2020 Performers
Adelaide International Folk Dancers
Adelaide International Folk Dancers
Adelaide International Folk Dancers was formed in 1974 and members gather on a weekly basis to enjoy dancing to exotic music, both live and recorded, from a wide variety of countries. Most of the dances are done in lines and circles, so no partner is required. The most popular dance styles are from the Balkan region where unusual time signatures seldom found in north western Europe are common.
Adelaide Scottish Fiddle Club
Performing a varied program of contemporary and traditional music, the Adelaide Scottish Fiddle Club is excited to be launching their long-awaited debut CD. Join this vibrant community group for toe-tapping jigs and reels, and haunting slow airs taking you on a journey from Scotland and Ireland to Nova Scotia, Scandinavia and even Australia! A stage full of fiddles joined by cellos, guitar, double bass, piano and harp is surely a sight and sound to behold!Afro Moses (GHA/AUS)
Afro Moses (GHA/AUS)
Afro Moses is an award-winning artist from Ghana, West Africa. His illustrious career features such accomplishments as being voted twice as Ghana’s Best International Music Ambassador and sharing the stage with highly renowned artists such as Ziggy Marley and Youssou N’Dour. Afro Moses delivers a high-energy show containing positive messages of unity and individual beauty. His music spans countless styles including African, reggae, funk and pop. He'll have you jumping and wanting more.Aidan Connolly (IRE)
Aidan Connolly (IRE)
Aidan Connolly is a master young fiddle player from Dublin and is considered one of the leading Irish musicians of his generation. His debut album, 'Be Off', was released in 2016 to critical acclaim and is considered one of the best fiddle albums of recent years. He has toured extensively in the USA and Japan and has performed in Sweden, France, Spain, the UK and Australia. Aidan is celebrated for his unique style of playing.Alan Downes (NZL)
Alan Downes (NZL)
Performing only his own original work, Alan Downes sings lyrical ballads about the good times we need to remember and how the bad times can give you the best yarns. They are (mostly) true stories of people and places told with careful observation, a good dollop of humour and a little nostalgia.Alana Wilkinson
Alana Wilkinson
Described as equal parts vulnerable folk singer and vitriolic poet, the shining beam of sunlight that is Alana Wilkinson has turned heads recently with stellar performances across major festivals such as Blue Mountains, Queenscliff, Woodford and Nannup. Combining delicate melodies with disarmingly insightful vignettes about the human condition, Wilkinson is a smiling assassin who leaves audiences feeling like they’re sitting in her living room, chatting about life over a steaming cuppa.
Alaska String Band (USA)
The Alaska String Band brings the best of Americana. Winners of the Fame Awards – Bluegrass Band of the Year, this group is polished, with riveting harmonies that are totally off the charts. Groove along while this captivating four-member family band offers up American roots favourites … swing, jazz, rock, original, pop, folk and Bluegrass.All Strings Attached
All Strings Attached
Blending elements of high energy Celtic punk, unpredictable gypsy strings, pirate shanty folk rock and a circus sideshow extravaganza, the genres used to describe All Strings Attached are endless. With soaring Eastern-European inspired violin melodies fused with hip-shaking rhythms, driving guitar riffs and layered vocals, they may be hard to describe but they are sure to leave you satisfied.Amazing Drumming Monkeys
Amazing Drumming Monkeys
Australia’s favourite family puppet show is coming back to the NFF with a new character – “Kiiko” and her funky little drum kit! The Amazing Drumming Monkeys have been wowing audiences around Australia and overseas for the past 16 years with a clever combination of puppetry, live music comedy and heartwarming themes resulting in a funny and engaging show suitable for the whole family."*****Our favourite concert" (Rolling Music – Shanghai China)
Australian Colonial & Folk Dancers
Australian Colonial & Folk Dancers
The Australian Colonial & Folk Dancers is a highly experienced and creative dance group. The group comprises qualified dance teachers, experienced callers and award-winning dance writers, as well as enthusiastic and dedicated dancers. They perform choreographed routines based on traditional and contemporary folk dances. Dances are often performed with unusual numbers or formations and may involve a perfect imbalance, where each man has two partners, allowing for optimal creativity.Australian Morris Ring
Australian Morris Ring
The Australian Morris Ring brings together Australia's premier Morris dance groups to give you massed street displays of many colourful teams and intricate jig displays by talented individuals – plus much more!
