A festival that hopes to tap in to who we are is set to take place in Bendigo from March 1220. March 15 is the official launch of the Bendigo Festival of Cultures, with the Library Gardens welcoming cultural dance and music performances and an interactive West African drumming display.
Among the many highlights is the ‘Celebrating Who We Are’ concert which takes place on Saturday, March 19. Featuring bands with a multicultural flavour, or those known for supporting multiculturalism, three stages will provide tunes all day – the Hargreaves Mall stage, an acoustic stage at the Library Gardens and a main stage outside the Town Hall.
As part of a familyfriendly day, the Celebrating Who We Are concert is a free event that features Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie & Lisa Edwards, Taste, Dear Stalker, Holmsey (featuring Kerri Simpson), Broderick Smith, Claymore, Sol Nation, Monique Brumby, Masco Sound System, Colibrium, Bill Barber, Past Present, Urban Creatures, Michael Yule, Jade Ulani, Geoffrey Williams and Ajak Kwai. Art, food, forums, markets and exhibitions will also feature throughout the festival.
The Festival of Cultures is an initiative of Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services and has been a yearly celebration since 2001. Further information is available through bendigofestivalofcultures.org.au.
