The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is just days away, ready to transform Woodend into a vibrant hub of music, ideas and creativity over the King’s Birthday long weekend.
Festival and artistic director Jacqueline Ogeil said anticipation was building as audiences prepared to welcome an exceptional lineup.
“We are excited to bring together extraordinary artists from across Australia for a truly immersive festival experience,” Ogeil said. “From jazz and chamber music to opera and big ideas, there’s something for everyone.”
The Festival opens with an electrifying set from the Chris Johnstone/Mat Jodrell Quartet, setting the tone for a culture filled long weekend. Headline acts include pianist Tamara-Anna Cislowska in collaboration with composer Elena Kats-Chernin, the powerful Monteverdi Vespers of 1610 presented by Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia conducted by John O’Donnell, and internationally acclaimed accordion virtuoso James Crabb.
Audiences can also look forward to performances by Seraphim Trio, Affinity Quartet, and Coady Green, alongside a rich Words and Ideas program featuring Hugh Mackay, Alan Finkel, Anna Goldsworthy and David Marr.
Families are well catered for too, with highlights including Inventi Ensemble’s 1001 Nights and a free session with author and poet Max Beneba Clarke.
“With more than 90 artists set to appear in venues throughout Woodend, from the soaring acoustics of St Ambrose Church to the intimacy of St Ambrose Hall next door, WWAF gives audiences the rare chance to experience exceptional talent up close,” said Ogeil.
With several events already sold out and others nearing capacity, audiences are encouraged to book now to avoid missing out.
“We’re thrilled with the response so far with strong bookings from not only the local area and Melbourne, but from interstate as well,” Ogeil added. “If there’s something you’d love to see, don’t wait, make sure you book your tickets today.”
WWAF will take place from June 5-8. Tickets can be purchased online at woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au