SEPTEMBER 21-29
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
16 PAGEs OF FUN FU FOR THE WHOL HOL FAMILY WHOLE
Fantastic stores & cafés to explore with Buskers Galore! This September at your new Coffs Central more fashion, services & fresh food stores are now open plus a great choice of delicious indoor & alfresco dining options. Meet ‘FINN’ the whale & experience the world- class facilities everyone is talking about!
Coffs Central is ‘Buskers Central’ From 23rd-28th September from 12-2pm be entertained while you enjoy the new shops, cafes or your lunch at Food at the Terrace with amazing Buskers Festival performances. Magicians, dancers and musicians plus lots of other fantastic acts will be roaming the centre for your enjoyment. For full Festival program visit www.coffsharbourbuskers.com
www.coffscentralshopping.com.au
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
DENISE KNIGHT - MAYOR
WELCOME
O
n behalf of the community of Coffs Harbour, I take great pleasure in welcoming all of the community, the buskers and the visitors who will come out to take part in the 2013 Coffs Harbour International Buskers and Comedy Festival from September 21-29. This year we have a whole bunch of fresh acts for you to enjoy including The Wild Wedding Show, The Amazing Cal, Acrobatica, and renowned Aussie comedian Tahir. We’ve also slipped in a couple of old favourites including the Balloon Maestro and New Zealanders Jeremy Elwood and Mulletman. The City Centre will feature more shows than ever before with shows daily, including Sundays, throughout the Festival. There will also be family events at the Harbourside Markets and the Hoey
Moey, and adult comedy in the pubs and clubs at night. The Festival wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the local business community. In particular, I’d like to thank the Festival’s principal sponsor - Coffs Central - along with our other major sponsors including City Centre Marketing, Sawtell RSL, The Pier Hotel, and this year we also welcome Telstraon board as a major sponsor. For them and all our other Festival sponsors, we thank you for your continuing support. Thanks also must go to JLE Entertainment and Council’s own staff and volunteers for the passion and enthusiasm they bring to co-ordinating the Festival. I hope you all have a wonderful time at the Festival. DENISE KNIGHT - MAYOR
FROM THE FESTIVAL DIRECTOR
I
have included the attached photo (Coffs from Muttonbird Island) to hopefully make everyone appreciate what a beautiful place we are blessed to live in. I hope you enjoy the city while you are here and if you are a local, get out and enjoy what the Coffs Coast has to offer. As we enter the thirteenth year of the festival, I have to say this year has been the most challenging to date. The festival market is a constantly evolving and changing landscape and we have to adapt, change and improve our product to meet the demands and expectations of audiences, the community and sponsors. This year we are very proud to announce that Coffs Central has extended it’s sponsorship of the Festival. As well as hosting the Gala Launch on Saturday 21st September, the centre will show-
case six days of roving acts, lunchtime entertainment in the brand new food court and with its beautiful new outdoor balcony overlook eight days of entertainment in the city centre. We welcome Telstra to our sponsorship family and hope we can justify the faith they have shown in us. We also welcome the Moonee Tavern as a new venue and sponsor. What’s in store this year? With eight days of fun, 20 acts, featuring more than 20 performers, 11 venues, 25 different events amd over 120 shows there is something for everyone from kids to seniors. Grab some sunscreen, your sense of humour and catch some of the shows. It’s probably the best laugh you have all year! JOHN LOGAN
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
FESTIVAL LAUNCH & COFFS CENTRAL GRAND OPENING SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 21 The festival kicks off with a gala opening and cocktail party upstairs in Coffs Central to celebrate the commencement of the festival and the opening of Coffs harbour’s newest est and many would say best retail premises COFFS CENTRAL. What was formerly known as The Palms Centre is now Coffs Central , refurbished and looking fabulous, the centre will be officially opened by mayor Denise Knight in a hot ticket item that you can get into by invitation only, on the evening of Saturday September 21st. The night will also feature several buskers in a preview of what is to come the following week. As seen on Au Australia’s usttrral ust allia ia’ as Got Talent 201 2012 0112 12
