THE FABRIC OF FRINGE
Darwin Fringe Festival is 10!
DESFEST ON THE FRINGE Desert Festival's new direction
EPIC EPILOGUE Brunch and beats in Mparntwe/Alice Springs
I don’t know about you, but I have been BIZ.EE. There’s plenty of hullabaloo in the Territory this time of year, and for good reason.
The beast that is Darwin Fringe Festival returns this month with 10 huge days and nights of freaky fun and independent art. Making things extra special is that this year is the 10th edition of Darwin Fringe in its current form. Don your green and pink get-ups, and join the party, you’re in for a very good time.
Off The Leash is proud to come on yet again as a media partner of Darwin Fringe, and while we can’t list everything in the program – it’s a monster! –we hope you enjoy the special double-page spread we’ve popped together for you in the main feature.
On the topic of Fringe (nice segue, right?) Desert Festival in Mparntwe/Alice Springs has given its 2025 iteration the Fringe treatment, a response to feedback from the community to hone in on local talent – because trust me, they got it in spades. Also included in the multi-day Festival is the chance to see the hit show, Big Name, No Blankets – a wonderful musical production based on the inspiring true story of Warumpi Band from Papunya. How special it is to see this production on its home turf!
THANK
Young peeps of Palmerston, you’re in for a hoot, as Palmerston Youth Festival returns with a week of free events, workshops, and festive fun. Royal Darwin Show also returns to celebrate livin’ in the Top End, whilst Show Days roll out across the NT in Katherine, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs.
Our Visual Arts section overfloweth with beaut exhibitions to treat your peepers to, and, as always, there’s plenty of gigs to treat your ears to in the Music section, including a special gig early this month between Top End-based Broadwing and Resin Moon from the desert.
In OTL news, we welcome Rita Horanyi back to the team as Assistant Editor. Welcome to the dream team, Rita!
You're also invited on a date to the Deckie with us next month! Enjoy a special fundraising screening of Rich Peppiatt’s hit dramedy flick based on native Irish rappers, Kneecap. These tix are gonna go quick, so scan the QR code on July's calendar to lock yours in...
No surprises here, there’s plenty to get around this month. And I’m sure you’ll all give it a good nudge on the first, as we light the skies with fireworks to celebrate Territory Day. It’s not every month you can literally start off with a bang!
FEATURE 4 & 5 FESTIVALS 6 AROUND TOWN 7
& DRINK 10
EXPLORE 11
BOOKS & FILM 12
PERFORMING ARTS 17
VISUAL ARTS 20
MUSIC 27
Tierney White Managing Editor & Development Manager
Rita Horanyi Assistant Editor
Danny Crichton Graphic Designer
Contributors
Brooke Gibbs Jenna Hoare
OUR COVER Cover proudly sponsored by Darwin Fringe Festival 2025 design by Bethany O’Shea (Cordial Draws)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Off The Leash Inc. acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live, learn and work. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.
This edition may contain the names, images, artworks and stories of people who have passed away. Please read with care.
IS PROUDLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT GET IN TOUCH editor@offtheleash.net.au 08 8941 7413 GPO BOX 2325, Darwin NT 0801
If you've got an exciting event or experience anywhere in the NT next month, we can help you get the word out. From free promotion on our website to cost-effective rates in our print magazine, there's something to suit all budgets.
FRI 4 JUL WEBSITE LISTINGS Upload anytime – this just gives you a chance to get a free listing in print! FRI 4 JUL ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE
SCAN TO DOWNLOAD OUR MEDIA KIT
MON 14 JUL ADVERT ARTWORK DEADLINE Adjustment for Aug due to freight timelines STRATEGIC
OTL is a Territory‑wide publication due to the generous support of Michael Sitzler, for all Territorians.
Since the mid-eighties, Darwin Fringe Festival, in one form or another, has given independent artists the chance to perform to the masses across a wide range of art forms. This month, the beloved Fringe celebrates its 10th edition in its current format, with 10 weird and wacky days of art coming our way.
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
Darwin Fringe Festival WHEN FRI 11 – SUN 20 JUL INFO darwinfringe.org.au
DARWIN FRINGE STARTED out as club space within the Bougainvillea Festival, these days the Darwin Festival. It’s seen a lot of versions over the years, but it was 2015 when a bunch of enthusiastic arts lovers reignited the Darwin Fringe Festival – once even known as the Fridge Festival – sparking the light for the beautiful beast it’s become today.
This need and desire to give audiences access to independent art, as well as artists and arts workers exposure and employment opportunities, is the driving force behind why the Fringe exists.
Fringe Director Hannah Illingworth joined the ranks in 2016 and says art is crucial to the human experience.
“I believe in Fringe because I know how important art is for us as humans, from the music you listen to on the way to work to the clothes you wear daily. The arts are woven into the very fabric of society and everything that we do,” she says.
“Art is important because exploring and understanding life is vital to the experience of being human. Art is the conduit that allows us to do all of this. Innovation is integral to the human condition, and it is why our society is where it is today.”
The 2025 Fringe roars with pride across 10 art-filled days, and there’s no shortage of local talent on display. With 70 percent of the program local, Illingworth reckons we’re punching above our weight when it comes to home-grown talent.
“The local creative community is so – and I know we use this word a lot –vibrant! There’s so much going on, not only the art forms, but the things people are exploring, because the arts really are about storytelling. It’s about transforming your ideas or your understandings – sometimes cementing those ideas or understandings – and there’s a lot of this going on in Darwin,” she says.
“It’s really cool to hear people say ‘oh, I didn’t realise that happens here’, and engaging locals with other locals that are doing some really cool stuff. The locals are going so hard, considering there’s very limited training opportunities up here, people are really creating some great material. Their rigor and their approach to their work is really strong. I’m so in love with the scene here.”
Since Fringe took on its current form a decade ago, it’s presented 93 days
of programming, with almost 3,000 creative engagements, about 35,000 ticket sales, and over half a million buckeroos paid to independent artists and arts workers. Fringe benefits the community in big ways.
“I like the word scaffolding for [the Fringe] … Fringe provides not only an entry point for the industry and people sharing their talents and their skills and their stories, but it’s also an opportunity to take that next step as well,” Illingworth says.
“I think scaffolding is a good phrase, because Fringe is a platform that, if people have an idea they want to take to the next level or at a point in their career when they want to lash out and try something new, they can … we work in and around all of those stages of development.”
Darwin Fringe Festival Chair Zoe Scrogings says it’s the people power that makes Fringe so special.
“I want to acknowledge the incredible team that makes Darwin Fringe possible … [Hannah’s] small but mighty team, our volunteers, and this amazing community. To the artists, thank you for dreaming loudly. And to the audiences, thank you for showing up, again and again.”
In recent years, Darwin Fringe has expanded beyond the hub at Brown’s Mart, with satellite venues popping up across town. This year, 24 venues are in the mix, including the Town Hall Ruins, Bustard Town, Flora’s temper, Cox Country Club, and George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, where exciting performance Gene Tree – a collab between St Martins Youth Arts Centre from Naarm/Melbourne, Corrugated Iron Youth Arts, Darwin Symphony Orchestra, and Darwin Fringe – takes place.
To mark the 10th iteration, plans are in the works for a new book on the Fringe’s history later in the year, and the crew have put the call out for your Fringe tales. Throughout the Festival, punters are invited to don their green and pink get-ups, so raid your wardrobe or hit the op shops, and be part of the fabric of our incredible creative scene.
If you’re keen to make the most of your Fringe experience, sign up to Fringe Mob for just 30 clams, earning you discounted tickets and 20 percent off merch, amongst other things – plus, backing the Fringe. You legend. With so much music, comedy, visual art, theatre, networking opportunities, workshops, and more, the 2025 Fringe is lookin’ fierce.
Let’s get weird. It’s party time.
Birthday party time! Dress up in green – or anything that makes you feel fabulous – and enjoy a juicy line-up with Clown Security, Temperamental, No Strings Attached, Tutup Mulut, Wet Funk, Kuya James, and more. It’s also World Fringe Day, making it a great chance to celebrate the incredible work done by Fringes around the globe!
WHEN FRI 11 JUL | 6PM-MIDNIGHT AT BROWN’S MART COURTYARD COST $15-$20
Firdi Billimoria – Allow Me to Interrupt Your Doomscroll
One of Melbourne’s most exciting and dynamic comedians brings you his new hour of stand-up after a sell-out, critically acclaimed run at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. An outsider’s twisted view on family life, animal health, and community, with enough gags and surprises to keep you in hysterics and keep you guessing.
FRI 11 - SUN 13 JUL | 7-7.50PM
TOP FLOOR COMEDY
$21-$25
Hot Girlz Love (Nature) Therapy
Hot Girls Birdwatching know that therapy is expensive, and that we all (probably) need it. Don your most fabulous fit and join them for a chance to see queens such as the rose-crowned fruit dove,
rainbow pitta, shining flycatcher, and more. See them in their natural habitat before settling down for an art journaling session led by a local queer Darwin artist.
SAT 12 JUL | 8-11AM
EAST POINT MONSOON FOREST WALK
$18 | FREE, TRANS FOLK & MOB
Kinder Jazz Time Machine
Take the ‘A-Train’ and ‘Fly to the Moon’ in this toe-tapping, hand-clapping, jumping journey through jazz. Hosted by multi-tasker-master-blaster
Mari-Trees – armed with a ukulele and a hula hoop for good measure – you’re invited to strap in for a rollicking ride, dipping into significant songs of the golden era.
SAT 12 & SUN 13 JUL | 12.30-1.30PM
BROWN’S MART STUDIO
$18-$25
Honky Tonk Disco
This straight-shooting country band from Mparntwe/Alice Springs plays the kind of music that makes you wanna move! With a sound ranging from Spaghetti Western
Holy mackerel. This program is chockers with a wide range of experiences to check out, so we’ve popped together some handy highlights we reckon you’ll dig. Events free unless otherwise noted. Go get it.
to Honky Tonk rock bangers, they bring tight harmonies, and the kind of energy that keeps a crowd dancing.
