• Positions of Power: A thought-provoking series reflecting the alignment of the human body under the influence of those who wield power.

• Recent works, expressing joyous and buoyant hope for the future.

During the three-day festival, Nadir's exhibition was showcased inside the boat, offering visitors an intimate exploration of his works. Simultaneously, live music and performances took place on the roof of the boat, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for attendees.