HISTORY OF THE FESTIVAL In September each year, the hearts of Coffs Coast residents start to beat just that little bit faster. They know as they have all known for the past twelve years that with the onset of warmer weather, the BUSKERS FESTIVAL is just around the corner! For those who don’t know or are visitors to the city, the festival began in 1989 when the Rotary Club of Coffs City began the event. It was known in those days as The Buttercup Buskers Festival. It ran for a few years but was lost to the city when it became too big an event for a volunteer organisation. Fast forward to 1999 when the Council and city planners were conducting research and workshops into revitalising the city centre. Every survey, every think tank and ideas sessions brought up one consistent theme. Business & community wanted “to see the buskers back” and in 2000, local events company JLE in conjunction with Council and business launched it again to great fanfare and wide community support. It has since grown from a three day event to an 8 day event with over 100 shows. Over the years the festival has seen more than 200 acts work the street. Some of the best known and loved have been The Gargoyle, Hilby The Skinny German Juggle Boy, The Handsome Little Devils, Mario Queen of the Circus , the Japanese duo Gamarjobat, and of course Alfred & Seymour The Black Street Boys. Organisers start preparing for the festival as soon as the last one is over and this process starts in October & continues each year until Christmas. After a short break , they are back at it again chasing sponsorship, travelling all over Australia & at times internationally to check out artists. It is then a frantic 20 weeks between February and May to try and tie up the loose ends, issue contracts, starting the advertising , collect promotional material,tie up sponsorship, negotiate old venues & sometimes new ones, prepare and book itineraries and all the hundred and one other things that go into running a successful event. Trying to balance the program is also a battle. “People contact us all the time and want one act or another. We have to balance this and generally bring back only one or, at the most two from the previous year, one or two from 2-5 years ago but each year we have 60-75% new acts” said John Logan festival coordinator. Trying to find these new ones is a job that takes year round attention and a lot of travel. We also get hundreds of applications a year from such as far away as Uzbekistan (home of the famous “throat gurglers”), Eastern Europe and most recently several parts of Africa. “We are very well known outside Australia and for that reason we receive 4- 6 emails or phone calls a week. I also get my friends, colleagues and family send me video clips all the time” John said again. The process of choosing the acts is when the funs really starts. Every act has to have some point of difference and this is the main thing we look for. Then if we like them, we approach them but they don’t all say yes. For some it takes years until they are available. We have been chasing one “Sand Fantasy” for nearly 5 years and as yet have not been successful in securing this Israeli based act. We look forward to seeing you at this years event SEPT 21- 29 but as we always say “bring some money for the buskers’ hat”. John Logan
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CITY CENTRE ACTION This year the city centre comes alive with a total of 8 days of busking fun. The program features activity both outside on the street and inside COFFS CENTRAL so everyone is in on the fun. On the street, locals and visitors will see shows on Saturday 21st, Mon23, Tues 24, Wed 25, Thurs 26, Fri 27, Sat 28 & Sun 29. On the Wednesday, the street will be closed for a full day of activity , fun, rides , face painting and busking on 3 “pitches” which is the busking name for a location or stage where they perform.
FLASH-MOBS “INVADE THE CITY CENTRE” “I had this idea that spontaneous displays of dance & movement can add to the festival atmosphere” John Logan festival producer said “so I talked it over with Julie Ross from JRDS – Julie Ross Dance Studios and she really liked the idea too. It wasn’t my idea, I had seen Travers(Ross) use it before to great effect and thought it would colour and add an element of surprise to our event”. So get ready for some real fun as our local dance studios who have been furiously rehearsing for the past two months unleash some spectacular routines on an unsuspecting public. The Julie Ross Dance studio takes over Wednesday 25th , Harbour Performing Arts will take on Thursday and Woopi Dance have grabbed Friday 27th . All promise some really colourful routines. You won’t know where, you won’t know when but they are coming! If you like what you see and think you or your child might like to dance why not contact one of the studios ? JRDS studio is based in Isles Drive Coffs Harbour & caters for all ages, phone 6651 9419. Harbour Performing Arts are contactable 66536364. Woolgoolga Dance Studios can be contacted on 66540057.
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
BUSKERS IN SAWTELL Sawtell will feature strongly in the program this year. Organisers of this year’s BUSKERS FESTIVAL have scored another coup after convincing the ever popular HOT RODS to pay a visit to the festival on the Tuesday 24th September On that afternoon, First Ave comes alive with the sights and sounds of over 150 Hot Rods from the Drag Ends Hot Rod Club in Sydney. These unique and colourful cars will line the street two abreast on each side of the road and be in the street from 5pm till 8pm. You can catch them there and talk to the proud owners. In among the cars will be buskkers performing and as we go to print organisers are just trying work g to wo rk out just where the buskers will fit..150 It promises to be a spectacular ectaculaar evening show 5pm – 8pm. The rods are vintage cars manufactured actured between 1923 and 1950 and owners will be on hand for locals cals and visitors who wish to talk to them about their prized possessions. ons.