SUN 13 JUL | 2-5PM
COX COUNTRY CLUB
FRI 18 JUL | 7-10PM
DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION
Troppo Italia
For Top End peeps, the word troppo is used to describe the charm, beauty, complexity and challenges of life in the Territory.
In Italian, the word translates to mean ‘a lot’ or ‘too much’. Tony Business, Nonna Binary and Gloria Hole are troppo people, navigating their troppo lives with all the wit, glamour and drama of a Queer Italian drag family. This one-person theatre show uses storytelling, music, audio-visuals, and movement to present a glamorously camp spectacle about self-discovery, connection, family, and community.
TUE 15 JUL | 7.45-8.45PM THU 17 JUL | 9.45-10.45PM
BROWN’S MART THEATRE FREE-$28
Industry Speed Dating
Hear five-minute snapshots from
local organisations about what they do, what they offer, and how you can get involved. You might even recognise a certain street press magazine on the program…
SAT 19 JUL | 12-1PM
BROWN’S MART STUDIO
Incubator: Zine and Digital Art Fair
Fringe’s annual Zine and Digital Art Fair returns, where you can get your mitts on a range of handmade and limited-edition goodies, featuring reads from local creatives and beyond, such as collections from Small Zine Volcano in Melbourne/Naarm.
SAT 19 JUL | 2-6PM
BROWN’S MART COURTYARD
Closing Night Party
What a hoot that was. It’s nothing but good times for the official closing soirée of Fringe with a brand new collaborative performance, some queer cheerleading, and lots of friendly faces.
SAT 19 JUL | 10PM-1AM
BROWN’S MART STUDIO
$10-$15
Wanna Be a Star
Wanna Be a Star is Mema Munro’s stand-up comedy debut. Blending sequins and satire, Munro reflects on her acting career so far – from the biggest dreams to pale, male and stale producers, along with drama school teachers with medical degrees. Nothing is off limits, because how much fun is it being a currently unemployed actor, really?
SAT 19 JUL | 8-9PM
SUN 20 JUL | 4-5PM
BROWN’S MART STUDIO
$10-$15
Artist Networking
Meet and play games with
other creatives at this free artist networking session hosted by Anna Thomson. Open to all artists no matter what stage in your career you’re at, or your art form. Got kids? No need to call the babysitter, you’re more than welcome to bring ‘em along.
SAT 19 JUL | 8-9PM BROWN’S MART COURTYARD
Gene Tree: Listen. Now. Again Leading audiences on an interactive performance adventure through the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, over 50 children and teenagers ask impossible questions about evolution, adaptation, and hope. An ode to the planet, it invites audiences into small moments – feet on the grass, back against a tree, face in the wind – backed by music, rhythm, and projections.
THU 17, FRI 18 & MON 21 JUL 5.30-7.30PM GEORGE BROWN BOTANIC GARDENS $10-$20
Heading into its 24th year, the Desert Festival 2025 Fringe Edition, produced by Red Hot Arts in Mparntwe/ Alice Springs, promises to bring together more than two decades of grassroots talent.
WORDS JENNA HOARE
IMAGE SILVIA STORCHI
AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS DesFest, the Festival returns for 18 days, with a fresh, Fringe-inspired program, shining a light on Central Australia’s diverse arts community.
Artistic Director Angie Stahl says this year's Festival is a culmination of community feedback and a realignment with a hyperfocus on local talent.
“The main feedback we get is that DesFest is so important for local artists from different artforms ... theatre, performing arts, dance, circus, comedy, aerials, acrobats, you name it,” she says.
“That’s what the Festival is at the end of the day. We do it for the sector and for the artists.”
The theme for 2025 ‘Home’ celebrates Central Australia's locally grown talent and the many spaces around town that give a platform to multiarts performances and workshops. More than a dozen event spaces play host to music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and storytelling, activating the desert’s unique venues.
Among the standout performances in the program is production Big Name, No Blankets, which shares the story of the Warumpi Band, set to take the stage at the Araluen Arts Centre.
DesFest 2025 Opening Night
Check out an industrial venue doing great things for a special opening night in partnership with Red Dirt Poetry. The Dirty Word is an open-mic event dedicated to the spoken word. Enjoy live performances by featured local artists. Arrive early to get your spot!
“Big Name, No Blankets has been in the making for over 12 months. It’s toured all over Australia and we felt that it had to come home,” Stahl says.
And for young dreamers, Dream Big 2025 is a First Nations-led event in collab with Red Hot Arts, in three parts – a Block Party, a hip-hop concert, and music workshops.
“We wanted to give something for young people to feel hopeful about and create positivity, positive pathways, and give young people the chance to dream. Bringing people together and the arts is a great way to do that," Stahl says.
Another big part of this year’s Festival is the Pass the Mic competition, which gives a winning local artist a chance to represent the region at the national final in Sydney, with a cash prize up for grabs.
"We’re the only regional and remote town on the map for the competition. All the rest are major cities. It's a life changing opportunity," Stahl says.
Rounding out the Festival, take your pick from an outstanding line-up of comedians, dance theatre, folk, and electronic music, alongside a series of satellite events and an evening of country music that’s sure to stir up the dust. Yeehaw!
Desert Festival Fringe Edition WHEN THU 3 – SUN 20 JULY INFO desfest.com
Giddy Up!
Dust off the desert boots and dance it up at Giddy Up! – a country music party led by the sounds of Honky Tonky Disco, Meg Wright, and the Wrong Girls. Hosted at The Hub, an open-air venue at Red Hot Arts.
THU 3 JUL | 6PM THE ROASTERY
SAT 5 JUL | 6PM THE HUB $25
Dream Big: Block Party, BBQ + Pass the Mic Competition
Scoot along for a fun-filled youth event with a free BBQ, community market stalls, and fresh haircuts on offer. Connect with local services in an all-inclusive environment. Don’t miss the Pass the Mic hip-hop competition, followed by a hip-hop concert with a hot line-up of local and interstate artists – Yung Warriors, Dylan Voller, Tommy G, Dem Arrernte Mob, Arli, and Isaac Puerile.
FRI 11 JUL | 5-7PM ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
Come to the Edge
Created and performed by Miriam Nicholls and the Dusty Feet Dance Collective, Come to the Edge explores transformation and courage through contemporary dance and physical theatre. With aerial choreography by Strings Attached and a musical backdrop by Max Richter, Portico Quartet, Ludovico Einaudi, and Nils Frahm, the theatre piece delivers an uplifting message.
SAT 12 JUL, 6PM
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
The time has come yet again to roll up, roll up, friends. Over three fun-filled Dry season days, the Royal Darwin Show returns to delight the masses, with over 45,000 of you expected to get around it.
WHEN YOU THINK about the Royal Darwin Show, what excites you most? Is it petting cute lil’ baby chicks, ogling at the cake competition, hitching a ride on the Ferris wheel, winning an oversized stuffed toy in the side-show alley, or marvelling at the chainsaw man’s wooden sculptures? If one or all the above resonated with you, then get along to the Royal Darwin Show.
For 74 years, the Royal Darwin Show has celebrated life in the NT. Each year, pavilions and grounds are packed with entertaining and educational displays and stalls, showcasing diverse local talents with arts, crafts, photography, baking, local produce, plants, and more.
In 2025, this tradition continues. Showgoers can expect to be wowed by acts and performances,
including the hilarious mascot race, The Sandman creating his impressive masterpieces, the V8 Performance Utes, and, for the little ones, the new Harry and Carly Ute Show.
If your little ones love dinosaurs, they are in for a treat. The Dinkum Dinosaurs are on deck with their hilarious puppet show that combines ventriloquism, comedy, and amazing dinosaur puppets. There’s also the Baby Dinosaurs Zoo display, as well as the Dinosaur Dance Party, complete with a four-metre-tall dancing dinosaur that will leave the kids in awe.
Horticultural Hall features a huge array of NT-grown produce and plants, with giant pumpkins, orchids and bromeliads, whilst furry friends are showcased in the Dog Arena with the Championship Dog Show and Trials.
Get ready, young peeps of Palmerston. Your festival is back!
RETURNING FOR A sixth edition, the Palmerston Youth Festival offers seven huge days of free activities and events, with over 7,000 attendees expected to get around it if last year’s festival is anything to go by.
City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell and her team have upped the ante for 2025, with some exciting new additions. She says it’s important to provide such cultural experiences for young people.
“Our youth are the heart of Palmerston’s future, and this festival is just one of the many ways we are investing in them,” Pascoe-Bell says.
“Palmerston Youth Festival is one of the most exciting times on our calendar. It is a celebration of creativity, connection and community. This event is about creating safe, inclusive and empowering spaces for our young people to express themselves, explore new experiences and have fun.”
New this year is the Creative Collective, which offers a mammoth arvy of art, music, comedy, and digital workshops. With young folks inspired by events like the Darwin and Palmerston Street Art Festivals, plus a keen interest in creative digital tech and game development, these are sure to be a hit.
The ever-popular Geekfest Top End returns with two huge days of geeky fun, including cosplay – featuring a special appearance from internationally renowned cosplayer Vera Chimera – gaming, medieval adventures, and markets, not to mention proper festival vibes with food trucks and arcade games.
There’s also the NAIDOC Pool Party at SWELL, an afternoon of indulgence and wellness at Pamper Palmy, a Sports Fest, daily competitions, and the chance to show off your creativity at Palmy’s Got Talent.
Young Palmerston friends, you are in for a. very. good. time.
Palmerston Youth Festival WHEN SAT 5 – FRI 11 JUL INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
Larrakia culture is celebrated with the traditional spear throwing and fire lighting competitions, both emceed by the legendary Charlie King, and supported by the Larrakia Lee family.
Not only does this year’s Show look good, it sounds good. The Bandstand features a diverse line-up of live music and performances, including the Royal Darwin Show Country Music Talent Quest, giving local performers a crack at a national scholarship to the CMAA Academy of Country music in Tamworth.