Avara
Avara presents the passion, intricacy and excitement of music sourced from the Alevi and Turkish folk traditions. Avara is Paul Koerbin (Sirocco, The Renaissance Players), Philip Griffin (The Balkanics), Phil Carroll (Yalla! ) and Andy Busuttil (The Bridge Project). Avara blends the musical backgrounds of each of its players into a dance and audio performance experience that will leave the audience enthralled and energised.
Barkers Vale Brothers, The
"Combining the ancient traditional sounds of bluegrass and old-time music with laconic, provocative songwriting and dry banter, these two brothers from northern NSW are slowly but surely developing a cult following on the Australian folk festival circuit.Sharing a member with their sister act The Pitts Family Circus means Gareth and Vaughan will put on a show that you won’t forget.
Caution: Some tunes may contain partial nudity, inverted banjo playing and pyrotechnics."
Barleyshakes, The
Barleyshakes, The
That the Barleyshakes manage to be at the forefront of traditional Irish music in Australia while breathing it new life is remarkable. Intense energy, beautiful harmony, and irresistible dance rhythms are what make them tick. Members contributed to the Lord of the Rings award-winning soundtrack; they also won the Queensland Music Award for world music.Barren Spinsters, The
Barren Spinsters, The
They look like a two-piece, sound like a five-piece, and move like a hair piece. Frontman Brendon Houlahan plays guitar with his hands, bass with his feet, and sings with his face. Matt Tennant belts the drums really hard, sings a little bit, and wears really dumb shirts while doing it. Together, The Barren Spinsters deliver 70s blues rock with a modern thrashy twist. Much the same way that Wolfmother doesn’t.Belswagger Morris Dancers
Belswagger Morris Dancers
Belswagger Morris is Brisbane's number one traditional English Cotswold Morris dancing team. Sticks clashing, hankies waving, bells ringing: Belswagger brings the timeless Morris tradition to all and sundry.
Blackberry Jam
Blackberry Jam have performed for the delight of people all ages for the past 25 years! Be ready for an abundance of energy, expertise and fun as they take to the stage at this year's NFF. On stage, at a dance, or at the KidzFest, you’ll be tapping your toes to some of Australia’s finest bush music.Bruce Cameron’s Broadcasters’ Forum
Bruce Cameron’s Broadcasters’ Forum
The Broadcasters' Forum is an opportunity for radio presenters, artists and listeners to get together to talk about the folk music we hear on radio. The Broadcasters' Forum is facilitated by Bruce Cameron, producer and presenter of 'Come All Ye' on 2MCE-FM community radio since 1976.
