Legislative Council: Thursday, March 21, 2024

Contents

Adelaide Fringe Festival

The Hon. M. EL DANNAWI (14:27): My question is to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Will the minister inform the council about some of the performances of First Nations acts during the Fringe Festival this year?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (14:28): I thank the honourable member for her question. Certainly, the Fringe Festival is an exciting time of the year for our city and state. I am advised that this was another successful festival, with more than a million tickets sold. Along with the many artists and performers from across the globe who descend upon South Australia every year, we saw an array of First Nations performers from across this country showcasing their skills and talents.

Our First Nations artists presented across a broad range of categories, which included film, digital, comedy, interactive storytelling, visual arts, design, cabaret, theatre and music. A few of the acts that certainly have been highlights included the Dupang Pangari Festival (the Coorong Spirit Festival), which I wasn't able to attend this year but have in a number of other years, led by senior Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri elder Moogy Sumner.

Presented by Electric Dreams was Star Dreaming: Full Dome Experience, following two children who explore the mysteries of the universe. First Nations Voices was back again this year, highlighting the multi-award-winning and international touring singer-songwriters Glenn Skuthorpe, Nancy Bates, Toni Janke and LENI.