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SAMBA SQUAD - The Kwapongs go festival‑ready, crafting dazzling carnival headwear, while artist Lakwena Maciver splashes a grey rooftop with vivid paint and Abi Clarke sketches a pirouetting otter in a tutu, delivering a burst of quirky entertainment. A must‑watch episode for British TV fans, this programme highlights the creative spirit that makes CBBC HD programming a favourite in the UK television guide.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW Samba Squad is a vibrant new series that blends documentary storytelling with light‑hearted entertainment, offering UK viewers a colourful glimpse into the world of community art, carnival craft and whimsical illustration. Each episode follows a different creative team as they prepare for the bustling carnival season, turning ordinary spaces into spectacular showcases of colour, rhythm and imagination. The programme is positioned as a fresh addition to British TV’s lineup of feel‑good, culturally rich content, promising full details of the artistic process and the personalities behind the scenes. WHAT TO EXPECT In this episode the Kwapongs family get festival‑ready, meticulously crafting carnival headwear that bursts with feathered brilliance and traditional patterns, giving audiences a behind‑the‑scenes look at the labour of love that fuels Rio‑style celebrations in the UK. Meanwhile, acclaimed artist Lakwena Maciver transforms a drab grey rooftop into a soaring canvas of paint, using bold strokes to echo the energy of samba drums against the city skyline. The final segment follows illustrator Abi Clarke as she draws a pirouetting otter in a tutu, a delightful animation‑style sketch that captures the playful spirit of the series. Together these three stories create an in‑depth review of creativity, community and the joy of making art accessible to all. KEY FEATURES Samba Squad stands out for its high‑production values, cinematic cinematography and an eclectic cast that includes seasoned craftsmen, contemporary visual artists and charismatic illustrators. The series is shot on location across bustling markets, quiet rooftops and intimate studio spaces, delivering crisp colour grading that mirrors the vivid palettes of carnival culture. Viewers will appreciate the authentic narrative voice, the seamless blend of documentary insight with light entertainment, and the inclusion of original music that underscores each creative moment. This programme is a true celebration of British multiculturalism, making it a unique offering in the current entertainment slate. WHY WATCH For discerning UK television viewers, Samba Squad offers more than just visual spectacle; it provides a cultural education wrapped in an engaging, feel‑good format. The series invites audiences to discover the stories behind the costumes, the paint‑splattered walls and the whimsical sketches that define contemporary carnival traditions in Britain. It is perfect for fans of documentary‑style series, drama‑free entertainment and anyone who enjoys seeing ordinary people turn everyday spaces into extraordinary works of art. The episode delivers a comprehensive guide to the creative process, encouraging viewers to try their own craft projects and celebrate community spirit. CBBC HD CONTEXT Samba Squad joins the CBBC HD programming roster alongside other acclaimed series that celebrate the arts, such as The Great British Bake Off and Absolutely Fabulous: The Lost Episodes. Scheduled in the early evening entertainment slot, it offers a refreshing alternative to traditional drama and news, appealing to families and art enthusiasts alike. By positioning the series within CBBC HD’s commitment to diverse, high‑quality British TV, the network underscores its dedication to showcasing homegrown talent and cultural festivals that resonate with UK viewers across the nation.