Join the Party at Araluen

Araluen Arts Centre, the beating heart of the Araluen Cultural Precinct on Arrernte Country, is turning 40 in 2024!

By Betty Sweetlove

Back in the late-70s, the community of Central Australia successfully campaigned for a dedicated arts venue to be built in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. Opening in 1984, Araluen Arts Centre has been a state-of-the-art hub for performance, exhibitions and awards ceremonies ever since.

With the official 2024 program still under wraps, Director Felicity Green gives some sneak previews into the exciting year ahead for Centralian audiences.

“It’s our 40th anniversary, so we’re going to try and do some special things,” she says.

“We’ve got an extraordinary line up next year, lots of contemporary dance ... The Flying Fruit Fly Circus, three film festivals – The Oceans Film Festival, Flickerfest and Banff Film Festival – and some great music coming including Hoodoo Gurus, Ella Hooper and Vika and Linda Bull.”

As well as enjoying a stunning line up, arts lovers can also get involved in Araluen by becoming a member. Membership is just $50 for the year and includes a host of cheeky discounts on tickets, drinks and retail.

The perfect gift that keeps on giving this holiday season, members can also opt-in to join the Friends of Araluen. A dedicated group of fundraisers and organisers, The Friends acquire artworks and support the vibrant arts community of Central Australia.

“Araluen was built by the people, in many ways, for the people. The community agitated to have it built 40 years ago, and it’s a way of making sure that we keep on the right track, being a part of the Friends of Araluen,” says Green.

Gift a membership this holiday season and raise a glass to 40 years of artistic excellence in the Centre. We can’t wait to celebrate Araluen Arts Centre in 2024!

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

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