There’s honestly too much to list here – this thing is jam-packed! –so head along and celebrate the epitome of Territory livin’.
Oh, and there’s fireworks, too. Sold.
Royal Darwin Show
WHEN THU 24 – SAT 26 JUL AT DARWIN SHOWGROUNDS
COST FREE-$60 INFO darwinshow.com.au
The Dry season, with its refreshing breezes and balmy days, has well and truly arrived. So why not make the most of the glorious weather by heading to the front lawns of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory to peruse some of the finest arts and crafts the Territory has to offer?
WITH OVER 100 stalls brimming with prints, textiles, jewellery, clothing, ceramics, paintings, homewares and more, the Tactile Arts Makers Market is your chance to pick up a little special something for yourself, or for that special someone in your life.
Located just next door to the Tactile Arts studios, a short meander up the road rewards you with a glimpse into the Tactile Arts studios and how three artists in residence – Angela Soares, Mandy Pryse-Jones, and Catherine Miles – work their magic. It’s the perfect opportunity for up-and-coming makers to glean insights from their more experienced peers.
Aspiring artists of all kinds should also stay tuned for more
information about a creative drop-in activity set to take place at the markets – another chance to hone your creative skills.
While there is an abundance of amazing arts and crafts to discover, some exciting makers to keep an eye out for this year include well-known local children’s author and artist, Sandra Kendell, and two Wiradjuri sisters, Jodie and Jahrah Peckham, who live on Larrakia land and create under the label DandiArt.
DandiArt offers an array of astonishingly intricate earrings that showcase Aboriginal fabrics, while Kendell has framed illustrations of local birds and wildlife up for grabs, alongside her beloved picture books.
For Tactile Arts Event Manager Simone Porrovecchio, herself an artist and former stallholder, the Makers Market is a chance to support local artists.
“[Punters can] immerse themselves in the best of the local art community. It’s also just a nice day out in lovely weather!”
With stunning views of the Arafura Sea and soulful live music by Lilla Wellington to enjoy, we really couldn’t agree more!
Tactile Arts Makers Market WHEN SUN 20 JUL | 9AM-3PM AT MAGNT COST FREE INFO tactilearts.org.au
It’s Showtime!
Show Days roll out across the NT this month, with a bunch of fun coming your way.
ALICE SPRINGS SHOW | FRI 4 & SAT 5 JUL
TENNANT CREEK SHOW | FRI 11 JUL
KATHERINE SHOW | FRI 18 & SAT
19 JUL
DARWIN SHOW | THU 24-SAT 26 JUL
Intro to Block Printing Workshop
Enjoy the art form of printmaking in this three-hour workshop. In a comfortable and relaxed
environment, learn to design and carve a small block based on a design of your choosing. Blocks are printed several different ways before framing your final masterpiece. Materials supplied, no prior experience necessary.
SAT 5 JUL | 9AM-12PM & 2-5PM
NUNGALINYA COLLEGE $80 wawuruprints.com
NAIDOC Week
Celebrations are held across Australia to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The 2025 NAIDOC theme is 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy', so check out what's happening near you.
SUN 6 – SUN 13 JUL naidoc.org.au
Dry Season Plant Sale
Pick up some variety and colour for your garden at the Friends of the Darwin Botanic Gardens
Territory Day recognises the day the NT gained power, from the Commonwealth Government, to self-govern in 1978. Each year, Territorians come together to officially celebrate everything we love about this amazing place we call home. With fireworks. This year’s theme is ‘Our stories, our home, our Territory’. Have a cracker, everyone.
WHEN TUE 1 JUL INFO territoryday.nt.gov.au
plant sale. Offering a wide range including natives, indoor or outdoor house plants locally grown for Top End backyards.
SUN 6 JUL | 8AM-12PM
GEORGE BROWN BOTANIC GARDENS FREE facebook.com/ georgebrowndarwinbotanicgardens
Glass Fusing Workshop
This hands-on workshop welcomes all skill levels to explore creativity and design a stunning masterpiece that brightens your home with colour and texture. No prior experience needed for this rewarding artistic journey.
SUN 6 JUL | 10AM-12PM
TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS
$125 | $112 MEMB tactilearts.org.au
Deadly Cup Carnival
Check out some of the Territory’s best Rugby League talent, cultural activities including a Welcome Ceremony, a health expo to connect with local service providers, fun activities for the kids, delicious food, and much more!
SUN 6 JUL | 11AM-7PM
TRL STADIUM, MARRARA FREE facebook.com/deadlycupcarnival
Kids Wire Wrapping
With colourful crystals and easyto-use wires, kids twist, wrap, and shape their creations into dazzling pieces they can wear or display.
MON 7 JUL | 9.30-11AM
TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS
$40 | $37 MEMB tactilearts.org.au
Get that Job! Level Up – Café Skills Interested in getting a job but don’t know where to start? Join the Institute of Skills and Training Australia for a fun interactive workshop covering the basics of café work and customer service. This free workshop is being held at a proper city café after hours!
MON 7 JUL | 3-6PM
THE MEETING PLACE FREE (AGES 15-25) launchdarwin.com.au
FREE ze Skate
Grab your warmest winter gear and chill out at Darwin’s only ice rink! This free skating session is exclusively for teenagers. Bookings essential as places are limited. Ages 12-20.
WED 9 JUL | 5.30-7PM
DARWIN ICE SKATING CENTRE FREE launchdarwin.com.au
NT Irish Music Festival
Celebrate the vibrant culture of Ireland! With a brilliant music line-up, activities for the little ones, and the infectious energy of Irish dancing to enjoy, there’s something for everyone. Dine on traditional Irish favourites, perfectly paired with a schooner of Guinness or two, and embrace the undeniable charm of the Emerald Isle. That's the craic!
SAT 12 JUL | 2-10PM DARWIN SKI CLUB FREE-$50 ntirish.org.au
The Mega Annual Viking Funeral
One of Darwin's most loved events is back! See the Viking vessel burning, enjoy live music, extra bars, awesome food stalls, Most Likely Viking competitions for warriors, wenches and whelps, face painting, plus special performances by the Darwin Pipe Band and Top End Bow Hunters. Viking get-ups highly encouraged!
SAT 12 JUL | 5PM
DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT
ASSOCIATION
$50 | $15 CHILD | FREE MEMB dbcya.com.au
Rock Out with your Gnocch Out
This comedy-cooking adventure is packed with wine, laughter, and handmade gnocchi. Join Darwin’s dynamic duo, Monica and Briant, as they mix love, laughs, and willy jokes into one unforgettable show. If you like food, wine, and fun, this saucy session is for you!
SAT 12 & 19 JUL | 1-2PM
THE LAST SUPPER
$75 darwinfringe.org.au
Brushes and Cocktails: Territory Colours
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and textures of the Territory with Darwin Fringe Festival. Create stunning artwork inspired by Northern Australia’s landscape. Tickets include a cocktail of choice, all supplies, and a guided class to create your masterpiece.
SUN 13 JUL | 2-4.30PM
THE LAST SUPPER $95 darwinfringe.org.au
Relay For Life
This fun and moving event invites teams to come together with their friends, family, workplace or community group, and relay around a track to honour the cancer journey. It’s a chance to honour survivors, carers, and loved ones lost.
FRI 18 JUL, 5PM – SAT 19 JUL, 8AM TIO STADIUM FREE-$35 relayforlife.org.au
Too Much Stuff? Recycling Upcycling Market
Do you have too much stuff? Looking for something new? Whether you're leaving town, new to the area, moving, downsizing, feeling creative, or fundraising, there's something for everyone. There's also a dedicated drop-off point for hard to recycle goods. And it's free to have a stall!
SUN 27 JUL | 9AM-12PM
CLUB TROPICAL RESORT FREE facebook.com/toomuchstuffdarwin
Minor Burns Night
A cheeky off-calendar celebration of Robert Burns, featuring a welcome dram, tartan pride, and toasts to the Bard of Ayrshire. Expect poetry, laughter, and a proper nip of Scottish spirit – kilts and good banter encouraged.
SUN 27 JUL | 5-8PM THE LAST SUPPER $55 thelastsupper.com.au
Trivia Nights at Dom's
Think you know some stuff? Test your smarts and head to Dom's for a drink and a fun night of trivia.
EVERY THU | 7-9PM DOM'S BAR & LOUNGE FREE domsdarwin.com.au
Gather your crew, chairs and an appetite, and head along to Cullen Bay Foreshore every weekend where food trucks await to delight your taste buds, accompanied by the best sunsets in the Top End.
EVERY FRI, SAT & SUN | 5-8.30PM
CULLEN BAY MARINA FREE cullenbaymarina.com.au
TRE
TRE (Tension/Trauma Release
Exercises) uses movements like shaking, tremoring, and stretching to help release stored patterns of pain, stress and trauma.
MON 2, 14 & 28 JUL | 6.30-7.30PM THE WELLNESS HUB DARWIN $20 nebula.net.au
InVogue Dancing
Pop on your dancing shoes and enjoy a mix of standard ballroom and Latin American sequence dances.
EVERY FRI | 10AM-12PM
NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE
$8 infomania@internode.on.net
Movement Medicine
Conscious ecstatic dance, sure to entice the dancer in you!
EVERY SUN | 10-11.30AM
NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE $20 facebook.com/ movement-medicine-darwin
Kirtan Meditation
Kirtan is a form of meditation that utilises live music and mantras for a fully immersive experience. No experience is necessary, and all are welcome. The program includes meditation, a wisdom talk, and a meal to finish.
EVERY SUN | 5-7PM
NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE DONATION asmy.org.au/darwin
Breathwork and Meditation
EVERY SUN | 11.15AM
RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS
$20 | $18 SEN | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au
Sunset Yoga
Watch the beautiful sunset over Cullen Bay Beach as you move through this flowing yoga class with smooth transitions. All abilities welcome. BYO mat or hire available.
