"This is a space to share, discover and experience amazing First Nations and local content across the Festival"
The Port Fairy Folk Festival is set to rock the shores of Victoria once again, and this time, the spotlight is firmly on the legendary Archie Roach Stage. After a triumphant debut in 2022, the stage returns in 2024 with a stellar lineup that promises a feast for the senses.
This stage, brought to you by the ongoing partnership between the Port Fairy Folk Festival and the Archie Roach Foundation, is generously supported by Creative Victoria and Creative Australia. The Archie Roach Stage, inaugurated in 2022, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Uncle Archie Roach AC, the Eastern Maar Elder, and national treasure who left for the Dreamtime in July 2022.
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Uncle Archie, with a grin stretching from ear to ear, officially opened the stage on his mother’s ancestral lands during the 2022 festival. This year, the stage will once again play host to an array of cultural activities and a diverse line-up of First Nations artists, paying homage to Uncle Archie’s proud tradition of storytelling through music.
The impressive list of performers includes Alice Skye, Arrkula Yinbayarra (featuring Dr Shellie Morris AO), Charlie Needs Braces, Christine Anu, The Deans of Soul, Jalgany, Jem Cassar-Daley, Joe Geia Band, JUNGAJI, Mau Power, The Merindas, and many more. Festival-goers can also expect captivating showcases such as ‘Singing Our Futures,’ featuring talents like Katie Aspel, Janaya Roach, CANISHA, Gugin Bruthaz, and SEDRIECE.
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Apart from the musical festivities, the Archie Roach Stage will host cultural activities, including traditional dance workshops, yidaki healing sessions, and a traditional art workshop. The Yarning Circle, led by Senior Eastern Maar Elder Uncle Rob Lowe, promises to be a space for meaningful conversations and connections.
Justin Rudge, the Program Director for Port Fairy Folk Festival, expressed his pride in the ongoing collaboration with the Archie Roach Foundation. Rudge shared, “We are proud to continue our collaboration with the Archie Roach Foundation and celebrate extraordinary music and stories from this stage and across the Festival arena in 2024. This is a space to share, discover and experience amazing First Nations and local content across the Festival, curated by First Nations producer Candice Lorrae. I like to think that Uncle Archie will be there with us in spirit.”
The Port Fairy Folk Festival is slated to take place over the Labour Day long weekend, from 8-11 March 2024. Limited tickets are still available, so grab yours now to witness this unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community.
For booking information and to explore the region, visit portfairyfolkfestival.com.
