Published on Monday, 22 April 2024 at 3:28:28 PM
The Shire of Carnarvon is thrilled to announce the inaugural This Life Arts Festival, a month-long celebration of culture, arts, and community, taking place throughout May in Carnarvon.
This Life Arts Festival promises a diverse program of live performances, workshops, exhibitions, and community engagements. At the heart of the festival are two captivating live performances that promise to inspire, provoke thought, and ignite conversations.
Yirra Yarra Yaakin Theatre Company will take the stage with their poignant production, "Songbird," an intimate tale of heartbreak, forgiveness, shared memories, and sweet melodies. This stirring performance invites audiences to delve into the depths of human emotion and experience a powerful journey of love and redemption.
In addition, NT Dance Company presents "The Other Side of Me" by Gary Lang, a compelling dance duet that confronts the tragic legacy of the Stolen Generations. Through the heart-wrenching story of one man stranded between two families, continents, and cultures, this performance sheds light on the enduring impact of colonization on First Nations people. Yet, amidst the sorrow, it offers a glimmer of hope and redemption as it sings the spirit home.
The Shire of Carnarvon is honoured to partner with Gwoonwardu Mia - WA Museum to bring Gary Lang and "The Other Side of Me" to Carnarvon, furthering our commitment to fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
But This Life Arts Festival is not just about spectating; it's about active participation and engagement. Youth in the community will have the opportunity to participate in workshops, building on the success of local dance groups, Coral Spawn Dancers and Pundarra Performance Group, who recently showcased at Jamba Nyinayi Festival on Baiyungu country. This hands-on involvement not only nurtures talent but also strengthens the bonds within our community.
The festival will see the unveiling of a vibrant new mural in Carnarvon and a revitalisation of Egan Street. This addition to our streetscape not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also serves as a testament to the thriving arts scene in Carnarvon.
Complementing the live performances and community engagements, the Shire of Carnarvon Library will host the Art on the Move touring exhibition, "Jila Kujarra: Two Snakes Dreaming," offering a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Aboriginal arts and culture.
Commenting on the festival, Shire President Eddie Smith remarked, "This Life Arts Festival embodies the spirit of our community and reflects our commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement. Through vibrant performances, exhibitions, and meaningful collaborations, we aim to create lasting memories and inspire positive change."
The This Life Arts Festival aligns closely with the objectives outlined in the Shire of Carnarvon's Community Strategic Plan, emphasising the importance of cultural vitality, social inclusion, and economic development. By providing a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, the festival contributes to the overall wellbeing and resilience of our community.
As part of the broader 'This Life' branding for events in Carnarvon, the festival celebrates the unique spirit of our town, echoing the sentiment often heard throughout Carnarvon: how good is this life.
For more information and to stay updated on festival events, please visit https://www.carnarvon.wa.gov.au/community/arts-heritage-culture/this-life-arts-festival.aspx or follow us on Facebook.
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