EVERY TUE, WED & THU | 6PM
RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS
$15 | $5 MAT HIRE | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au
An inclusive and all abilities community bike ride to support Bikes Mwerre – a local community youth bike program. The community bike ride is an opportunity to ride together, raise awareness of the physical, social and mental health benefits of bikes and awareness and fundraising for Bikes Mwerre participants.
WHEN SAT 12 JUL | 10AM-1PM AT ALBRECHT OVAL
COST $25-$100 DONATION | FREE, CHILD INFO bikesmwerre.org
Todd Mall Markets
Alice Springs' Todd Mall comes alive with Sunday Market Days. Browse the wide range of stalls selling art, craft, and local produce. Choose from handcrafted jewellery, paintings, clothing, homewares, and food, glorious food!
SUN 6 & 20 JUL | 9AM-1PM TODD MALL MARKETS COST FREE INFO toddmallmarkets.com.au
Bindi Enterprises Digital Textile Design Program
Bindi Enterprises is an innovative social enterprise providing supported employment and training opportunities for people with disability. They’ve launched a new Digital Textile Design program, expanding its Bindi Digital Art department. This program offers participants the chance to create digital artwork and transform it into fabric repeats. Open to all skill levels, it fosters creativity and provides disability support.
EVERY TUE | 1-3PM
BINDI ENTERPRISES
$130-$300 bindienterprises.org.au
Pizza Nights
Got a craving for pizza? Scratch that itch and grab a hot slice every Thursday at Epilogue Lounge. Whether you choose to share a few with your mates or want a hot disc of deliciousness all to yourself, there's plenty to go around.
EVERY THU | 5-10.30PM
EPILOGUE LOUNGE
$17 PIZZA | $7 HOUSE BEER epiloguelounge.com.au
Margi and Taco Saturdays
Turn your Saturday into Saturyay, amigos, with margs and tacos on the Epilogue Lounge Rooftop. Feel like busting a boogie? You can do that, too. Muy bien!
EVERY SAT | 5-10.30PM
EPILOGUE LOUNGE
$8-$35 TACOS | $15 MARGS epiloguelounge.com.au
Many visitors to Mparntwe/Alice Springs might not know there's a bubbling brunch scene to discover, and Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar has been a cornerstone of the town's café culture for many years.
EPILOGUE'S OUTDOOR SEATING area, featuring cozy heaters in winter, draws in a lively crowd – perched at the end of Todd Street Mall, next to Gregory Terrace.
Venue Manager Stefanie Prechtl, known as Stef, has worked at Epilogue for eight years, witnessing the venue's natural evolution since its opening in 2013.
“The owner Chris had the idea of a live music venue to have a cool place to hang out. His main focus being on the atmosphere, good music, great drinks and food,” she says.
While the venue buzzes with activity from morning until late evening, Wednesday through to Sunday, it’s the brunch menu that draws in a loyal stream of locals and travellers six days a week.
Featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic brekkie dishes alongside a few vegetarian twists, the mushroom medley is a favourite and the classic smashed avo – both available as vegan options.
tapas and gastro pub dishes, which has seen a few changes over the past few months.
“We’ve started smoking our meat in-house … 12 hours on the smoker by one of our chefs. That kicked off a month ago and it’s been going great,” Prechtl says.
“We use Milner Meats & Seafood, we source our fruit and veg from Central Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers, and we’re trying to get all the eggs locally sourced,” Prechtl says.
“The herbs are also grown locally.”
As for the dinner menu, Epilogue has always been known for its tasty
While downstairs the food takes centre stage, head on upstairs via the laneway to find a funky rooftop bar with live music gigs for those ready to kick on.
“We have Indigenous reggae bands, heavy metal gigs, rock nights with a local band Sneaky Train … and local bands like King Marong, which is a high energy African 10-piece band.”
If it’s not live music, Epilogue’s rooftop bar has themed DJ nights, and interactive music trivia once a month.
“It’s the atmosphere, really. People message us to say they had such a memorable night and everything together, the entertainment, together with the cocktails and the food to complement, is such a positive experience,” Prechtl says.
“We want people to remember Alice Springs for that.”
WHEN DAILY (EXC. MON) | VARIOUS HOURS INFO epiloguelounge.com.au
THERE’S NOTHING LIKE a weekend escape or mid-week break in the bush to refuel your spirit. Just a short drive from Alice Springs, Central Australia offers countless homesteads and campsites perfect for a quick adventure. Whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or a partner, you’ll find plenty of attractions to suit your travel style and discover the best of the Red Centre.
The East MacDonnell Ranges, often overshadowed by their western cousin, are a true hidden gem. With stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history, they’re the perfect destination for an easy getaway along the Ross Highway. Stop at Emily and Jessie Gap or Trephina Gorge before settling in for the night at a historic homestead.
Both Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat and Hale River Homestead offer cozy accommodation, camping options, and plenty to explore. For 4x4 enthusiasts, Ruby Gap is a rewarding challenge that offers a taste of the unspoiled, remote wilderness of the Red Centre.
For something truly unique, head north to Gemtree. Set up camp or stay in a cabin and spend your days fossicking for red garnets and zircons –an unforgettable experience. As the sun sets, relax by the campfire under a sky full of stars.
If luxury is more your style, Ooraminna Station Homestead has you covered. Stay in their beautiful glamping tents or charming cottages, unwind by the pool, and enjoy dinner at their scenic restaurant – an ideal blend of outback adventure and comfort.
Whether you’re after a touch of luxury, a classic camping trip, or a glamping experience, the Red Centre has it all.
TERRITORY DAY
Live music, entertainment and fire works | 5pm-8pm Goodline Park, Rosebery 1 1 11
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS CONTINUED WITH NAIDOC WEEK ACTIVITIES
Activities for kids, aimed at ages 5-12 years 10am | City of Palmerston Library
PALMERSTON YOUTH FESTIVAL
5 6 7
Geekfest Top End: Day 1, Palmerston Recreation Centre, Library and Goyder Square
Geekfest Top End: Day 2, Event Cinemas Palmerston
NAIDOC Pool Party, SWELL
Palmy’s Got Talent, Goyder Square 8 9 10 11
Pamper Palmy, Palmerston Recreation Centre
Sportsfest, Palmerston Recreation Centre
Creative Collective, Palmerston Recreation Centre
FLICNICS: IF Outdoor movie and kids entertainment 5:30pm-9pm | Sanctuary Lakes, Gunn
BREKKIE IN THE PARK
Free breakfast and activities 8am-10am | Phyllis Uren Park, Farrar
LIVE AT THE LAKE
Live music and kids entertainment 5pm-7:30pm | Marlow Lagoon
@cityofpalmerston palmerston.nt.gov.au
Flickerfest
WHEN SAT 19 JUL | BEST OF AUSTRALIAN SHORTS, 7PM | INDIGENOUS
SPOTLIGHT SHORTS, 9PM
AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA
COST $20 | $15 CONC
WHEN THU 24 JUL | BEST OF AUSTRALIAN SHORTS, 7PM
AT KATHERINE CINEMA 3
COST $16 | $13 CONC
$12 MEMB
INFO flickerfest.com.au
If you love your flicks short and sweet, you’re in luck. Flickerfest returns to Darwin and Katherine with some of the hottest short films getting around.
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
CELEBRATING 34 YEARS this year, Flickerfest is Australia’s Academy Qualifying and BAFTA Recognised short film festival. The official festival is held in Bondi Beach in Sydney each January, before hitting the road to bring bite-sized screen gems to the masses.
Festival Director Bronwyn Kidd says it’s important regional audiences have access to the festival, and world-class cinema.
"Flickerfest is always thrilled to bring our eclectic and creative programme of shorts back to the NT each year, to engage audiences with the most inspiring short films from at home and around the world."
In Darwin at Deckchair Cinema, and K-Town at Katherine Cinema 3, catch the Best of Australian Shorts, shining a spotlight on the incredible talent kicking around our country with a host of stories honouring our unique identity and culture.
Among this year’s award winners and highlights is Marcia and The Shark, winner of the Panasonic Award for Best Australian Short Film, starring Tilda Cobham-Hervey in a captivating and beautifully crafted story. The
FlicNics IF Dust off the picnic blanket and pack the snacks for City of Palmerston's free outdoor movie sessions, FlicNics. Get the gang together and catch a free screening of IF under the stars at Sanctuary Lakes, Gunn. Food trucks and pre-movie entertainment from 5.30pm.
SAT 19 JUL | 5.30PM SANCTUARY LAKES FREE palmerston.nt.gov.au
Bloody Mary Book Club
A relaxed afternoon of silent reading, drinks, and book chats. Bring any book to enjoy during quiet reading, then share it in a casual group discussion. Tickets include two drinks, light snacks, and great company!
SUN 20 JUL | 2.45-4.30PM THE LAST SUPPER $40 facebook.com/thelastsupperdarwin
JERVOIS ROAD, DARWIN WATERFRONT
$19 | $15 CONC | $10 MEMB
$10 CHILD | $44 FAM deckchaircinema.com
The Surfer In this gripping psychological thriller, a man returns to the idyllic beach of his childhood to surf with his son. But his desire to hit the waves is thwarted by a group of
locals. Humiliated and angry, the man is drawn into a conflict that rises in concert with the punishing heat of the summer, pushing him to breaking point.
TUE 1 JUL | 7PM
Bob Trevino Likes It A social media mishap introduces Lily to a stranger sharing her father's name, igniting a heartfelt journey of unexpected friendship and healing.
WED 9 JUL, 7PM | FRI 18 JUL, 9.10PM
Dahomey
Winner of the Golden Bear at Berlinale, Dahomey is a lyrical, hybrid documentary exploring the return of stolen artefacts to
Dog delivers a powerful and moving performance, while The Hoist brings plenty of laughs, telling an outrageously true story in the most hilarious way. Audiences are also delighted by The Fix-It-Man And Fix-It-Wooman – the Flickerfest 2025 award-winning animated short created by the talented artists from the Yarrenyty Arltere Town Camp, set against the bright lights of Alice Springs.
