WOMADelaide 2019

Setting the tone for the event, Christine & The Queens had audiences in the palm of her hand as the French pop-powerhouse amazed Friday night crowds. Flamenco pioneer, María Pagés’ radical interpretation of, Yo Carmen was touted as unmissable; and keeping people dancing across the site, Artonik’s The Colour Of Time, inspired with their reinterpretation of the traditional Holi celebration, bursting colourfully across the park. A surprise highlight for many, Soweto’s BCUC performed with the extraordinary power of a revivalist congregation – singing of hope and power of individual freedom powered by thumping afro-punk beat.

The 2019 line-up encapsulated the extraordinary diversity of the international arts and music community from every corner of the globe. From the world renowned The Original Gypsies closing the festival on Monday night, to the eclectic collaboration of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silkroad Ensemble, the arresting and thought-provoking conversations from the Planet Talks program, and the delightful discovery of The Leafies, from France’s Le Phun who became so enamoured with the City of Music they ‘migrated’ across Adelaide or several weeks following the festival.

"The Festival is such a strong symbol of hope in the world we are living today” - Angélique Kidjo

“Joyful and thought-provoking – WOMADelaide is so much more than a music festival. Womad embodies the spirit of diversity, inclusiveness and optimism" - The Age