The Anglesea Music Festival is back for 2016, and by now you should all know that Boom Crash Opera, Dale Ryder, Taxi Ride and Jason Singh are headlining the one-day event taking place on January 23 next year. With a first announcement like that, it is no surprise that ticket sales are booming the best since its conception back in 2010. It’s just over three months out from the festival as I begin to chat with director Karren Stoneham.
“It’s really kicking into gear once again and it’s great to have the festival back once again. When we got confirmation that Taxiride, Boom Crash Opera and Dale Ryder, were really keen to play, well, that was a very exciting day,” she says.
“I really couldn’t believe that we secured them and they sell out everywhere they play. So to get them together is going to be a real highlight of the festival. They always know how to put on such a show and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Talking about the logistics of putting on such an event, it seems that although the festival has been stripped back to a one day event, as opposed to an all weekend show, the same amount of work has to take place.
“We are all volunteers at this festival and are in it for the love of music. There is a lot of work to run a festival and we have a team behind the scenes, that are ticking off all the boxes to make it the best day we could possibly have,” Stoneham says.
“In previous years, festival goers have often wondered whether they go Friday, Saturday or Sunday, and we just thought it would be easier to make it a one-day event, and create the same atmosphere. It will be a lot livelier and more of a happening event than previous years.”
At the helm since the beginning of the festival in 2010, Stoneham’s love of music has always been very infectious to the volunteers that have been involved over the years. The 2016 one-day event pays homage to the origins of the festival which dates back to 1999.
“I started Anglesea Live back in 1999 and it was a music night that people could book in from all walks of life and that grew into what we know today,” she says.
With various new aspects to this festival, including a massive arts and crafts market to be held as well on the day, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. From the up and coming artist stage and internships offered in partnership with Oxygen Music, there is no better time to get on board with the Anglesea Music Festival.
The local school camps in Anglesea (YMCA and Coastal Forest Lodge) are also offering group bookings for festival ticket holders so be sure to keep your eyes on the social media outlets for all of the rolling updates.
Throughout the interview, it seemed the main philosophy that Stoneham was trying to get across was the involvement of youth within the festival. “I just want to give opportunities to the youth, and give them the love of music. I’m not looking for a pat on the back but people need to know that music can help all facets of their life. I can’t wait to share this festival with everyone and look forward to seeing everyone down there!”
Written by Tex Miller
When & Where: Anglesea Music Festival, Anglesea – January 23