SAWTELL RSL Over the past several years, this great community club has demonemonstrated its support for the festival and this year will host three e nights of acts roving in the bistro. Check out the club noticeboardss or the official program for dates and watch out as the buskers add colour & fun to the bistro from 6pm- 8pm during the festival. The club b will also o stage one huge event on Friday Sept 27 as festival headlining Tang act Ta ahir – better known as Habib from the hugely successful TV shows hows Fatt Pizza and Housos presents his only show of the Festival in an n adults only comedy show. Tickets for that show are on sale now w at the e club or via the Festival website ww.coffsharbourbuskers.com kers.com
THE MAIN EVENT FEATURING TAHIR FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27 Each year Sawtell RSL plays host to one comedy show and this year is not different with that show happening on Friday Sept 27 . Dubbed “the main event with “habib” the show features TAHIR – from 'Fat Pizza' and 'Housos' who will be supported by the best of the buskers. Tahir is one of Australia’s busiest comedians. He has been a feature in all comedy venues around the country and had numerous television appearances as credits. Tahir was named Comedian of the Year and has been Logie nominated. He is a regular at major Comedy Festivals, on panel shows, television debates and even Celebrity Theatresports! Tahir has been involved in some of the most successful stage and screen productions. Recently in 2004 he appeared in the fourth series of PIZZA on SBS as the much loved and hilarious character “HABIB”. He was also an integral member of the team in the hit movie "FAT PIZZA” and other cult hit franchises such as "SWIFT AND SHIFT COURIERS" and "HOUSOS".
TICKETS
Early bird tickets are now on sale at the CLUB, online @ Sawtellrsl.com.au and at BUSKERS CENTRAL.
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
PYRODYNAMICS FEATURING ROB HORNER SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 21 Pyrodynamics is Australia's premiere fire dance & pyrotechnic theatre production company. Their performances range from solo fire shows to massive stage productions which incorporate over 14 fire dancers, circus artists, pyrotechnics, multimedia, lasers and more! While they mainly perform at corporate events, weddings and festivals you will occasionally find them rocking out a high impact fire street show! Origination from Cairns Queensland, Pyrodynamics is now based in Sydney & Melbourne. For Coffs Harbour Busking Festival Pyrodynamics will be performing their amazing duet fire cabaret which will be performed by Rob & Lalita, the two main faces behind the crew. Thier performance is a unique blend of special FX, artistic fire props, dynamic stage energy, incredibly difficult fire tricks, polished choreography, partner acrobatics and of course... State of the art fire dancing! This is one spectacular show you wont want to miss, bring the family and your cheering voice to get ready for one amazing show! For more information on Pyrodynamics visit www.pyrodynamics.com.au PYRODYNAMICS will be appearing on Thurs, Fri and Sat. See page 8-9 for dates and times
COFFS CENTRAL SHOWS For 6 days acts will also be performing short cameo shows at various locations inside the COFFS CENTRAL. Watch out as acts pop up from anywhere and everywhere and perform -15 minute shows. The brand new food court will also host lunch time acts between 12midday and 2pm with music setting the mood every day from 12 midday followed by a busking or roving act also in the food court . Remember these guys are busking too so don’t forget to put your hand in your pocket & some money in the buskers hat. These shows will be featured Monday 23rd until Saturday 28th. In between shows , why not check out the shops or grab a bite to eat from one of the many great cafes or food outlets in the centre.
COFFS CENTRAL DAILY PROGRAM MONDAY 23 Food Court 12-1pm Music/Marty Martin 1-2pm Tricksters Rhys __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Balloon Maestro
TUESDAY 24 Food Court 12-1pm Music/Marty Martin 1-2pm Tricksters Rhys __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Balloon Maestro
WEDNESDAY 25 Food Court 12-1pm Music/Marty Martin 1-2pm Tricksters Rhys __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Balloon Maestro & JR Dance
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THURSDAY 26 Food Court 12-1pm Music/Inka/ Marka 1-2pm Magic Jake __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Balloon Maestro & Harbour Performing Arts
FRIDAY 27 Food Court 12-1pm Inka Marka 1-2pm Magic Jake __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Balloon Maestro & Woopi Dance
SATURDAY 26 Food Court 12-1pm Inka Marka 1-2pm Magic Jake __________________________________ Roving in Centre - Magic Jake
NBN BUSKERS KIDS DAY What started out as just a filler on the program has become a highlight of the festival. From humble beginnings in 2005 KIIDS DAY has grown and now features a full day’s activities. Very popular with the OOSH (after school care ) groups, they usually make up half the crowd. This year its on again - Tuesday September 24 , the NBN BUSKERS KIDS DAY at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. From 10am the grassed area in front of the main grandstand will come alive with all manner of crazy buskers performing 30 minute shows until 2:45pm. You’ll see The Amazing Cal – Magic Jake – Trickster Rhys – Jeremy Penguin and much more and to keep the kids interested in between shows free jumping castles and rides will be set up on the area to the sides of the main action. The totally brilliant Balloon Maestro will also make a special 2 hour appearance inside for those who want something more sedate and the inside venue also serves as the an all weather alternative in the event of less than favourable weather or rain. For just $8 (+booking fee) you get a full day’s activity, you can bring your own lunch or buy it on site and best of all, accompanying parents & guardians are admitted free. KIDS DAY has grown to be one of the favourite events of the festival & regularly attracts over 1000 kids. On the day, children pay an admission fee and this covers everything, except food & the buskers do not put their hat out. Gates open at 9.30am, action kicks off at 10am
TICKETS
Tickets can be purchased at the concierge desk at Coffs Central, at Buskers Central, at the Racing Club, at the gate on the day OR save yourself the trouble & book on-line @ the festival website www.coffsharbourbuskers.com NBN KIDS DAY enquiries : 66528266
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
THURSDAY THUR RSDAY NI NIGHT FIRE SHOW On Th Thursday hursday nigh night the city square will feature a spectacular first – a fire show from Pyrodynamics featuring Rob Horner who locals may have seen on last year’s Australia’s Got Talent along with partner the ve ery beautiful Lailita. Rob will only be here from Thursday to Saturday so don’t miss this special very Thursd day night fire Show from 7PM. They will be joined Acrobatica for a fabulous city centre double Thursday bill . La ast year was the first time we did a Thursday night show and it was an instant success. “We do Last hope it will be sup supported” John Logan festival producer said.
