A selection of Australia’s most exciting artists including iconic earth sound band OKA will perform in Alice Springs as part of the 2020 Parrtjima – A Festival in Light program.

Held in Alice Springs from 3 - 12 April, the fifth annual event will illuminate the Red Centre with a new program of immersive Aboriginal artworks, large-scale installations, guest talks and live music performances.

The festival will be held across two main precincts – Alice Springs Desert Park and Todd Mall.

Popular Indigenous band OKA, as well as a range of Australian talent and a 10 day program of music, talks, films and workshops.

Renowned curator and First Nation’s Adviser to the festival, Rhoda Roberts AO, returns for a third year, alongside creative consultants and producers AGB Events.

The program has been carefully crafted with the guidance of respected Arrernte people as part of the Parrtjima Festival Reference Group (PFRG).

The result is a show-stopping event that will bring to life the stories, sounds and rhythms of Central Australia – all held in Alice Springs, Mparntwe, home of Arrernte people.

 ‘Lifting Our Spirits’ is the 2020 theme, which highlights the festival’s focus on lifting the spirits from the work of artists, old and new, to the spirit of this year’s audience.

To find out more information about the 2020 Parrtjima – A Festival in Light program, visit www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/.

Quotes from Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) Director Engagement & Culture Paul Ah Chee Ngala:

“Parrtjima is an opportunity for all Australians to be immersed in a rich and ancient heritage and we encourage visitors to come and experience a festival that connects us all through story, art, landscape and light.

“We are immensely proud that Parrtjima continues to raise the profile of Aboriginal artists, immersing visitors in the art, culture and people of the Red Centre for a unique taste of Central Australia.”

Quotes from Parrtjima First Nations Creative Curator Rhoda Roberts AO:

“Parrtjima will continue to tell Aboriginal stories rooted in the past; a past when the Red Centre was almost entirely covered by a vast sea populated with marine life.

“It is this connection to water, kwatye, the six seasons of Country; and to the sky, stars and moon which will be explored throughout this year’s 10-night festival.

“The installations and light show capture the essence of diverse artistic practices, along with an incredible program that features music, film and talks, enhancing the many ways in which Aboriginal artists, performers and custodians celebrate and evolve, while staying true to the ancient philosophy of connection and Country.”

Media Contact: NTMEC Media and Communications Officer 0439 065 321