Woodend Winter Arts Festival
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Music, ideas and creativity
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…
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World-class guitar duo in Woodend
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class music in Woodend! Internationally-acclaimed Australian guitarists Ziggy and Miles Johnston are returning home to Australia and will perform a special concert that promises virtuosic playing, warmth and captivating artistry. Now based in New York, the Johnston brothers have been hailed for their “deeply considered musicianship, immaculate care…
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Building thriving communities
Community Bank Gisborne and District is celebrating its contribution to building thriving communities, with $518,718 returned to the southern Macedon Ranges, funding 46 projects over the year to June 30, 2025. Chair of Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd, the social enterprise behind the bank, Mal Carter said they were proud to be part of the…
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Woodend Winter Arts Festival kicks off this weekend
The stage is set as Woodend prepares to come alive with music, conversation and more as the Woodend Winter Arts Festival returns this coming weekend (June 6–9). Tickets are selling fast and at pre-pandemic levels. Celebrating its 20th festival in 2025, the event promises a rich and diverse program that caters to all tastes—from a…
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Dive into words and ideas
The 20th edition of the Woodend Winter Arts Festival is set to deliver one of its most engaging Words and Ideas programs to date. This year’s lineup features a diverse array of topics and speakers. Delve into the intricate designs of William Morris, learn about the transformative power of music, explore the enduring legacy of…
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A symphony of winter delights
There will be melodies to melt the winter chill at the 20th Woodend Winter Arts Festival. From festival exclusives to international acts, homegrown talent to a special family friendly performance, there truly is something for everyone at this year’s event. Opening night sets the tone for a big weekend as Italy meets Ireland in a…
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Stellar lineup for 20th festival
The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is celebrating its 20th festival this year as it delivers another feast of music, film, words and ideas over the King’s Birthday long weekend – June 6 to 9. The music program features international guests Moroccan vocalist Lamiae Naki and her ensemble Seffarine along with Davide Monti (violin) and Maria…
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Woodend arts festival turns 20
An interview with Woodend Winter Arts Festival founder and artistic director Jacqueline Ogeil. Midland Express: Jacky, you are celebrating 20 festivals this year, can you tell us what it means to reach this milestone? Amazement. It has gone so quickly. But also feels longer because the township has changed so much, as has society, and…
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A cappella carols in Woodend
The Woodend Winter Arts Festival will be bringing the Christmas cheer to Woodend this December, as they deliver another incredible musical performance. This event rounds out another highly successful year for WWAF, which has included multiple events outside of their traditional June long weekend program. You are invited to join them as outstanding chamber choir…
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The Italian Devil returns to Woodend
Renowned Italian violinist Davide Monti, who’s virtuoso skills were paid tribute to in the Tall Poppies award-winning recording, The Italian Devil, is set to captivate audiences with his extraordinary talent, as he returns to Woodend for one incredible performance on Saturday November 23. Davide Monti, a master of baroque violin, will be joined by the…
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Joseph Tawadros live in Woodend
Experience the musical brilliance of Joseph Tawadros in Woodend this September long weekend. Prepare to be enchanted as this world-renowned oud virtuoso fills the intimate setting of St Ambrose Church with his mesmerising music on Saturday, September 28, from 1pm to 2pm. Renowned for his masterful blending of Arabic, jazz, and classical influences, Tawadros has…
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Festival revival
Back to pre-pandemic levels, there were record crowds and sold out concerts at this year’s Woodend Winter Arts Festival. Held over four days on the King’s Birthday long weekend (including school incursions), the festival wowed audiences with a program that included four outstanding works by baroque composers Alessandro Marcello and Antonio Vivaldi, and early classical…