HOEYY MOEY Since coming on b board in 2010, the Park Beach Hoey Moey shows have become a festival staple and th his year we w this will be doing a Sunday 22nd afternoon show in the beergarden @ 4.30pm, & three evenin ng family sho evening shows on Sunday 22nd, Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th. These are a great mix of comed dy and light hearted fun and kick off at 6.30pm. Remember they are busking shows as well so comedy bring some mone money for the hat.
MOONEE MOO NEE We are e very excited excite to go back to the northern beaches and the Moonee Beach Tavern will host one show on Saturday 28th at 6.30pm. The move was initiated by Harry Barry from the Seaview and after just a ffew meeting meetings a date was set and Buskers return to the northern Beaches. The show will feature three aacts includin including Magic Jake , The Circus Firemen & Pryodynamics. It will be set in the beergarde n and featur garden feature a spectacular fire show finale. Organisers are thrilled to return to the northern beach hes and hope the community “come out in droves” to support the event. “I’ve always believed beaches the no orthern beac northern beaches want their own show and we are looking for a home up there so hopefully this is it” sa aid John Log said Logan festival organiser.
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
SUNDAY 22ND
SATURDAY 21st CITY CENTRE 10.00 AM • RHYS TRICKSTER 11.00 AM • AMAZING CAL 12.00 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 1.00PM • MULLETMAN
COFFS CENTRAL 8.00 PM • GALA LAUNCH INVITATION ONLY
HARBOURSIDE MARKETS 9.45 AM • RHYS TRICKSTER 10.30 AM • MULLET MAN 11.15 AM • AMAZING CAL 12.15 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 1.15 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN
HOEY MOEY BEER GARDEN SHOW 4.00 PM • THE AMAZING CAL FAMILY SHOW 6.30 PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 7.00 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 7.30 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN
MONDAY 23RD CITY CENTRE 9.30 -10.30 AM • MARTY MARTIN 10.30 AM • RHYS TRICKSTER 11.00 AM • JEREMY PENGUIN 12.00 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 1.00 PM • AMAZING CAL ROVING • BALLOON MAESTRO
COFFS CENTRAL 12.00 -1.00 PM • MARTY MARTIN 1.00 - 2.00 PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 1.30 - 2.30 PM • BALLOON MAESTRO ROVING - KABAM DUO
PARK BEACH HOLIDAY PARK 3.00PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 3.30pm • WILD WEDDING SHOW
HOEY MOEY 6.30 PM • AMAZING CAL 7.00 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN ROVING • BALLOON MAESTRO
TUESDAY 24TH NBN KIDS DAY - TICKETED 10.00 AM • JEREMY PENGUIN 10.30 AM • RHYS TRICKSTER BALLOON MAESTRO 11.00 AM • AMAZING CAL 11.30 AM • MAGIC JAKE 12.00 PM • MULLET MAN 12.30 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 1.30 PM • ACROBATICA 2.00 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN 2.30 PM • MAGIC JAKE
CITY CENTRE 9.30AM • MARTY MARTIN 10.30AM • WILD WEDDING SHOW 11.30AM • ACROBATICA 12.30PM • JEREMY PENGUIN 1.30PM • AMAZING CAL 9.00-10AM • ONLY BALLOOON MAESTRO
•
SAWTELL RSL FROM 6.00 PM ROVING ACTS IN THE BISTRO • BALLOON MAESTRO & FRIENDS
COFFS CENTRAL ROVING KABAM DUO 12.00- 1.00PM MARTY MARTIN 1.00-2.00PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 1.30-2.30PM • BALLOON MAESTRO
PIER HOTEL FROM 8PM • JEREMY PENGUIN • DAN WILLIS • DAMIEN POWER • MULLET MAN
SAWTELL FIRST AVE 5.30 PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 6.00 PM • ACROBATICA 7.00 PM • AMAZING CAL
