There will be something for everyone visiting Alice Springs for this year's Parrtjima - A Festival in Light with the full program of workshops, films, talks and live music released today.
The jam-packed program includes workshops led by Central Australian art centres the Hermannsburg Potters, Ikuntji Artists, Warlukurlangu Artists and Iltja Ntjarra "Many Hands" Artists. The selection of films and documentaries includes Westwind: Djalu's Legacy and Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky.
There will also be dance workshops with GUTS Dance and demonstrations from Maruku Arts, including Tjukurpa storytelling in the sand.
The program complements the immersive light installations, which will be projected onto the ancient MacDonnell Ranges and the distinctive red dirt at Alice Springs Desert Park.
The program also features a series of talks with some of Australia's well-known Indigenous identities including actor Steven Oliver and former Northern Territory Senator and Olympian Nova Peris, and music from the likes of KAIIT, The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and Paul Ah Chee.
Parrtjima is delivered by the Northern Territory Government through Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) and is produced by Creative Directors AGB Events. The theme for this year's Parrtjima is Listening with Heart. Inspired by the artwork surrounding the Statement from the Heart, Listening with Heart embodies the concept of coming together, meeting and taking the time to contemplate, reflect and heal.
Those looking to attend are encouraged to register early at: Parrtjima here
Quotes from NT Major Events Company CEO Suzana Bishop:
"Parrtjima will once again deliver a program that is truly exciting, with a spread of events and workshops that celebrate and share Aboriginal culture.
"The festival puts Alice Springs on the map and showcases one of the most striking landscapes in the country, with visitors expected to stay and explore other parts of the Red Centre.
"Last year, tourists who visited Parrtjima were responsible for almost 35,000 visitor nights, with a total expenditure stimulus of $14.7 million for the Territory."
Quotes from AGB Events Creative Director Anthony Bastic AM:
"The true essence of Parrtjima has always been about sharing knowledge and the telling of Australian cultural stories, I think this year it's time to listen. The artists and talent featured at Parrtjima this year all have interesting and diverse experiences and it's a wonderful opportunity to come together with open minds and embrace their perspectives."
Photo credit: Kalypa, Canning Stock Route Well 23 by Corban CLause Williams, Grounded, Parrtjima 2022