In Darwin, audiences can also check out the Indigenous Spotlight Shorts, featuring eight powerful films from some of the brightest voices in Indigenous cinema today.
Celebrate NT talent with Hydraulic, directed by Nicole Hutton Lewis who grew up in the NT, that follows a father and son on a wild goose chase with heart and humour. Another standout is Farm Block A67 by Indigenous directors Simone Detourbet, a writer and director from Darwin, and Jason Haji -Ali.
Get along, enjoy these bite-size flicks, and discover once and for all why size doesn’t matter.
Benin, blending archival footage, student voices, and the haunting perspective of a long-exiled statue.
MON 14 JUL | 7PM
ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE, ALICE SPRINGS
$17 | $14 CONC/MEMB | $11 CHILD araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au
The Shrouds Inconsolable since the death of his wife, Karsh invents GraveTech, a revolutionary and controversial technology that enables the living to monitor the dearly departed in their shrouds. One night, multiple graves, including that of Karsh’s wife, are desecrated. Karsh sets out to track down the perpetrators.
MON 7 JUL | 7PM
On August 30, 1972, in New York City, John Lennon played his only full-length show after leaving The Beatles, the One to One benefit concert with Yoko Ono at Madison Square Garden, a rollicking, dazzling performance. Oscar-winning filmmaker Kevin Macdonald’s riveting documentary takes that legendary musical event and uses it as the starting point to explore eighteen defining months in the lives of John and Yoko.
MON 14 JUL | 7PM
THURSDAY 23 APRIL
DARWIN
... Also, Darwin every year, I make it a tradition now … I have to wear shorts on stage. It's the only show every tour that I wear shorts on stage, because it's just practical. You can't be doing jeans.
Comedy sensation Luke Kidgell is much admired for his viral crowd work that turns live shows into unpredictable, wildly hilarious experiences. Rita Horanyi caught up with the talented improviser for a quick chat about his latest show, Good Intentions, the pitfalls of crowd work, and why trying to be good doesn’t always pan out.
Tell us a bit about your new show. It’s called Good Intentions. Do you usually have good intentions?
I try to! For sure. The new show is about, essentially, that I’m trying to become a better person and it’s not going very well, you know. I’m just trying to do things each day that make me better, and I tell stories where I mean well but it doesn’t always go to plan.
If you had to describe your new show in three words, what would they be?
Really, really funny.
As a comedian, you're well-known for your fast-paced crowd work that keeps everyone on their toes. What draws you to that aspect of comedy? It's just fun. It keeps it fresh every night. I think it's fun to do stuff that's spontaneous and it's just for that crowd, you know, like it's just something in the room that night. And, yeah, I don’t know, there’s just something fun about it. It just keeps it interesting ... I think!
It certainly does! Do you find there are times when crowd work doesn’t go so well?
It doesn't go well very regularly [laughs]. Even when it doesn't go well though, it's still funny, because it doesn't go well, you know what I mean?
But there are times that are weird ... sometimes I have people I know personally call out stuff, and then halfway through the interaction I realise who I'm talking to and that I know them. And then it’s always weird, because I'm like, what are you doing? That's happened before, where family members from interstate have called out during my show and I’m like, who am I ... oh my God, like, stop.
What are some of your favourite crowd work moments?
Luke Kidgell Good Intentions
WHEN THU 17 JUL | 7.30PM
AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
COST $54.90-$59.90
INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au
WHEN SAT 19 JUL | 7.30PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $54.90-$69.90
INFO yourcentre.com.au
I had a guy once on the Sunny Coast convince me he was a bindi farmer, like he farmed those little spiky things that are on the grass and the beach. And he convinced me that he and his dad farmed them, and the council pays them. And I'm an idiot. I'm very gullible and I believed him for about three minutes.
That’s hilarious. Maybe that guy needs to become a comedian. He should. He was funnier than me that night, that’s for sure!
What's your favourite thing about being a comedian? Probably travelling around and seeing new places. Waking up and not going to a traditional job. I know it sounds bad, but that's probably what appeals to me the most.
Sounds great! Speaking of travelling, you've been touring quite a lot lately. What's the best and worst thing about being on tour?
The best thing is seeing new places and avoiding Melbourne's winter in July, and the worst thing is probably living out of a suitcase and ... also trying to figure out how all the showers work around the world. Like each nob is slightly different in Europe, they do some wild stuff over there. Like knobs and buttons are the same. It's pretty wild. I'd say that's the worst thing – trying to figure out how the shower works. [laughs].
Have you had a favourite place to perform in so far?
I really do love performing in Australia, to be honest, but I mean, internationally, Canada was great. They're pretty much just Australians, but they talk funny. And I guess they think we talk funny. But yeah, I would say Canada was great. Scotland. I always love Scotland, and Barcelona was a surprise, but a really fun place to do shows in.
As part of this tour, you're doing shows in Alice Springs and Darwin. What are you looking forward to most about being in the NT?
The weather. The crowds. Genuinely the crowds are so, I don’t know if appreciative is the right word, but very warm and they're pretty stoked you're there, and it always is good. Also, Darwin every year, I make it a tradition now … I have to wear shorts on stage. It's the only show every tour that I wear shorts on stage, because it's just practical. You can't be doing jeans. I don't know, like, why do you guys even sell them? ... We don't even bring hoodies to sell at the merch table because no one would buy them.
After your Australian tour of Good Intentions wraps up, are you heading overseas?
Yes, going to New Zealand later in the year and then I’ll be taking it to a few other countries as well, which is very exciting.
Very! Any other exciting projects you’re working on?
I wish I had something cool to say. Not really. I do a podcast with my friends ... The podcast is called BLT, and I do it with my friends, another comedian Blake Pavey and our friend who’s a musician Tyler Cahill, and we just talk a lot of rubbish. We're doing a live show in Brisbane in August. That's gonna be fun. I learn how to play a song on guitar, because me and Tyler used to be in a high school band together, and he actually does music seriously now, but occasionally I get up on stage and bust out the guitar at our live shows, so that's gonna be interesting.
Something to look forward to! So, if people want some more Luke Kidgell hilarity after your show, they can check out your podcast. Exactly. Please do!
IF YOU’VE A love for boybands, good times, humour, and drag – or are intrigued by the mix – then strap in chaps. Big D is back!
There’s nothing like the heartbreak of your fave band members going their separate ways. Due to travel – not any personality clashes or diva attitudes – the two members that make up Darwin’s favourite boy band, Boyz2Boyz, have disbanded. For now.
But fear not, as Big D returns to Darwin Fringe Festival without his best mate Ova Ezzay with not one, but two different shows.
Created and performed by local entertainer Danielle Andrews, Big D stands for big dreams (get your mind out of the gutter, cheeky reader!) and was inspired by her long-standing adoration of boybands.
“It just comes from my deep, deep, deep love of boybands. I grew
up in boyband central, I have a weirdly encyclopaedic knowledge of boybands – an obsession with them – and I’ve always wanted to do drag,” she says.
“I never really figured out how to approach it. So, when Evie [Ova Ezzay] was up here, we worked together and did heaps of fun stuff together, and I was like, yeah, she’ll be dumb enough to do this with me, basically. But also, I have a background in dance that I don’t use a lot in other things, so it was a really fun way to get back into dancing and choreography, things like that.”
Usually a hit double-act, Big D’s going it alone in his show Big D: Going Solo. Andrews says it’s been a weird time rehearsing without her bandmate.
“It’s been sad. It’s definitely harder to try and choreograph by yourself, it’s way less fun, and hard to find the motivation,” she laughs.
“But a big part of the show is the idea of finding your true passion, and Ova Ezzay’s true passion turned out to be travel. So, he’s off travelling, and now Big D’s gotta find his true passion.”
There are two chances to catch this show at Brown’s Mart Studio, but if you want and/or need more Big D in your life, Boyband Brunch at The Last Supper is a must. Adult ticket holders enjoy a mimosa on arrival, but peeps of all ages are invited to feast on a bottomless brunch. Andrews reckons it’s gonna be a hoot.
“This is super dooper interactive
WORDS BROOKE GIBBS IMAGE DUANE PRESTON
Curated by Tracks Dance Company, this year’s line-up features works by Feras Shaheen, Grace Dong, Kate Mornane, and the Grey Panther Choreographic Ensemble – a group of dancers aged over 60
… each table becomes their own boyband, and then each boyband has to compete to be the ultimate boyband. It’s really fun. And it’s family-friendly – I want it to be accessible to everyone.”
However you choose to experience the Big D this month, Andrews hopes you all walk away with a smile on your chops.
“If you’re just up for some good, clean, stupid fun, that’s what we’re bringin’. Pure nostalgia, pure silliness, fun. You can even touch the abs after, if you want.”
Well. We’re sold.
exploring movement on their own terms.
David McMicken, Artistic Director at Tracks, says Fresh Tracks offers space for experimentation and development.
“One piece is collectively designed by a group of dancers over 60. It is rare for this age bracket to be visible in the contemporary dance space, although with an aging population, it is becoming more important,” he says.
Among this year’s works is a piece by Grace Dong. Drawing on her Chinese heritage, Grace’s choreography weaves together memory, identity, and sound, using music played by her own father.
Feras Shaheen, a guest choreographer and Detour National Residency artist, blends street dance, film, and installation with a strong sense of activism and community engagement. Kate Mornane explores the human condition through projection, movement, and visual art. The Grey Panthers challenge norms around age and visibility in dance, and present a joyful work developed from shared personal memories.
Big D: Going Solo WHEN TUE 15 & WED 16 JUL 8PM AT BROWN’S MART STUDIO COST $15-$20
Boyband Brunch WHEN SUN 20 JUL 11.30AM-1.30PM AT THE LAST SUPPER COST $60
INFO darwinfringe.org.au
“The body is very articulate if you let it be,” says McMicken.
“It is able to speak to the universal and intimate, without being held down by words. Ideas and experiences become embodied and by channeling them into physical activity, dance is born.”