HOEY MOEY 6.30 PM • RHYS TRICKSTER 7.00 PM • AMAZING CAL 7.30 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN
wednesday 25TH CITY CENTRE 9.00 -11.00 AM • MARTY MARTIN 9.30 AM • MAGIC JAKE 10.00 AM • RHYS TRICKSTER 10.30 AM • AMAZING CAL 11.15 AM • WILD WEDDING 12.00 PM • ACROBATICA 12.45 PM • CIRCUS FIREMEN 1.30 PM • JEREMY PENGUIN ROVING • BALLOON MAESTRO
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COFFS CENTRAL ROVING - JR DANCE 12.00 - 1.00 PM • MARTY MARTIN 1.00 - 2.00 PM • RHYS TRICKSTER ROVING • BALLOON MAESTRO & KABAM DUO
SAWTELL RSL ROVING ACTS IN THE BISTRO FROM 6.00 PM • BALLOON MAESTRO & FRIENDS
PIER HOTEL FROM 8PM • AMAZING CAL • JEREMY ELWOOD • DAN WILLIS • DAMIEN POWER
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
THURSDAY 26th COFFS CENTRAL
CITY CENTRE 9.00 - 11.00 AM
•
INKA MARKA
ROVING • HARBOUR (PAC) DANCE
11.00 AM • CIRCUS FIREMEN
12.00 - 1.00 PM • INKA MARKA
12.00 P • WILD WEDDING SHOW
1.00 - 2.00 PM • BALLOON MAESTRO ROVING • KABAM DUO
1.00 PM • MAGIC JAKE ROVING - BALLOON MAESTRO
SAWTELL RSL ROVING ACTS IN THE BISTRO FROM 6.00 PM • BALLOON MAESTRO & FRIENDS
PIER HOTEL FROM 8PM •
• •
•
CIRCUS FIREMEN
DAMIEN POWER DAN WILLIS
JEREMY ELWOOD
EVENING SHOW 7.00 PM • ACROBATICA 7.30 PM
•
PYRODYNAMICS FIRE SHOW
FRIDAY 27TH COFFS CENTRAL
CITY CENTRE 9.00 - 11.00 AM • INKA MARKA 11.00 AM • ACROBATICA 12.00 PM • CIRCUS FIREMEN 1.00 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW
ROVING
•
WOOPI DANCE
12.00 -1.00 PM
•
INKA MARKA
SAWTELL RSL
BOTANIC GARDENS
WITH TAHIR (from Fat Pizza) + Jeremy Elwood
6.00 - 7.00 PM • INKA MARKA INTRO
+ Jeremy Penguin 8.30 PM - TICKETED
1.00 - 2.00 PM • MAGIC JAKE ROVING • CHARACTERS
6.30 PM •
7.00 PM • PYRODYNAMICS FIRE SHOW
•
•
JEREMY PENGUIN (MC)
WILD WEDDING SHOW
•
CIRCUS FIREMEN
PYRODYNAMICS FIRE SHOW
SATURDAY 28TH CITY CENTRE
COFFS CENTRAL
9.00 - 11.00 AM • INKA MARKA
12.00 - 1.00 PM • INKA MARKA
11.00 AM • ACROBATICA
1.00 -2.00 PM • MAGIC JAKE ROVING - MAGIC JAKE
12.15 PM • WILD WEDDING SHOW
MOONEE TAVERN 6.30 PM
•
BOTANIC GARDENS
MAGIC JAKE
6.00 - 7.00 PM • INKA MARKA - INTRO
7.00 PM • PYRODYNAMICS
6.30 PM
7.45 PM • CIRCUS FIREMEN
•
8.30 PM ONWARDS • INKA MARKA
1.00 PM • SURPRISE NEW ACT
• •
•
ACROBATICA
JEREMY PENGUIN (MC)
PYRODYNAMICS FIRE SHOW
DING DONG YVONNE CALLING
SUNDAY 29TH CITY CENTRE ACROBATICA
9.00 - 10.30 AM
DING DONG YVONNE CALLING
10.30 AM
10.15 AM 11.00 AM
•
HARBOURSIDE MARKETS
•
11.00 AM
•
12.00 PM 1.00 PM
•
•
•
INKA MARKA
MAGIC JAKE
CIRCUS FIREMEN •
ACROBATICA
DING DONG YVONNE CALLING
Note: All dates and times correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
MAJOR SPONSORS
MEDIA PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
INKA MARKA
MUSIC OF THE ANDES When Jose Diaz Rodrigues arrived in Sydney from Bolivia almost a decade ago, he felt it was imperative he keep in touch with his deep South American cultural roots and together with his brother in law Orlando Arias and friend Michel Bestrin, Inka Marka was born. Inka Marka is dedicated to performing the passionate music and d colourful l f l ethnic th i dances d off the th Andes. A d
ACROBATICA - MELBOURNE
Imaginative cantilevered balances, requiring delicacy, exceptional strength & phenomenal team work. They are at the forefront of Australian Circus and have trained and worked with some of the hottest contemporary circus acts Australia has to offer. They fly, they jump, they will have you in awe. A must see act for all ages.
