Full program released for Parrtjima Festival's workshops, films, talks and music

The full program has been released for Parrtjima – A Festival in Light in Alice Springs with a great selection of music, talks and workshops offering something for everyone to attend between observing the immersive light displays.

As well as large-scale light installations that illuminate the Red Centre landscape, the full Parrtjima program includes workshops led by Central Australian art centres: the Hermannsburg Potters, Ikuntji Artists, Warlukurlangu Artists and Iltja Ntjarra “Many Hands” Art Centre. There will also be dance workshops with GUTS Dance and demonstrations from Maruku Arts, including Tjukurpa storytelling in the sand.

The selection of films and documentaries include Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy and Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky.

The program also features a series of talks with some of Australia’s most well-known Indigenous identities, including actor Steven Oliver, and former Northern Territory Senator and Olympian Nova Peris, plus music from the likes of Kaiit, The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and Paul Ah Chee.

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.

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.

NTMEC Chief Executive Suzana Bishop notes “Parrtjima will once again deliver a program that is 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.”

AGB Events, Creative Director Anthony Bastic AM says the curation for the festival programming is based on continuing culture and adds “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.”

Visitors are encouraged to register early for program events to avoid disappointment at www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/register

Image top: Parrtjima 2023 light festival render; Image above: Parrtjima 2023 Hermannsburg Potters workshops