Audiences can also engage directly with the choreographers, a rare opportunity in performance contexts.
“It is such a luxury to share short form works rather than having to develop full-length shows. Feedback and questions from the audience can really help choreographers understand their own work and whether it is hitting the marks they want.”
As contemporary dance continues to evolve, Fresh Tracks offers a window into the cultural roots, and personal journeys shaping the dance community today.
Fresh Tracks WHEN SUN 13 JUL | 3PM & 5PM AT TRACKS DANCE STUDIO COST $20 | CON $15 INFO tracksdance.com.au
Tracing back to the 1980s in Papunya, Warumpi Band's rise to fame, and their iconic breakthrough in the Australian music scene as the first Aboriginal rock band to sing in language, has a big story behind it.
WORDS JENNA HOARE
IMAGES JAMES HENRY
40 YEARS AFTER the band's debut album, Big Name, No Blankets, their legacy continues on stage with the aptly named rock‘n’roll theatre production retold through the eyes of founding lead guitarist Sammy Tjapanangka Butcher, portrayed by Baykali Ganambarr.
Following a national tour across every major city, including Darwin Festival in 2024 and Barunga Festival last month, the talented cast performs over two electrifying evenings at the Araluen Arts Centre in Mparntwe/Alice Springs as part of this year’s Desert Festival.
Co-director Anyupa Butcher, daughter of founding band member Sammy Butcher, says the production was developed over six years before going on tour with Ilbijerri Theatre Company.
“We premiered the show at the Sydney Festival last year at the Roslyn Packer Theatre and since then we have done all the major festivals across Australia in each capital city.”
Are you the next NT Poetry Slam Champ? Red Dirt Poetry hits the road to bring you poetry workshops and slam heats up and down the highway! All you need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic. The winner from the Top End and Central (September) heats goes on to represent the Northern Territory at the national finals.
Larrakia Studio Immerse yourself in a deeper understanding of Larrakia Culture and Country. More than just performances, these events are a celebration of identity, heritage, and the enduring spirit of the Larrakia people.
THU 3 JUL | 7-8.30PM
BROWN’S MART STUDIO
BARKLY POETRY SLAM | FRI 11 JUL, 6-8PM | TENNANT CREEK RSL
KATHERINE POETRY SLAM SUN 13 JUL, 5-7PM | KATHERINE REGIONAL ARTS
DARWIN POETRY SLAM & TOP END FINALS | THU 17 JUL, 6-8PM
FLORA’S TEMPER
$5 | DONATION reddirtpoetry.com.au
brand-new show, Infectious. The nurse-turned-comedian is an unstoppable force on the comedy circuit having performed her award-winning hit show, Sista Flo 2.0, for three solid years of sold-out seasons. Don’t miss her brand-new show!
FRI 11 JUL | 8PM
DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
$54-$59 yourcentre.com.au
Big Name, No Blankets
WHEN FRI 18 JUL | 7.30PM SAT 19 JUL | 7.30PM
AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
COST $75–$85
INFO desfest.com
Now, the production is returning home to Central Australia.
“I have some mixed feelings. I feel excited but I also feel like it will be an emotional experience for
family who haven’t seen it, and to bring the story home and just working with my Dad,” Butcher says.
“I think it will be a beautiful experience for him to watch it with his family surrounding him.”
Collaborating with award-winning writer Andrea James, the show features iconic songs ‘Blackfella/ Whitefella’ and ‘My Island Home’, while exploring themes of identity and resilience.
“For people to come together and experience a strength-based show that is around hope, and that was my father’s dream, was to bring hope to people and to its audiences,” Butcher says.
The performance is a meaningful reunion for the audiences who love the music.
“We’ve embedded Luritja throughout the script … it was important for us to represent our family and community and for audiences to listen to our language," Butcher says.
“I think Alice Springs will be the most important show that we’re going to do because it’s coming home.”
$18-$27 brownsmart.com.au
Get Rhythm | The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show
For the first time in Darwin, Get Rhythm – The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show brings the magic of country music’s most iconic duo to life. Featuring a live band, stunning visuals, and beloved hits like 'Ring of Fire' and 'Jackson', this heartfelt tribute promises an unforgettable night.
FRI 4 JUL | 8PM
DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
$49-$69 yourcentre.com.au
Two Psychics and a Medium
This captivating live show features Julia Cartagena, Donna Maree, and Anthony Grzelka. Experience powerful psychic readings, spirit messages, and incredible connections with the beyond. This interactive event promises hope, healing, and insight, so head along for an unforgettable night of mysticism and revelation.
SAT 5 JUL | 7-10.30PM
DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
$89-$150 yourcentre.com.au
Nurse Georgie Carroll Infectious Georgie Carroll is back with her
Beetle | Legs On The Wall Beetle follows a child who befriends a lost Christmas Beetle, embarking on a journey to find his family. Through Legs On The Wall’s physical storytelling and Freya Blackwood’s animations, this magical tale of resilience and connection explores Australia’s bushland, reminding young audiences of nature’s delicate balance and every creature’s importance.
WED 30 JUL | 10.30AM & 5.30PM
DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE $29 yourcentre.com.au
The Dirty Word
The Dirty Word is an open mic spoken word poetry event running on the first Thursday of every month. Share your words and let audiences be inspired by your prose, whether you're a bush balladeer, a slam champ, or a haiku heathen.
THU 3 JUL | 6-9PM THE ROASTERY
$5 | DONATION reddirtpoetry.com.au
They say a picture tells a thousand words. So, what better way to capture the wealth of experience and fascinating personalities of our senior Territorians than through an exhibition of vividly rendered portraits?
WORDS RITA HORANYI
BACK FOR ITS 26th year, the Portrait of Senior Territorian Awards (POAST) celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of senior Territorians to our community, as well as the talent and creativity of local portraiture artists. Each year the awards receive around 20 to 30 entries, a testament to the depth of portraiture talent in the Territory and to the extraordinary stories and achievements our senior generation have to share.
Last year, artist and ceramicist Dawn Beasley took home the top gong at the Awards for her evocative portrait of building designer, and motorsport enthusiast, Christopher Renehan. Well-known for his multiaward-winning building designs, Beasley’s portrait not only captures Renehan’s likeness, but also the drawings for one of his much-admired designs – an open-plan church in Bees Creek that was constructed on a budget usually reserved for a large shed!
For Beasley, winning the award was a lovely surprise.
“There’s some incredible portraits in the exhibition, so it’s a real honour when your work is considered to be up there amongst some of those really wonderful Territory painters.”
She also values the fact that the Awards are a celebration on multiple levels.
“There’s the fact that we’re celebrating senior Territorians, the people that they are, and what they’ve given to the Territory, but we’re also bringing together some of the best Territory artists – professional artists and amateur artists. It’s open to everyone, which is wonderful.
“It’s a celebration of both those things really, NT talent and the contribution that the senior generation has made to the Territory way of life.”
The winner of first prize takes home a tidy $7,000 and their work is acquired by Northern Territory Government, elevating the reputation of Territory artists and giving them an opportunity to become part of an important collection that captures Territory history.
Exciting innovations to the Awards are set to continue this year, including the recently created Young Artist Award and the popular Selfie with a Senior Award. The latter gives you a chance to get involved in the Awards – no painting skills required! Simply submit a photo of yourself and a senior, alongside a statement about how this senior has inspired you. Participating in the Selfie with a Senior Awards lets you hone your photography skills and helps ensure more of the stories, wisdom and experiences of our elder generation, which can often be overlooked, is shared. Plus, there’s $1,000 up for grabs for the winner.
Portrait of a Senior Territorian
Each year, POAST shifts between the tropics and the desert, with the Awards returning to Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs for 2025. So, if you’re in the Red Centre, make sure you don’t miss the chance to delve into some of the Territory’s fascinating characters, captured through the creative lens of local artists.
This exhibition honours the legacy of the Tiwi artists who were the founders of Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association, established at Milikapiti, Yermalner/Melville Island, 1988. With each passing generation, the mantle of Tiwi culture is passed from one generation to another.
Cavenagh Street, Darwin cdu.edu.au/artgallery UNTIL SAT 12
WATCH THIS SPACE
8 Gap Rd, Alice Springs wts@wts.org.au
Join Watch This Space for a special preview of kaltjinthama/kaltjerrama (teaching/learning) by Hermannsburg Potters, featuring the exhibition opening and film launch before the public opening. Enjoy food, artist talks, and the first screening of the new animation.
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher Street, The Gardens | magnt.net.au
Watch this Space and CDU Academy of the Arts have teamed up to bring you this interactive exhibition. Curated by Doris Stuart, Dan Murphy and Lucy Stewart, it features creative responses inspired by the long-running and much-loved Alice to Mparntwe sacred sites tours for artists and storytellers.
Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre Lot 3238 Stuart Hwy, Katherine | gyracc.org.au
Co-developed by the Godinymayin Centre and the Waralungku Art Centre, this unique exhibition showcases the knowledge and creative practices of artists from Borroloola, highlighting their profound understanding of and connection to water. The exhibition also celebrates the creativity of students from Borroloola School.
This heartwarming exhibition, inspired by the book of the same name, features the original artworks created by the students of the Barunga community alongside the song they wrote with Justine Clarke, in partnership with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
OUTSTATION GALLERY
Darwin Waterfront outstation.com.au
Katie Nalgood’s vibrant bird caricatures fuse cultural significance and spiritual connection, while embodying the beauty and strength of the Pilbara. Recent achievements include her participation in Tarnanthi and being a finalist in the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA). Her delightful and endearing artworks are coveted both nationally and internationally.
UNTIL
Wendy Hubert is a respected Yindjibarndi Elder, Cultural Custodian, and linguist who has supported her community for over 40 years. Her paintings reflect Yindjibarndi and Guruma Country, drawn from memory or time on Country, and she inspires younger generations with stories, culture, and knowledge passed down through lived experience.
