Darwin Festival releases first six shows for 2018

The Northern Territory’s largest arts and cultural event, the Darwin Festival, which stages for 18 days between August 9 and 25, has announced its first six acts for 2018.

The Santos opening night concert presents Buried Country, the history of Indigenous country music in Australia.

Incorporating live music, stories, art and video, the show includes elders Roger Knox and L. J. Hill, the high profile Warren H. Williams and Buddy Knox, and younger artists Leah Flanagan, Luke Peacock and James Henry.

The Aurora Spiegeltent makes a return, this year with Limbo, a mix of cabaret, circus and acrobatics. It is produced by the same team behind last year’s sell-out Blanc de Blanc.

Comedian Urzila Carlson takes a break from TV’s Have You Been Paying Attention? to present her new show, Studies Have Shown.’

Latest indigenous music breakthrough, hip hop stylist Baker Boy, checks into The Lighthouse.

Prize Fighter is a gritty theatrical piece inspired by playwright Future D. Fidel’s own life experiences as a former Congolese child soldier and refugee.

The Australian Ballet’s charming comedy Coppélia promises mischief and magic for the whole family.

The festival’s artistic director Felix Preval explains, “Darwin audiences are unique in what they love to experience, so with this in mind we’ve really looked at shows that speak to this desire for all things inspiring, enlightening, quirky, and off-kilter.

“Much like Territorians themselves, this line up of early release shows contains a healthy mix of heart, honesty and hilarity.”  

Acting minister for tourism and culture, Eva Lawler, said the event “transforms the Darwin CBD into a bustling arts and cultural experience.”

She added, “Territorians love Darwin Festival; it is a wonderful celebration of our arts, culture and lifestyle which is why Government is contributing over $1 million to support its success in 2018.

“This investment is part of the Territory Labor Government’s record $103 million Turbocharging Tourism stimulus package which includes $20.78 million to support our festivals, events and experiences recognising the role they play in cementing the Territory’s reputation as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

“This year, in line with our Turbocharging Tourism push, there will be a stronger focus on attracting interstate and international visitors to Darwin for the festival, injecting more money into the economy and local businesses.”

“I look forward to enjoying another exciting Darwin Festival program in August.”

Early release tickets went on sale this morning (10 am local time) from www.darwinfestival.org.au

The full program cabaret, theatre, dance, visual arts, outdoor concerts under the stars and fun family events will be announced on Thursday June 21.