Boomerang runs inside Bluesfest, Byron Bay over the Easter Long Weekend, March 30 – April 1.
Since its creation in 1990, Bluesfest has gained a reputation as one of the most dynamic and inclusive cultural experiences in the country, now in alignment and collaboration with Boomerang Festival.
Making indigenous culture accessible, Boomerang showcases an impressive and holistic calibre of artists hailing from Arnhem Land, Canada, Papua New Guinea, Asia and the Pacific.
"The Boomerang Festival sitting within Bluesfest, is a vital precinct that increases the visibility of our culture, I want everyone to hear the music, witness the dance, sing the song and listen to the story." ~ Rhonda Roberts, Boomerang Director.
Featuring an array of music, dance, theatre, comedy, film and visual arts, along with cultural knowledge exchanges and thought-provoking conversations, checking out Boomerang is a must experience for Bluesfest goers from all walks of life.
Among the performers for Boomerang Festival 2018 is new generation artist Yirrmal Marika. Hailing from Yirrkala in Arnham land, he has made a refreshing entrance into the music scene. Inspired by his grandfather, Dr Yunupingu, former lead singer of Yothu Yindi, he fuses traditional and contemporary arrangements with class and passion. Yirrmal is an inspiring songwriter and guitarist with a beautiful voice, singing songs about his homeland and culture with feeling and depth beyond his years. Yirrmal will be playing on Saturday, March 31.
This year also welcomes Boomerang newcomer Benny Walker. A Yorta Yorta man from Echuca, Walker is the real deal and a star in the making. His killer voice and tales are mixed with a deep groove and passion for the land. Recent songs "Save” and "Oh No You Don’t” shot to No. 1 on the AMRAP charts and later earnt him four NIMA 2016 nominations and the award for "Best Aboriginal Talent” at The Age Music Victoria Awards. Benny Walker has performed alongside some of Australia’s finest, including Archie Roach, Alex Lloyd, Blue King Brown and Tim Rogers. Benny Walker will be on stage on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1.
Back again to wow audiences with hair raising emotional performances are the Muggera Dancers. Performing traditional dance to live song and didgeridoo, this talented bunch also perform an imperative aspect of their culture with a smoking ceremony, involving the audience in this cherished tradition. See the Muggera Dancers perform on Friday, March 30 and Saturday, March 31.
For more information about Boomerang Festival 2018, check out their website. Full playing schedule of Boomerang at Bluesfest can be found here.
