The eagerly awaited Junction Arts Festival returns to Launceston (Tasmania) for a 14th year this September.
The festival invites arts lovers to emerge from the cold embrace of winters, and revel in a lively springtime celebration.
Junctions Arts Festival is a community-focused arts festival, held annual in Launceston. It was founded in 2010, aiming to support and showcase Tasmanian artists through a diverse art, performance and music programme. The event is dedicated to championing a vibrant, dynamic arts scene in Tasmania.
The programme features free and ticketed shows, with someone for everyone on offer. From kids shows to fabulous family events. . . Early evening boogies and late night delights. Launceston will burst with captivating art, mesmerising light installations and a huge line-up of the island’s best original music.
Music-lovers can expect tunes from the likes of Ben Salter, The Seven Ups, Sumner, Party Dozen, Clint Lockwood, Emily Sanzaro and more.
Image © Melanie Kate
Meanwhile, in the world of dance, ‘Danceweekender’ from Tasdance brings dance lovers from across the north for an afternoon of performing, teaching, and sharing. . . And ‘Charcoal’ explores the embodiment and physicality of caring for country through visual art and movement.
Cabaret connoisseurs can stay ‘Up Later’ with local superstars ROOKE, hosting a late-night circus cabaret full of raucous fun. ‘Up Late’ features a mega hot line-up of internationally renowned circus artists and special guests. . . And ‘Barry’s Gumnut Circus Cabaret’ is a dazzling production of enchantment and hilarity.
A Whale Tale – Plastic Seascapes immerses art lovers in a plastic-wrapped paradise. By the year 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Visual artists, students, filmmakers and sound artists come together to shine a spotlight on the environmental issue of plastic waste and marine debris.
Image © Melanie Kate
“It is a great testament to the support of the Launceston community that Junction can celebrate such longevity in the festival space,” Junction Arts Festival President/Chair Rebecca Birrell says. “Each year Junction Arts Festival plays a key role in activating the city, boosting the cultural vibrancy, celebrating community connection and diversity, access to the arts and economic benefit.”
“We continue to evolve and refine our commitment to local Tasmanian artists while also building relationships with interstate artists to foster cultural and artistic development within the state. Our work with creative consultant Natano Fa’anana with our new team is the beginning of an exciting ongoing creative direction for Junction.”
“Celebrating their 14th year, Junction Festival has been a beacon of creativity, showcasing Tasmania's rich arts scene and fostering local talent. Events like these are vital for our community in Launceston, as they not only provide a platform for artists to shine but also bring people and families together, creating a shared sense of joy and cultural enrichment,” Mayor Matthew Garwood adds.
Check out the full programme.
Junction Arts Festival takes place in Launceston (Tasmania) 19-22 September.
