First Nations dancers and musical performers from across the continent - and the Torres Strait - will gather in Mparntwe / Alice Springs this weekend for a free, family-friendly celebration of First Nations culture.
An engaging line-up of First Nations dancers, musicians, songmen and cultural practitioners will come together for the Apmerenge-ntyele Festival, presented by Children's Ground in partnership with Alice Springs Town Council and Lhere Artepe, bringing traditional and contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture to children, families and community.
The program spans sea Country to desert country, pairing internationally touring dance troupes and award-winning songmen with national and emerging contemporary performers.
They all showcase the power of culture and language. With a special celebration of the strength of young people, the festival includes the Alice Kings, a crew of Alice Springs Hip Hop Artists many still at primary school, and Mulga Bore Hard Rock, a glam rock band that has opened for international superstars KISS.
Children's Ground chairs, Mr Tilmouth and Evelyn Schaber, said the festival is about young people, culture and the vision of Elders. It is about self-determination for First Nations children and families.
"Apmerenge-ntyele is about our culture, language and future. It is about recognising the power and strength of our people, from every Nation, and the songlines and ceremony that continue today, and celebrating this with all Australians," Mr Tilmouth and Ms Schaber said in a joint statement.
"We want our children and families having every opportunity to be proud and stand strong in who they are, on our Country.
"When we bring culture, community and self-determination together like this, we're building the future we want for the next generation."
Felicity Hayes, Mparntwe Traditional Owner and co-director for Ampe-kenhe Ahelhe (Children's Ground Central Australia) invites people to share in this Festival.
"Come to our country. Bring your song, your dance, your stories and your families. Come and sit together, share Culture and be with one another," she said.
The program combines national and local performers with Fejo and the Cruizers, Cassi Williams and Kutcha Edwards taking centre stage.
Children's Ground chief executive officer, Jane Vadiveloo is eager to welcome guests to the festival, further encouraging everyone that it is a celebration of both culture and community.
"We invite everyone to come, gather, celebrate, dance and sing. This is a celebration of culture and language, and First Peoples and Nations across Australia," she said.
"It is about self-determination and recognising the living knowledge, practice and learning that continues in every community every day.
"It is about showcasing the talent, of young people, the importance of Elders and the strength of community. We are honoured to feature outstanding national artists alongside so many local artists this year."
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