The Territory’s iconic Garrmalang Festival returns to Darwin this July, with an incredible program paying homage to the oldest living culture in the world. Garrmalang is the traditional Larrakia name for what is now the Darwin CBD, and the festival will take place from 29-31 July at the Darwin Entertainment Centre (DEC).
Renowned for celebrating our rich First Nations culture, Garrmalang is Darwin’s only major multi-arts event led by a First Nations creative team. This year’s program has something for everyone, including live music, comedy, dance, panel discussions, art displays, pop-up market stalls and much more.
To kick off the event, an official gathering and welcome will take place at 6.30pm on Friday, 29 July outside DEC, with a traditional smoking ceremony and dancing.
There are plenty of highlights on the 2022 program such as a musical performance by multi-award winning artist Frank Yamma, Larrakia songstress Lena Kellie and local blues artist David Spry, not to mention Stephen Pigram and his Bigroom String Band.
The 2022 event will also feature “Garrmalang Gwarnda Damanggwa” Garrmalang Festival Club. Including some of the Territory’s top DJs, dancers and divas, this 18+ event is sure to sell out early.
Another main attraction is the Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular. Headlined by Kevin Kropinyeri, crowds will be left in stitches with the Deadly Darwin collective also each doing a fast short set. There will also be a hip hop party featuring Tasman Keith and NT rappers J-MILLA and Yung Milla, plus plenty of free events including the nationally renowned and formidable “Numanggwa-gum” Blak Talk.
Garrmalang Festival is supported by the Northern Territory Government through the Northern Territory Major Events Company Event Funding Program. To see the full program and to buy tickets, head to [https://www.yourcentre.com.au].
Quotes from Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby
“Festival-goers are in for a real treat, with this year’s Garrmalang Festival offering something for the whole family.”
“Garrmalang recognises our vibrant First Nations history and features an incredible range of talent from across Australia, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the world’s longest living culture.”
“We are proud to help support this unique festival, recognising the social and economic benefits it generates for the Top End.”
Quotes from Creative Director, Dr Wendy Ludwig:
“Through music, song, dance, comedy and art, this year promises to deliver the very best in First Nations talent this country has to offer, bringing together all our community to celebrate as one.
“The diversity of First Nations artists, performers, musicians and traders presented will provide something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate.”
