By Deanne Jeffers
SHEPPARTON has been abuzz with artistic expression, with a slew of creative and inspiring events on across the region as part of the Shepparton Festival’s massive 27th year.
“Coming to the final weekend of the festival, I’m looking back on some spectacular programming and looking forward to more!” said festival director, Kristen Retallick.
“Thank you Shepparton, for getting behind these artists and their work. We have a supportive and curious arts community that I’m very proud to be part of. I’m inspired by the presence I have felt amongst the audiences and artists, so we’re already planning for 2024!” she said.
Some programs still to come are sold out like The Wine Bluffs, and there are limited places left for ‘Close to Home Project’, a Victorian College of the Arts dance students’ performance, choreographed by Kristina and Sadé Alleyne from Alleyne Dance (London UK).
If you’re yet to experience the festival for yourself, there’s plenty happening until the festival closes on Sunday, April 2, where the Call to Create winner will be announced amongst some incredible First Nations artists.
Music lovers won’t want to miss Wasteman band, a surreal birdwalk with Dawn Chorus / Dusk Chorus, immersive spatial sound installation ‘OnBelonging’ created from field recordings of the Shepparton area’s environmental resonances and sounds.
There’s also stand-up comedy by Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh called ‘Presentation is Everything’, a short filmmaking workshop, ‘Access Memory’ dance installation using light, movement and sound to immerse its audience.
SAM at Sunset will make its welcome return on the final Thursday of the month, March 30, providing an after-hours, full museum experience, with free kids’ activities, artist talks and access to the rooftop bar.
For more information on any of these programs, and to book, visit sheppartonfestival.org.au