UNTIL WED 9 JUL
Elder and senior artist Alice Guiness presents Burndud Ground – a powerful exploration of the Burndud, a ceremonial site and story from Yindjibarndi Ngurra (Country) in remote WA. Burndud Ground invites reflection on Guiness’ lived experience of art making, ceremonial dance, and her enduring connection to Ngurra.
OUTSTATION GALLERY
8 Parap Place, Parap outstation.com.au
A group exhibition in association with Warlukurlangu Artists, featuring Tasha Nampijinpa Collins and emerging Warlpiri artists from the communities of Yuendumu and Nyirripi.
“I paint ngapa jukurrpa Ngapa means water. I paint ngapa at a place called Puyurru...I love making paintings.” - Tasha Nampijinpa Collins
UNTIL WED 9 JUL
A stunning group exhibition by the artists of Iwantja Arts, highlighting the powerful collaborative works of
WHEN SAT 12 – WED 30 JUL
and paint in
WHEN SAT 12 – WED 30 JUL
19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay tactilearts.org.au
A preview of new work by Therese Ritchie. From 4chan to DOGE, Sloppy is about the internet, Jesus, algorithms, oligarchs, elites, AI, memes, conspiracy theories and teenage boys.
Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre aboriginalbushtraders.com
DARWIN VISUAL ARTS
8 McMinn St, Darwin dvaa.net.au
A showcase of work from Numbulwar Numburindi Artists (NNA). Champions of fibre art, NNA artists marry naturally dyed and locally harvested pandanus with bright, bold ghost nets. Their wulbung (baskets) and yir (dillybags) fit as naturally in traditional applications as they do in contemporary urban environments.
ArtBroken is an audacious exploration of the concept of 'broken' –shattering conventions, traditions, and preconceptions to redefine artistic expression. This multifaceted exhibition brings together a group of diverse artists, each interpreting the theme through their own distinct medium and experience.
UNTIL SAT 12 JUL
on canvas
This is an exhibition of new work by Free Space Studio artists, curated by Arts Access Darwin. Artists share connections to Country, sensory moments, and emotional insights through line, form, and colour. Realisation may spark an idea, resolve a work, or reflect technical growth, each stage essential to a lifelong, evolving creative practice.
Library & Archives NT - Danala, The Education and Community Precinct, Darwin artbacknt.com.au
This Artback NT touring exhibition celebrates the Papunya Literature Production Centre’s pioneering creation of Pintupi-Luritja literature through original artwork, storybooks, photos, manuscripts, and multimedia, reflecting community, history and culture.
Northern Centre for Contemporary Art Vimy Lane, Parap | nccart.com
Unit 3/1 Clocktower Caryota Crt, Coconut Grove darwincommunityarts.org
As a part of Darwin Fringe Festival, Secret Art is a showcase of new unreleased works by visual artists aged 12-25. Secret Art reflects the incredible talent brewing around Darwin and beyond. Supported by City of Darwin’s LAUNCH youth program and Darwin Community Arts. Celebrate Darwin’s diverse emerging artists.
WHEN FRI 4 – THU 24 JUL | OPENING FRI 4 JUL, 5.30PM
UNTIL TUE 16 SEP
Queer Territory is the first significant survey exhibition of queer contemporary art practice in the NT, realised through the work of 20 artists spanning from the 1990s to today. Expectant themes of sex and sexuality converge with broader and idiosyncratic concerns from environmentalism, spirituality, cultural affirmation and the grotesque.
UNTIL SAT 12 JUL
Andrew Ewing (1964-2021), 'Carry', 2015, acrylic on primed paper, 70x50cm. © the estate of Andrew Ewing. Charles Darwin University Art Collection, CDU3465. Gift of Maurice O’Riordan & Gary Lee, 2022.
Kate Ceberano has dazzled audiences for nearly 40 years with her show-stopping voice and charismatic stage presence. A true Aussie icon, her latest show Australian Made commemorates her first ever tour experience and pays tribute to the homegrown hits that have shaped her.
Rita Horanyi chatted with the celebrated singer about reaching her creative apex and how she keeps connecting with new audiences.
Your new tour marks nearly 40 years. What a milestone! How does it feel to still be doing what you love?
It’s a privilege. I think being alive is a privilege and there’s not a moment of my life where I waste a moment of it. This tour, we just did the opening weekend, and it’s the most exhilarating thing I’ve done in my whole life ...
There’s no way you can predict if you can last as long as I have, but you can feel secure. It’s not like anyone can un-Kate Ceberano me ... You just go out there with all of the skills that I’ve learnt over 40 years and this amazing team that I’ve got ... It’s freedom from self-criticism ... it’s just exquisite freedom to create.
Tell us a bit more about the inspo behind the Australian Made Tour. Being in Victoria under COVID changed my sense of self as a musician, as an artist. It basically assumed for anyone who was at the pointy end of a career that they would be like, “okay, you’ve done a great job, you should be satisfied ... just live and relax and enjoy that you’ve had a wonderful expressive life and creatively you’ve done everything you ever dreamt you would.”
But I just didn’t feel like that.
I felt creatively at an apex in my life ... I’d never been more valuable to society. I’d raised a lot of money in the year before COVID for different things ... And it was then that I started doing a broadcast each week with my husband, who’s a filmmaker, and a girl that was living with us, Kathleen Halloran, who’s a young guitarist, and is also on this tour with me. We were doing fundraising, and we raised money for a lot of our industry that wasn’t able to work during that time ... And then we all came out the other side and ... my husband and I decided, we are not going to not keep playing, so we combined our efforts and that’s when the idea of this gig came along.
You’ve had this incredibly multi-faceted career, recorded 30 albums, won countless awards, you’ve written an autobiography and started painting
– any particular achievement a highlight for you?
I’m always very committed to the thing I’m in. And I feel like that thing is the sum of the parts that make me, and for that reason I’m always most loyal to the moment I'm at, like now. The moment I'm in now seems to me like the best thing I've ever done in my life. And I think that’s because I keep asking questions and seeking new answers, and I'm seeking new heights as a human. I want more.
There are career highlights obviously and every one of them has their own potency, but again it all just ends up at the same day, and the same day I wake up and ask the question, “what am I going to be today?”
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects in the pipeline?
As you cast out a net and go fishing for certain things, you realize that, maybe for the longest time, the only person who's been limiting the whole process is yourself. I mean, there's a big world out there. I've nothing to fear at this age. I could just cast my net further. Some would say, “Oh, you should be satisfied with what you've done and how you've managed to create a career in a country. It's a privilege, it's amazing.” But maybe in the third quarter, it might be about throwing the net out further. Who knows?
... you had INXS and you had Jimmy, and you had The Saints, who were punks, and then you had this pop band, I’m Talking, and you had Mental as Anything, and the list goes on. So, we decided it’s time ... let’s just keep on putting Australia back on the plate.
We thought, okay, it’s coming up to the 40th anniversary of Australian Made [Ceberano's first touring concert in 1986-1987], and that would be a wonderful way to show Australia how to be very Australian. We’d been told back then that an Australian line-up wouldn’t fill a stadium.
Nothing much has changed! Except that we defied them and said that’s bullsh-t. All the bands at the time had nothing in common musically ... And so, you had INXS and you had Jimmy, and you had The Saints, who were punks, and then you had this pop band, I’m Talking, and you had Mental as Anything, and the list goes on. So, we decided it’s time ... let’s just keep on putting Australia back on the plate.
I'm quite happy doing this. I could just do this for the rest of my life as well, but that would be a shame because Australian music needs to be heard in other countries ... Imagine doing this show, as Australians, taking it to a country that’s never heard me or the music and they go “wow, that's really deep”. That would be fun.
It would be fun! And it links back to my final question, what's the best thing about being on tour?
It takes a lot of courage to get up each and every night and put yourself out there and expose your dreams and hopes to a new public. You have to be able to decide that the outcome of it is not really the object, right? People will love or hate you. Doesn't matter.
But what you do have to do every day is you have to show up and deliver and know that somewhere out there in the audience, it's going to be really good for them, they’ll either have some release or they'll have a moment recalling their life when they were a certain age or at a certain time that felt most vivid.
And I think that when you're going out there each and every day and you're doing that, then it becomes a service for others instead of for yourself, and I think that's a pretty noble thing to do.
Two of the Territory's best-known indie-electronic songwriter/producers come together for a special performance at Bustard Town.
DARWIN’S BEN ALLEN – aka Broadwing – hits the stage with his full band, supported by the Red Centre’s Dave Crowe – aka Resin Moon – hot on the heels of the release of their first official collab ‘Thread’ last month.
The tune was penned by the pair and premiered at Darwin Festival in 2022 as part of the My Sunburnt Soundtrack live music project, which featured six NT artists showcasing their songs in response to what it means to be a Territorian.
The track’s been incubating in the studio in the years since, with files, beats, and tape-saturated synths exchanged between the desert and Top End.
“This is the first song of the My Sunburnt Soundtrack project that’s been released as a recording, so that’s really exciting, because it was one of my favourite songs from that whole project,” Crowe says.
“This one, we decided to keep working on and polishing, sending files back and forth, and it’s a song about connection and that thread that links us together, through friendships or creative partnerships, so it seemed kind of fitting. And yeah, we finished it off recently and wanted to share it with the world!”
The award-winning musicians have been chums for well over a decade, collaborating on a swag of scores of NT-based releases over the years, including ‘Shadows on Blue’, which featured in Hollywood film Adam, tracks for ARIA nominated North East Arnhem Land artist Gawurra, and David Garnham's recent double album, The Stuart Highway Part 1 and Part 2.
Crowe reckons their common influences in music, paired with a solid friendship, is the secret to their success.
“We just work really well together
because of our shared love of production and experimental electronic music. We have a lot of similar artists that we’re influenced by, like Thom Yorke and Radiohead … We’re able to share a lot of ideas and be on the same wavelength a lot of the time when it comes to the way our music sounds,” Crowe says.
“We’ve known each other for about 13 years. I first came across Ben’s music when I heard it on triple j when I was driving around Alice Springs, and heard this amazing song, and they said it was Alice Springs musician Broadwing, and I thought, ‘who is this guy?’