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JEREMY PENGUIN – NZ Originally from New Zealand, he has been juggling for over 14 years. Jeremy incorporates old school showmanship with new school energy! The quintessential five star juggler, these days he spends the majority of his time travelling to exotic locations to entertain & laugh with people. Awesome skills and a quick wit, he also works with a gaggle of six fluffy penguins in this ridiculous show & ends up inside a one metre sized balloon with only a g-string. A sight to behold.
THE AMAZING CAL – BRISBANE VIA MELBOURNE A graduate of the NICA (National Institute of Circus Arts), Cal will literally set his feet on fire (kids – don’t try this at home) as he climbs the ladder of death while managing three flaming fire torches. On a recent scouting trip to Melbourne, Cal was a stand out in a city where dozens of acts work every week. Guaranteed to be a huge hit with the girls.
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
TRICKSTER RHYS - BEGA
DING DONG - YVONNE CALLING
Another one of the young g brigade. This boy has sasss and attitude that should take him all the way to the top. From m Bega on the NSW south coast, he brings magic, juggling and a youthful exuberance to the street.
The delightful Ding Dong is a busking “fashionista” with a feisty sense of humour & an eye catching smile that has made her an endearing act to audiences the world over. Yvonne (aka) Kate Wright has been training and performing since she was a youngster with Adelaide’s Cirkidz Circus. She moved to Melbourne and completed a Bachelor of Contemporary Arts with a double major in Dance and Drama. Feeling a love for circus, she decided to move to Christchurch to train at CircoArts with a Diploma in Circus majoring in hula hoop and juggling. It was in Christchurch that she starting busking at the Arts Markets to get by while training and fell into street theatre. This is the first time she brings her solo show to Coffs.
Marty MARTIN - MUSICIAN
MAGIC JAKE - COFFS HARBOUR WILD WEDDING SHOW - NZ An engaging cross of comedy and acrobatics. Watch on as Mim and Danny flip, dance and stumble their way through the big day! An electric twist on the traditional wedding & features a breathtaking and dangerous finale. This show will dazzle and delight.
Each year the festival receives over 150 applications and many of them are musicians but we received one a few months ago that really caught our eye. Through a grainy video with dodgy audio, we were able to see that this guy really had talent and with a vibe that sits somewhere around Jack Johnson and John Butler, we knew we just had to have him. Marty is a high school teacher from Grafton & regularly busks up and down the North Coast.
Jake is a local act and we are proud to say the youngest act on the bill. At just 12 years of age he has extraordinary talent and a voracious appetite for learning new tricks. He was recently asked to perform at the prestigious ASEC event on Gold Coast and will be seen on TV screens all over Australia later this year in Australia’s Got Talent 2013.
WANT ANSWERS ON THE NBN? JUST ASK A LOCAL. Like to know how you can unlock amazing with Telstra on the NBN? See your local
L.
NBN experts at the Coffs Harbour Telstra store. We’ll explain Telstra’s services on the
rived.
NBN and happily answer any other questions you have. We look forward to seeing you.
al
Great news for Coffs Harbour. The new National Broadband Network (NBN) has arrived.
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
n the Visit Telstra store Coffs Central Shop 9 Coffs Central Shopping Centre Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour
you.
For more information visit telstra.com/unlockamazing
Telstra services on the National Broadband Network not available to all areas or premises. The spectrum device is a trade mark of Telstra Corporation Limited ABN 33 051 775 556.