Bruce Watson
Not just another Singer/songwriter! Bruce’s music is joyful, thought provoking, with totally engaging original songs from one of Australia's folk icons. Bruce is a master storyteller in song. His music reflects life in all its beautiful, funny, tragic and messy glory, often with a twist and a quirky sense of humour. “An Australian folk hero!” (The Boite). “The best songwriter I have seen in a long time.” (Eric Bogle)Bush Gothic
Bush Gothic
Performing at some of the world's most happening festivals including Mona Foma, Festival # 6 (Wales) and R.I.F.F (India), Bush Gothic have developed a cult following amongst those who like their pop intelligent and their folk dark. Using tales from Australian history as their source material, their musical influences range from minimalist electro to experimental breakbeat. Best Music Weekly Award – Adelaide Fringe. BBC Music Magazine – 5 STARS.Bush Music Club Youth Bush Band
Bush Music Club Youth Bush Band
In 2020 the Bush Music Club (BMC) celebrates the centenary of the birth of one of its founders, folklorist John Meredith AM, whose extensive collections are in the National Library. Since 1954 the BMC has actively promoted Australian folk traditions through collecting and publishing all forms of folklore. The oldest folk club in Australia, BMC holds regular dance and music workshops, bush dances, concerts and colonial balls and offers a Saplings program for young musicians.Cameron Corner Bush Band
Cameron Corner Bush Band
The musicians of the Cameron Corner Bush Band play dance music for Australian bush and colonial dances. Together with callers from the Melbourne Colonial Dancers they will present an evening program of dances to welcome you to the National Folk Festival 2020.Chaika
Chaika
Melding the earthiness of folk with the dexterity of jazz and craft of classical, Chaika’s vast influences create superb genre-blending music that transcends labels. Described as “spine-tingling” (Rhythms) and “extraordinary” (Fine Music FM), Chaika’s musicians have worked with an impressive roster including Nicky Bomba, Monsieur Camembert and London’s Bulgarian Choir. The Sydney-based sextet surprise, thrill and move the unsuspecting listener, from environs of folk festivals to the world-class Sydney City Recital Hall.Chloe and Jason Roweth with Matt Nightingale
Chloe and Jason Roweth with Matt Nightingale
Drawing their inspiration from the warmth of old-style bush entertainment and folklore, the Roweths work with vibrant arrangements of new and old traditional Australian ballads and work songs, early country music, original music, poetry, yarns, and dance tunes, weaving together and carrying forward diverse threads of the Australian tradition. Integral to the sound is the formidable and expressive double bass of Matt Nightingale.Chris Duncan, Catherine Strutt, Jennifer Strutt
Chris Duncan, Catherine Strutt, Jennifer Strutt
Dancers' favourites, Chris Duncan, Catherine Strutt and Jennifer Strutt will have you up on the dance floor with their infectious and rhythmic dance music. Celebrating 30 years of playing dance music, these expert musicians will share the stage with equally brilliant dance instructors Robert Davidson and Michael Darby ensuring dancers, old and new, a brilliant night of Scottish music and dance!CLOUDSTREET
CLOUDSTREET
Bringing fresh life to the best of the tradition, Nicole Murray, John Thompson and Emma Nixon have carved themselves a niche internationally as outstanding performers of acoustic folk music. They deliver a powerful and moving musical experience based on entrancing musicality stunning use of vocal harmony and above all a compelling sense of fun. cloudstreet will sing and play their way into your hearts.Colum Sands (IRE)
Colum Sands (IRE)
Colum Sands is a universal storyteller who draws on a long Irish tradition of poetic musicality to weave songs for the world. With experience of countless performances and studio and broadcast work with young musicians and veterans like Joan Baez and Pete Seeger, Sands uses humour and sharp observation to celebrate what unites rather than what separates. His new album 'Song Bridge' includes songs written for his extensive environmental campaigning over the past two years.