“So, I immediately stalked him online and sent him some messages. And yeah, he was keen
Darwin Chorale has been inspiring and entertaining the community with uplifting renditions of a wide range of choral repertoire for 40 years.
WORDS RITA
HORANYI
TO CELEBRATE THIS significant milestone, the much-loved community choir is putting on an unforgettable Ruby Jubilee 40th Anniversary Concert that pays tribute to their four decades of musical excellence.
Embark on a musical adventure down memory lane, as Darwin Chorale gets ready to regale audiences with highlights from their most memorable performances of the past 10 years. Running
to get together. We’re both pretty shy, introverted kind of personalities, but were keen to get together and share some ideas and have a jam, and that’s how it all started … We pretty soon became friends.”
The collaboration of NT musos across our landscape, from desert to sea, is exciting, and something Crowe reckons we should embrace.
“These kinds of collaborations are so important … because, even though there’s this vast geographical distance, I feel like we have so much in common creatively and culturally. It’s nice to be able to share these kinds of projects where we might be separated by 1,600kms, but we can still feel connected, and feel like we’re part of one project or one sound.”
recent months.
Word on the street is you’ll get to hear ‘Thread’, so head along and see what these incredibly talented Territorians have been up to.
Broadwing + Resin Moon
WHEN THU 3 JUL | 7.30PM AT BUSTARD TOWN COST $20 INFO facebook.com/ broadwingmusic facebook.com/resinmoon
the gamut from Verdi to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita to pop hits performed cabaret style, this birthday bash truly has something for everyone.
Expect more than singing, with costumes and choreography, too!
Artistic Director of the show and long-standing member of Darwin Chorale, Resy van Beek, explains some of the vision behind the big anniversary event.
“Because it’s a really big celebration ... I really want it to become a party on stage, so we have one section where we are all dressed in our cocktail party gear and we’re going to have a much more formal gala section ... and hopefully the audience feel that they are part of the celebration.”
The concert is also an opportunity to celebrate the sense of community Darwin Chorale creates.
“We have a few members who have been members for the whole 40 years,” van Beek explains.
“We have people who are completely new in this concert,
so it’s the start of their Darwin Chorale journey, and then people who have been singing for 40 years. It’s this whole range of ages, backgrounds, interests, and you just come together because you have to share the love for music.”
Dedicated fans can keep on sharing the love at a special Ruby Jubilee Gala Dinner the following evening, featuring DJs and a three-course meal. So head along and help celebrate this once-in-a-generation musical event.
Ruby Jubilee 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner WHEN SAT 12 JUL | 6.30PM DOORS | 7PM DINNER AT HILTON DOUBLETREE COST $130 INFO darwinchorale.org.au
First Folk'n Fridays
Enjoy a showcase of the best local, original music in the NT, all in one place at Happy Yess. Different artists every month, hosted by the Top End Folk Club.
FRI 4 JUL | 7.30-10PM HAPPY YESS
$15 | $10 MEMB topendfolkclub.org
Folk Music Workshop
Monthly music workshop hosted by the Top End Folk Club where participants bring their own instruments and learn a folk tune or technique by ear from a rotating guest musician. All levels welcome!
SAT 5 JUL | 2-3.30PM
DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS THEATRE FREE topendfolkclub.org
Ward Hancock
Get along to Bustard Town for an intimate dinner and show filled with original music, tasty food, and easy al fresco ambience. Local musician Ward Hancock has honed his skills down south and around the world, resulting in a flowing set of reggae, folk and soul.
SAT 5 JUL | 7.30-10PM
BUSTARD TOWN FREE facebook.com/wardhancockmusic
This relaxing monthly arvo of music is a must-see, must-do, must-hear. Strum a song and belt out a ballad or kick back with a drink in the shade while other talented musos do!
SUN 6 JUL | 3-7PM
TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB FREE facebook.com/firstsundayblues
Darwin Celtic Music Sessions
Drop in with your mates and your instruments for good tunes and some good craic at Darwin's monthly Celtic music session. Newcomers welcome.
SUN 6 JUL | 4.30-7.30PM THE LAST SUPPER FREE topendfolkclub.org
romaan Narrm/Melbourne artist romaan debuts her festival show at Darwin Fringe. Blending indie-folk and blues-pop, she explores mental health and self-expression through intimate, reflective melodies that invite listeners to settle in and connect.
THU 17 JUL | 5-5.45PM
BROWN’S MART COURTYARD FREE darwinfringe.org.au
Tropical Arafura Rhythms
Join Arafura Wind Ensemble at the Town Hall Ruins for this free Darwin Fringe event, as they present a program of Latin-inspired hot spicy numbers, tempered by a few cool sultry seductive mellow tunes. BYO picnic blankets and a picnic dinner – but no booze, as this is an alcohol-free event.
SAT 19 JUL | 6-7PM TOWN HALL RUINS FREE darwinfringe.org.au
Leah Flanagan Railway Residency
Join beloved songwriter Leah Flanagan for a soul-stirring Sunday afternoon of live music at the iconic Darwin Railway Club.
The first date of a six-month residency, this is a rare chance to see Flanagan live in an intimate setting, performing new material and fan favourites with support from Alice Cotton.
SUN 20 JUL | 3-6PM
DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB
$10 | DONATED TO ENVIRONMENT CENTRE NT leahflanagan.com
Sunset Series: Leash and the Dusty Boots
Leash and the Dusty Boots is vocalist and guitarist Alicia Scobie and Tim Webb on backing vocals and guitar. They play original tunes that sit somewhere between alternative country, blues and folk.
FRI 25 JUL | 6-8PM
GYRACC
$10 | FREE CHILD gyracc.org.au
Emily Lubitz
After more than a decade releasing albums and touring with award-winning indie-folk pioneers Tinpan Orange, Emily Lubitz has stepped out on her own. Her debut album, Two Black Horses,
is released this month, and she's hitting the Darwin Railway Club as part of her national launch tour.
SAT 26 JUL | 7PM
DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $25 facebook.com/darwinrailwayclub
Sunset Series: Emmy Ryan
Emmy Ryan is a folk singer based in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, who is stopping by Godinymayin to share her soul-stirring vocals as she tours the NT.
THU 31 JUL | 6-8PM GYRACC
$10 | FREE CHILD gyracc.org.au
Steve Case Join acoustic one-man band and outback entertainer Steve Case for relaxed sing-alongs under the majestic Banyan Tree at the famous Banyan Tree Resort.
DAILY (EXC. SUN) | 5-7PM LITCHFIELD BANYAN TREE RESORT FREE banyan-tree.com.au
The Chris Callaghan Show
A relaxed and authentic delivery of original songs with Chris' own brand of country. 'Whatever It Takes', 'Don't Be a Stranger', 'Let's Say a Prayer' and 'Honky Tonk Country Blue', just to name a few! Plus, the classics by Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson.
DAILY UNTIL SUN 13 JUL | 5-7PM PINK PANTHER HOTEL, LARRIMAH FREE larrimahhotel.com.au
Nat & Will Duo EVERY TUE | 9PM-12AM SWEETHEARTS FREE thecinemacollective.com.au
Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf
Grab a bite to eat, a cold bev, and settle in for three hours of live music at the Wharf as you take in one of the best views of Darwin Harbour.
EVERY WED & SUN | 6-9PM STOKES HILL WHARF FREE waterfront.nt.gov.au
Hot 'n' Cold Big Band Experience this 18-piece sensation
Hailing from the music-filled streets of Melbourne, Shaun Kirk is an award-winning blues and soul troubadour, recognised for his exceptional talent as a born entertainer.
| 7.30PM
every Wednesday night, live on stage. Entry includes a free Swing Dance NT lesson – learn the skills and wow your chums at your next shindig.
EVERY WED | 8-10PM
DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB
$10 facebook.com/darwinrailwayclub
Gravy Train EVERY THU | 6-9PM FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFÉ FREE facebook.com/@gravytrainofficial
Crystal Robins
Treat your ears to chilled acoustic covers and original songs. Grab a drink and a feed, and enjoy the sunset as you're serenaded by one of Darwin's sweetest voices.
EVERY SUN | 6-9PM
FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFE FREE foreshorecafe.com.au
Fejo & The Cruizers
Get ready to boogie with a night full of reggae, R&B, soul and hip hop. Jamie Fejo (Western Aranda (Ntaria) is a singer/song-writer/ multi-instrumentalist, and his six piece band, The Cruizers, bring soul-stirring beats and messages of strength, unity and Country. Supported by local acts and bands.
THU 3 JUL | 8PM
EPILOGUE LOUNGE
$20 facebook.com/epiloguelounge
Live on the Lawns
MusicNT presents another season of fortnightly free lunchtime gigs in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, and everyone’s invited to join the team on the Old Courthouse lawns every second Wednesday to enjoy original live music on your lunch hour. Check their Facey page for line-up deets. Trust us when we say there’s some serious talent kicking around the desert!
WED 9 & 23 JUL | 12.30-2PM OLD COURTHOUSE LAWNS FREE musicnt.com.au
Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery
Every Friday, head along to The Roastery for lunch, and enjoy a tipple from the bar and music. Musicians from across the community take the stage while punters slide on into the weekend. Nice.
EVERY FRI | 12-2PM THE ROASTERY FREE duyucoffee.net
Sunday Sessions Dive into some sweet tunes every Sunday at Alice Springs Brewing Co, and enjoy a few cold ones and a feed in the sunshine with friends and fam. Keen to strum a ditty or two? Throw your name in the hat!
EVERY SUN | 4-8.30PM ALICE SPRINGS BREWING CO FREE facebook.com/aspbco
Friday Vinyl Knock offs Dive into the weekend with an evening of pure analogue magic, as DJs dig deep into the crates to bring you the best in funk, soul, Latin, reggae, disco, house and afrobeat – all live on vinyl.
EVERY FRI | 5-9PM EPILOGUE LOUNGE FREE facebook.com/epiloguelounge