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
THE CIRCUS FIREMEN 25TH,26TH,27TH SEPTEMBER Angus and Matilda are The Circus Firemen! They turn up the heat with high energy acrobatics, red hot juggling, and searing Australian comedy. In their death defying finale they balance precariously on 2 ladders while juggling fire! Sure to empress and entertain. It's firemen themed circus at it's very best! Joshua Phillips (Angus) and Idris Stanton (Matilda) have been performing together since 2003. They are both highly trained circus school graduates of the National Institute of Circus Arts (2009). They have toured with other circus companies and entertained a plethora of audiences at corporate events and on cruise ships. It is street performing that launched their career as circus artists and still remains their career as circus artists and still remains their passion as they find it in the most fun, exciting medium of entertainment. Winner of the 2011 Kingston Buskers Rendezvous Peoples Choice award. The Circus Firemen are appearing at the City Centre Wednesday 25th 12.45pm, Thursday 26th 11am, Friday 27th at 12.00pm and Sunday 29th at Harbourside Markets from 11am Watch the video
PROFILE
AARON SMITH BALLOON MAESTRO Tired of standard balloon animals I was about to give up twisting until I discovered what you can actually do with a humble sausage balloon and became fixated on being different and taking balloon animals to a whole new level. Ten years ago when I first started this weird hobby, I did not think that I would be doing this as a full time career, nor did I think that I would be the one pushing the limits of what balloon animals should look like. I love what I do! I have just been nominated for a National Children’s Entertainment Award and even if I don’t win, being nominated has been one of my greatest highlights as a Balloon Artist. I am unique and different, these are my only personal goals I have set for myself and because of this it has set me well above your standard twister. People of all ages and nationality love what I do and when you see what I can do, I’m cocky enough to say you will to! Aaron Smyth
The BALLOON MAESTRO will be roving around the festival all week. See page 8-9 for dates and times
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Mulletman As New Zealand’s finest export ,international style icon and chick magnet, he is one of our favourite all time performers and comes to Australia from the shaky city of Christchurch. Mulletman has a style that is all his own and puts the mullet where it needs to be flying as high as possible for the world to see.
NEW ACTS There is a constant demand for new content in the program. However, the festival runs for 8 days and keeping content fresh and new over such an extended period is always a challenge. You may not realise it but most acts don't do the whole event, they are just here for a few days so keep a eye on the actual program printed on the double open pages in the centre of this publication and follow it closely. For example Tahir will be doing 1 show, The Amazing Cal is here for 5 days, Inka Marka 4 days, our comedians are here for only 3 days and Ding Dong Yvonne Calling only 2 days being Saturday 28 and Sunday 29.
IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS Every year festival organisers try a few new things. “They don’t always work but we are constantly trying new things and new ideas” said John Logan .”From these we have developed an exciting and different program and simply wouldn’t have Kids Day or the Adult Comedy nights if we weren’t willing to try new things”. However if you have a suggestion or idea to add to the event , we’d love to hear from you, so drop us a line @ john_jle@tpg.com.au
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
BOTANIC GARDENS Each year as the festival draws to a close we host two evenings at the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Located just at the end of Hardacre St and virtually next door to the TAFE College it is right in the heart of town. Performed under the stars and in among the trees, the gates open at 6pm and the shows kick off at 6.30pm. Expected finish is around 9 -9.30pm so it is early enough to get the little ones home. Families are most welcome to bring a picnic basket, rugs and something warm in case the night gets chilly. Food and beverages are on sale so you can get that cup of coffee or a sausage sandwich. Each night the program will be different, check the guide at the centre of this program. Entry is by gold coin donation and the buskers will pass the hat twice.
HARBOURSIDE MARKETS For two Sundays each year, the Buskers also perform at the Harbourside Markets at COFFS JETTY. This year the markets will feature acts on Sat 21st and Sun 29th. Each day a variety of acts (& each Sunday features a different program) will perform under the trees in the centre of the market. In the past few years, these days have attracted huge crowds so be early to be sure to get a good position. The action normally kicks off at 9am with a roving or music act and continues until after 2pm.
TELSTRA Telstra is proud to partner with Coffs Harbour City Council as a major sponsor of the 2013 Coffs Harbour International Buskers Festival in recognition of its status as a top home-grown community event. Licensee of Telstra stores Coffs Harbour, Anthony Jephcott, said community festivals went to the heart of what Telstra stands for. “Local festivals bring communities together in celebration of their region, and the Coffs Harbour International Buskers Festival is a great example of that,” Mr Jephcott said. “We’re very proud to support such a strong local event and help it grow into a unique community attraction.” With the rollout of the NBN across the Coffs Coast, local residents will have the opportunity to find out more about how it is set to transform the area at the Telstra Store on Wheels situated in the city centre for the festival. “The arrival of the NBN is very exciting for the area, over time changing the way we do business and live our lives. We encourage people to come down, find out more and have their questions answered,” said Mr Jephcott.