Coral Eden & the Melbourne Colonial Dancers
The Melbourne Colonial Dancers formed in 1974 to preserve collected Australian heritage dances and dance tunes since European settlement. They have performed at many festivals; run bush dances, dance workshops, dance displays, and birthday dances; and performed in aged care facilities. Coral has been running beginner dance classes since 1993 and is committed to helping people to learn and enjoy dancing.Curtis Eller’s American Circus (USA)
Curtis Eller’s American Circus (USA)
Curtis Eller is a banjo player, songwriter and rock & roll singer. Eller is a show business veteran who started his career at the age of seven as a juggler and acrobat. The American Circus has developed a devoted international following based on dynamic stage performances that incorporate a dreamlike view of American history and silent film style, physical comedy. The iconoclastic troubadour has spent a decade relentlessly touring the clubs, theatres and festivals of North America and Europe. The Band will be touring Australia in support of their latest, critically acclaimed album “A Poison Melody”.Deline Briscoe
Deline Briscoe
Deline Briscoe’s live vocal delivery has the ability to change the weather, interweaving Wungabadi (Yalanji song) with folk/jazz/roots/soul infusion. She has toured with some of Australia's best vocalists like Archie Roach, Lou Bennett, Paul Kelly, Shane Howard, Emma Donovan, and Tiddas and collaborated with composers Iain Grandage and Andrea Keller. Deline has also toured worldwide with ensembles Black Arm Band (2008–2016) and Mission Songs Project (2017–2019) and is currently touring with her 2018 album 'Wawu'. The trio includes Airileke (drums) and Stephen Maxwell (keys/bass).Dividing Range Dancers
Dividing Range Dancers
The Dividing Range Dancers are a group of dancers from the NSW and the ACT who share a common interest in traditional and lively forms of social dance. Coming from a range of dance backgrounds, they enjoy a repertoire of couple dances, set dances and quadrilles from the past 200 years, particularly those of relevance to Australia.Elephant Sessions (SCOT)
Elephant Sessions (SCOT)
Creating a progressive blend of intricate tunes engulfing guitars with a bass and drum-heavy backline, Elephant Session' music combines the very best of trad funk and electronica resulting in a new and exciting sound. Gigging extensively around the UK they swiftly built a fan base and went on to release their debut album 'The Elusive Highland Beauty' in 2014 to critical acclaim.Emily Crocker
Emily Crocker
Emily Crocker writes and performs poetry. You might have seen her at BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT!, Noted Festival, Sydney Fringe, Sydney Writers Festival, Word in Hand, or Wollongong Writers Festival. Her debut chapbook Girls and Buoyant was published by Subbed In in 2017. She is formerly of the team that brings you Enough Said Poetry Slam in Wollongong, where she became known for writing audience-inspired poems on the spot.Fay Hield (UK)
Fay Hield (UK)
Fay Hield’s choice of English folk material and the delivery of it, reflect a rare sensitivity and appreciation of the tradition whilst remaining naturalistic and highly distinctive.She has released three solo albums on Topic Records and been nominated for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Fay is also a founding member of the English folk super-group The Full English. "Unadorned and quite exquisite" * * * * – Uncut Magazine
Fiddle Chicks, The
Fiddle Chicks, The
The Fiddle Chicks are Dee Trewartha (The Cow Patsys) and Emma Luker (Eric Bogle Band), who perform using only fiddles, voices and stomp boxes to create their unique sound and original tunes and songs. After six albums and nearly twenty years on the music scene they still have a passion for performing. Let them take you on a musical voyage through daily life and love, with a few laughs thrown in!Flamenco Centre Canberra
Flamenco Centre Canberra
Tomás Dietz has been teaching pure Flamenco dance in Canberra for nearly 20 years. Most of his students start with no dance experience, but their diligence in this austere discipline brings them to appreciate the depth of this stunning expression of the human condition. His students will share their achievements in the intimate, up close and intense 'tablao' style show.Freewheeler, The
Freewheeler, The
It's all the about the flow. The simple magic of The Freewheeler is to set the music loose, the tunes flying and the rhythm humming. The trio brings together Ado Barker (fiddle), Dougal Adams (flute) and Ben Stephenson (guitar), musicians who have been at the heart of Irish trad in Australia for a generation. This sound taps the music at its core, lifting and rolling with a rare freedom – not to be missed!Gabrielle Journey Jones
Gabrielle Journey Jones
Gabrielle Journey Jones is a poet and percussionist born on sovereign Gadigal Land Sydney. She shares Maori and African bloodlines and lives on Yuin Country Far South Coast NSW with her family. Gabrielle has read her poetry on open mics and as a featured performer at local national and international events for over 20 years. Her collection, Spoken Medicine ,was published by Ginninderra Press in 2017. Gabrielle is wholeheartedly inspired by and contributes to her diverse creative communities.
