Garrmalang Goods
The rich fibres of Garrmalang Festival were first woven in 2014 to showcase, inspire and celebrate First Nations arts and culture, blossoming over the years into the exciting, culture-rich event it is today.
By Tierney Seccull
Traditionally held in May, kicking off festival season at the beginning of the Dry, this year’s big event takes place this month. Garrmalang’s 2022 Creative Director, Dr Wendy Ludwig, says it’s a festival for all.
“Garrmalang Festival and Darwin Entertainment Centre continue to honour and work with the Larrakia people … committed to presenting a diverse range of First Nations artists, performers, musicians and traders that will provide something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate,” she writes.
“I look forward to sharing this fantastic weekend with you.”
So clear any plans for the last weekend of July, and prepare for three huge days celebrating the artistic richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, right in the heart of Larrakia Country.
2022 Program
Events are free unless otherwise noted, and registration may be required.
DAILY
Dalirra-G | In The Light
In The Light exhibits selected works from the Batchelor Institute Art Collection, and celebrates the role that institution-based collections play in bringing to light works significant in their own right and within an institution’s foundational narratives. The exhibition features rarely seen works from the Collection vault and those that elaborate on themes of light, life cycles and the passage of time.
WHEN FRI 29 JUL – SUN 31 JUL
OPENING FRI 29 JUL, 6PM
Mayima | Eat & Drink
Indulge in tasty treats throughout the Festival, with a range of local stallholders and fare on offer.
WHEN FRI 29 JUL – SUN 31 JUL
FRI 29 JUL
Luglug & Damara-Lidji | Official Gathering & Welcome
Join local Larrakia community members, Gary Lang’s NT Dance Company and Festival Creative Director Dr Wendy Ludwig to officially open the 2022 Garrmalang Festival with a traditional smoking ceremony.
WHEN FRI 29 JUL | 6.30PM
Frank Yamma With David Spry & Lena Kellie
Frank Yamma is one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous songwriters, with an ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries. Frank’s mighty songs, magical guitar playing and deeply evocative voice tell stories of Country, protection, heartache, travel and love. Supported by David Spry and Lena Kellie.
WHEN FRI 29 JUL | 8PM
AT THE PLAYHOUSE
COST $40 | $35 CONC
Rap City Party Nite
Get set for a sure-fire dance floor riot, as hip hop vanguard Tasman Keith, local multi-award-winning rising star J-MILLA and brother Yung Milla bring their deadly skill of storytelling to Garrmalang Festival. These three fullas are sure to amp the party and fill it with good times!
WHEN FRI 29 JUL | 8.30PM
AT STUDIO THEATRE
COST $25 | $20 CONC
SAT 30 JUL
Darranigi Gulwa | Our Songs
Kick back with a drink and something to eat, and enjoy a showcase some of Darwin’s finest First Nations musicians.
WHEN SAT 30 & SUN 31 JUL
Numanggwa Yili Rriyung | Blak Meeting Place (Marketplace)
Browse the rich diversity of artworks and products on offer from First Nations artists and businesses, and support ethical purchasing. All proceeds go back to First Nations people and their communities.
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 9AM-3.30PM
Darriba Narri Minanggurrgwa Yabarrag | Elders’ Morning Tea
Come together to celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders at the Elders’ Morning Tea. This special event brings the community together to honour those who have passed on their knowledge, paved the way and who continue to inspire us all. Tea, coffee and delicious treats provided.
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 9.30AM
AT BALCONY BAR
Numanggwa-Gum | Blak Talk – Law Trouble & Young People
It’s been five years since the White/Gooda Royal Commission into the Protection and Detention of Children in the NT published its report along with its 217 recommendations. And yet, five years on, the situation has not improved. Expert and experienced views are canvassed in this session, moderated by Matt Cunningham and followed by a Q&A session from the general public, to inform and assist the community in effectively addressing this important issue.
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 12PM
AT THE PLAYHOUSE
Numanggwa-Gum | Blak Talk – Truth, Treaty, Voice
In 2017, the Uluru Statement from the Heart was presented to the Australian people from First Nations Australians. The Statement asked Australians to walk together to build a better future. This panel discussion, moderated by Ursula Raymond, provides the broader Australian populace with an insight and update on First Nations initiatives and discussion on "where to next?" that will build towards a better future.
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 2PM
AT THE PLAYHOUSE
Stephen Pigram With Stiff Gins
Stephen Pigram takes command of The Playhouse stage, drawing on 40 years of composing and performing. He’s joined by Alan Pigram on guitar, mandolin and ukulele, and Shannon Birchall on double bass, the performance also featuring tracks from his latest album Solfish. Pigram’s supported by the Stiff Gins, who bring their stunning harmonies and deadly humour to the stage.
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 8PM
AT THE PLAYHOUSE
COST $40 | $35 CONC
Garrmalang Gwarnda Damanggwa | Garrmalang Festival Club
Put your hands up in the air, it’s time to party! Round up your favourite people and get set for non-stop night on the dance floor with some of the deadliest DJs, dancers and divas Darwin and the NT has to offer. Everyone welcome!
WHEN SAT 30 JUL | 9PM
AT STUDIO THEATRE
COST $15 | $10 CONC
SUN 31 JUL
On The Couch with Connie B
Inspired by the Artback NT series of the same name performed at the Centre the past two years, Constantina Bush takes her spot on the throne (couch) again for an unforgettable, fun and relaxed evening full of laughs.
WHEN SUN 31 JUL | 4PM
AT STUDIO THEATRE
COST $25 | $20 CONC
Guligi Numanggwa | Big Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular with Kevin Kropinyeri
Presented by Deadly Darwin, join Kevin Kropinyeri as he delivers his sharp, likeable, silly and measured comedy on the Big Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular stage to wrap the 2022 Garrmalang Festival. Everyone’s invited to share Kevin’s journey, culture and life, as he’s joined by local legends from the Deadly Darwin collective including Richard Fejo, Normie Grogan, Paul Seden, John Rawnsley, Richie Harrison, James Parfitt, Nathan Wright and more!
WHEN SUN 31 JUL | 6PM
AT STUDIO THEATRE
COST $35 | $30 CONC
Thumbnail, header & inset: Patricia Marfurra, 'Lotus in Bloom' (detail), 1994. Image courtesy the artist. Batchelor Institute Art Collection