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PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
PIER HOTEL
StarFM
COMEDY IN THE RAW
T U ES D AY, W E D N ES D AY & T H U R S D AY On the Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday nights of the festival, Coffs Harbour locals and visitors are treated to an event that is unlike any other event on the entire Australian entertainment landscape. On each of those nights, they are treated to 2 stand-up comedians and 2 buskers in a hilarious two hour, seat of your pants, adults only comedy concoction that simply rocks the Pier Hotel with raucous belly laughs from the first minute they hit the stage. The action is very “up close and personal “ with the comics virtually standing in among the crowd and no one is more than 6 or 7 metres from any member of the audience which makes for a razor sharp atmosphere. Headlining the bill this year will be one of New Zealand’s most awarded comedians Jeremy Elwood (right) who was last here in 2009. He will be supported by first timers, UK born comedian Dan Willis (below) and Aussie lad Damien Power (left), one of the real stars of the Melbourne Comedy Festival and the new breed of hip young comedians - both of whom will make their first visits to Coffs. Organisers warn however, that although the nights start at 8pm, you need to be early of you simply wont get a seat. The PIER HOTEL bistro usually opens a bit early on these nights so why not get down there early for a meal and get the best seats. The hat is passed twice during the night which starts at 8.30pm.
Jeremy Elwood
Enquiries : Pier Hotel 66 522 110
Damien Power
YOUTH WORKSHOPS TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS
DAN WILLIS
During the festival youngsters can embrace the concept of performance and find out more by signing up for one of the 4 workshops. To be held locally and close to the city centre, ask at BUSKERS CENTRAL the information tent set up each day. They’ll give you the details.
T U ES D AY, W E D N ES D AY & T H U R S D AY
THE WORKSHOPS Stand-Up comedian Dan Willis spent 12 years in the IT industry, working for companies such as Unisys, IBM and Coutts & Co (the Queens bank). In 2002 Dan won the TimeOut Competition to be a Perrier judge at the Edinburgh festival. From here, the step into comedy didn’t seem too complicated. Now, after over 2000 gigs in 15 different countries, TV appearances in the UK and Australia, Dan performs in all major comedy clubs (e.g. Comedy Store, Jongleurs, Highlights, etc) and international festivals (in 2011: Melbourne, Adelaide and Edinburgh) and international festivals and comes to Coffs for the first time.
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The workshops will be divided into 2 categories and each category will be targeted at different age groups. DAY 1 9am-11am : HIP HOP for 8-12 year olds This will cover basic dance moves, the benefits of exercise, how to do basic routines, how to make up a routines, & delivery of a short display 1 – 3pm : CIRCUS SKILLS for 8 – 12 year olds This will cover just the basics of juggling, diablo & acro balance • Maximum 10 per session DAY 2 9am-11am : HIP HOP for 12 – 18 year olds This will cover basic dance moves, the benefits of exercise, how to do basic routines, how to make up a routines, & delivery of a short display 1 – 3pm : CIRCUS SKILLS for 12 – 18 year olds This will cover just the basics of juggling, and circus skills. • Maximum 10 per session
PROGRAM GUIDE 2013
SOCIAL MEDIA 2013 will be the year that social media really makes an impact on the festival. As well as playing a vital part in keeping everyone up to date in the lead up to the festival, we have well and truly embraced social media to keep everyone up to date DURING the event. All the latest developments, as they happen, will be loaded up to Facebook first before being put out to general media so you’ll be the first to know. We will be putting out regular tweets and the Telstra crew will be out and about taking photos and uploading them to Facebook and Instagram or if you are in them, sending it to you. If you havent already done so log on to facebook and like the page at www.facebook.com/coffsharbourbuskersfestival
RAIN ARRANGEMENTS While we like to think we will get great weather for the entire festival , we have to make arrangements so that as much of the festival will continue even if we get rain. The general policy is that - if it is a light shower, we usually wait it out. If it looks like it is going to set in for an extended period of time the following applies. City Centre shows move inside to the food court of Coffs Central. Botanic Gardens shows will be transferred to the Hoey Moey. Sawtell First Ave will move inside to Sawtell RSL. Harbourside Markets will be a wait and see . For up to the minute notifications, watch our Facebook page closely and listen to 2CS(106.3FM) & Starfm(105.5FM).
THE HAT You will hear this expression many times during the festival. We encourage you to give generously to the Buskers' hat at the end of the show. Remember when they return to their homes, we hope they will say how generous Coffs people were.
HOW MUCH DO I TIP? JR Dance
This is the great thing about this event, you pay what you think the show is worth. When the buskers ask for the hat, be honest with yourself and pay what you honestly think the show is worth. It costs close to $5 for a cup of coffee or a beer and many feel the shows are worth at least as much as a coffee or a beer. NBN KIDS DAY and the SAWTELL RSL MAIN EVENT WITH “TAHIR” are two events where the buskers wont ask for the hat.
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