Renowned First Nations artist BARKAA to headline Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in July

Phoebe Blogg Published June 21, 2024 at 1.30pm (AWST)

culture

BARKAA behind the scenes filimg 'We Up' video shoot. (Image: Jazel Jozic)

Rap sensation BARKAA is no stranger to the limelight and next month will see the popular singer take centre stage; headlining Cairns Indigenous Art Fair's (CIAF) Saturday night concert alongside local artist Simone Stacey and six young voices from the city's No Shame in My Game music development program.

Set to take place on July 27 at Tanks Arts Centre, presented by CIAF in partnership with WOW Australia, the upcoming performance will be just one of the many engaging events during the fair's programming.

Audiences can expect powerful and unapologetic narratives from some of Australia's most talented young female performers across hip-hop, DJing, and vocals.

*BARKAA behind the scenes filimg 'We Up' video shoot. (Image: Jazel Jozic)*

Using the stage to amplify marginalised voices and promote positive change, BARKAA's music is a call to action for awareness and solidarity.

Simone Stacey is just as eager to be performing at CIAF in 2024.

Alongside six young voices from her No Shame in My Game music program, the talented singer drew on her experience as an artist and a youth coordinator, when creating her No Shame in My Game program.

Created to give young people a chance to find solace and healing through music, the program uses narrative therapy practices to support self-expression. It is particularly effective for young people who have been impacted by trauma, entrenched in the criminal justice system or have been diagnosed with a disability.

"No Shame in My Game is my way of giving back to the community and helping others. It is a safe and supportive space for people to process what they have been through, connect with their emotions and freely express themselves through song," she said.

Recognised as one of Queensland's biggest and more culturally immersive events, in its 14-year history, CIAF has provided career pathways and economic, social, and emotional well-being outcomes to thousands of Indigenous artists, designers, and performers.

As a significant national cultural calendar event, both BARKKA's and Simone Stacey's presence, performances and involvement with CIAF is sure to gain the attention of both press and patrons.

CIAF will celebrate its 15th anniversary season from Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 July 2024.

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