Hot on the heels of their Eurovision debut, electronic music duo Electric Fields will perform at the Territory’s iconic Garrmalang Festival which kicks off in Darwin this week.
Now in its ninth year, Garrmalang is the traditional Larrakia name for what is now the Darwin CBD, and will be held at the Darwin Entertainment Centre (DEC) from 22-25 May. It is Darwin’s only major multi-arts event led by a First Nations creative team and renowned for celebrating and paying homage to our rich First Nations culture.
An official gathering and welcome will open the four-day event at 6pm on Wednesday, 22 May at DEC, and in a world first the multi, award-winning electronic music duo Electric Fields will join the Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) for an unforgettable evening on Friday, 24 May.
There are plenty of highlights on the 2024 program such as Gary Lang NT Dance Company’s performance, The Other Side of Me, some of Darwin’s finest First Nations musicians, the First Nations Fashion Exhibition, a 3D installation that journeys through the Territory’s First Nations fashions, and the Festival’s Blak Talk series.
The Festival will also include the Damang (Midnight) – Garrmalang Festival Club – the official Electric Fields and DSO after party guaranteed to get you dancing long into the night. Brace yourself for some of the Territory’s top DJs, dancers and divas.
Another main attraction is the Big Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular, which this year will pay tribute to Deadly Darwin co-founder, Kumanjai Lewis. Hosted by comedian Steven Oliver, crowds will be left in stitches with the Deadly Darwin collective and special guests taking part.
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 yourcentre.com.au
Quotes from NTMEC CEO Suzana Bishop:
“Festival goers are in for a special treat, with this year’s Garrmalang Festival offering something for everyone from music, fashion, textiles and talks to an exceptional range of cultural and artistic experiences, including the chance to dance the night away with iconic music duo Electric Fields and Darwin Symphony Orchestra.
“Garrmalang is much more than just an event; it’s a testament to resilience, creativity and community. It’s a platform where First Nations voices are amplified, traditions are celebrated and connections are forged. It also has a huge impact on the community, bringing Darwin to life, vibrant with energy and creativity.”
Quotes from Ben Graetz, Creative Director Garrmalang Festival 2024:
“I’m excited and honoured to be working on Garrmalang Festival this year as Creative Director. Since its humble beginnings in 2014, I’ve witnessed this festival blossom into an essential fixture on the national stage, a testament to our unwavering commitment to showcasing the diverse tapestry of First Nations art and culture.
“Each year, we weave together a powerful program that reflects the depth and beauty of First Nations storytelling, music, dance and visual arts – from the Top End of Australia to every corner of our vast country. Together with our invaluable supporters we’ve created a space where our stories can flourish, where our voices can be heard, and where our spirits can soar.”
