The online ticket window is now open for the Woodend Winter Arts Festival, with some concerts already selling fast – including now London-based Australian pianist Piers Lane performing Chopin in one concert only.
But the festival opens with fireworks and dancing – albeit in different locations – and will close with a Finale Dinner at the Vic Hotel, bookending a weekend with more than 30 events in between.
Festival fun begins from 5pm at Buffalo Stadium with food trucks and stalls – many of them thanks to local community groups and organisations before the official opening with a performance by the return of the incredibly athletic Japanese Drummers Wadaiko Rindo. Fireworks kick off at 6.30pm and as always, this event is free.
The first concert of the festival features the Firebird Trio – but before Australian tango dancers Jarny Choi and Teresa Lavers show how it’s done, they’ll aim to impart the spirit and technique of the tango (it’s all about connection and rhythm)! No previous experience necessary – just bring your best smooth-soled dancing shoes for the 7pm lesson, and then prepared to be impressed in the 8.15pm concert !nspiration Tango. The tango class is free for concert ticket holders.
And finally Una fiesta Italiana – featuring the Melba Trust Artists upstairs at the Vic Hotel where you can join festival organisers and artists to celebrate another fabulous Festival weekend with a little spot of opera along with Italian styled food – and wines by Mount Towrong Winery. With food, wine, music and song on offer, this event will sell out so book early to avoid disappointment.
The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is held over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend – June 7-10, with free fireworks on opening night at Buffalo Stadium in Woodend. Look for brochures in local outlets across the Macedon Ranges. Full details of the festival program (including these events) and ticket purchases are available at www.woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
