Free outdoor spectacular to open 2017 Perth International Arts Festival
Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak runs over three days from February 10
The production celebrates culture and biodiversity
Perth's iconic Kings Park will become a free outdoor theatre for the opening of the 2017 Perth International Arts Festival (PIAF), Premier Colin Barnett said today.
Launching the Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak, Mr Barnett said the production would feature projection and sound to immerse viewers in an enthralling celebration of Noongar culture and the South-West's stunning biodiversity.
The Premier said Kings Park, which welcomed millions of visitors each year, was a very significant cultural and ceremonial place for the Noongar people, who had been meeting there for thousands of years.
"Last year's PIAF opening HOME attracted some 40,000 people to the Perth foreshore, and I expect Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak will attract many thousands more over the three days next month," Mr Barnett said.
"The State Government, through Lotterywest, has supported PIAF for 25 years, with many other government agencies contributing through financial or in-kind support.
"Directing her second festival, Wendy Martin has continued her focus on local talent and WA's unique stories and it is fitting that two WA icons - Kings Park and PIAF - will come together as part of this year's opening."
Culture and the Arts Minister John Day said the creative team included well-known Noongar elder and artist Dr Richard Walley, who was named a 2015 State Living Treasure.
"Director Nigel Jamieson worked with the creators of last year's hit community show, HOME, including Zoe Atkinson, and this year is joined by others, including local media artist Sohan Hayes," Mr Day said.
"There will be free shuttle buses from Elizabeth Quay up to Kings Park where the performance will run on a 40-minute loop, giving people multiple chances to enjoy the experience.
"This year's festival is sure to be another great success, and I encourage everyone to make the most of the festival season in Perth and see as much as you can, and enjoy this truly unique time of the year.
"With the opening event being free and therefore accessible to the community, it will be a wonderful opportunity to experience PIAF as well as our beautiful Kings Park."
Fact File
Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak runs from Friday, February 10 to Sunday, February 12 between 8pm to 10.30pm
The creative team includes well-known Noongar elder and artist Dr Richard Walley, and Sohan Hayes, Kingsley Reeve, Ash Gibson Greig and Mark Howett will work alongside Nigel Jamieson and Zoe Atkinson
Free shuttle buses will run from Elizabeth Quay on a 40-minute loop
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Culture and the Arts Minister's office - 6552 6200