Georgia State Line
Honest, and refreshingly self-assured, Georgia State Line’s unique brand of country-infused melancholy yields music that’s equal parts heartsick and hopeful. Combining some of Melbourne's best – Tom Brooks, Patrick Wilson and Laura Baxter – and fronted by lauded songwriter Georgia Delves, the band melds both vintage and contemporary sounds to craft songs steeped in Tennessee sunsets. Delves’ voice is effortlessly colourful and textural with a depth and grace to rival even the most revered of talents.Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse – Koorlangka
Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse – Koorlangka
Koorlangka (Children), a performance of rare Noongar language with strings has crystallised a project which connects one of the world’s oldest languages with our youngest generations. Koorlangka is a suite of children's songs and lullabies in Noongar language. Multi-award-winning duo Singer/songwriter and Balladong (Noongar) daughter, Gina Williams, and guitarist Guy Ghouse have created a suite of songs which incorporate both their current catalogue and some new pieces each highlighting the breathtaking beauty of Noongar language.Good Girl Song Project, The
Good Girl Song Project, The
The Good Girl Song Project anchors itself in great storytelling and original songwriting and features Penny Larkins, Penelope Swales, Helen Begley and Jamie Molloy. They present their stunning folk song cycles “Settlement” and "Voyage" which follow the experiences of new female immigrants to colonial Australia of the 1830s. The struggles and triumphs of new immigrants in an old world are brought to life with finely wrought folk arrangements and tightly scripted storiesGregory North
Gregory North
With lots of hats and voices, he’s a wonder to behold, a writer and performer – three-times champion, we’re told. Bush poetry performance makes him come alive, you see; it’s dinkum Aussie culture that will fill you full of glee. So come along, experience his characters in rhyme, come climb the slime and grime, no crime, it’s prime – a time sublime!Hat Fitz and Cara
Hat Fitz and Cara
High-energy duo Hat Fitz and Cara are among Australia’s most talented roots music artists. The husband and wife team have clocked up 10 years of worldwide touring festival performances and album releases from their home base in the hinterland of South East Queensland's Sunshine Coast. They are showing no signs of slowing down, bringing their own mix of Blues and Gospel-infused roots. Their festival touring circuit takes in Australia, the UK and North America.
Hello Tut Tut
Hello Tut Tut takes its audience on a high energy, stimulating musical safari shaped by the aesthetics of cultures from around the world. With members of Australian, Hungarian, Jewish, Polish, Czech and Swiss descent, the seven-piece draws upon sounds of klezmer, gypsy, Balkan and Latin musical traditions to craft original music that is contemporary, entertaining and highly danceable.Heritage Ensemble, The
Heritage Ensemble, The
The Heritage Ensemble is an assembly of many fine experienced dance musicians as well as a training ground for younger musicians. Under musical director, David Johnson, and with callers, Heather Clarke, Don Richmond and Cath Richmond, the Heritage Ensemble delivers a ball program that extends from colonial times through bush dancing classics to modem innovations; all danced to arranged published works, collected treasures and new tunes.Hillbilly Goats
Hillbilly Goats
Festival faves and Bluegrass Golden Guitar finalists, The Hillbilly Goats are a “show” featuring stories and song combined with hard fiddle, fast harmonica, clogging bones and big harmonies… Drawing influence from trad folk tunes, their passion lies in the history and they love to seek out stories of songs almost forgotten and bring them back to life with boundless energy. Kicke yer shows off! These Goats are FUN and not to be missed!HIMMERLAND (DNK)
HIMMERLAND (DNK)
Himmerland is a group of five travelling musicians, each carrying very different life stories and traditions in their bags. They come from different regions of Denmark, Sweden and Ghana in West Africa.Honey Dewdrops, The (USA)
Honey Dewdrops, The (USA)
Americana duo The Honey Dewdrops – Laura Wortman and Kagey Parrish – have long felt the push-and-pull between their original roots in the Appalachian mountains and their current home in urban Baltimore. You’ll hear it in their harmony-soaked songs and the mastery of their instruments’ acoustic tones, but also in their songwriting, which reflects the hard realities of today.Jim & Ingrid Rehle-Williams
Jim & Ingrid Rehle-Williams
Jim and Ingrid have been sharing their knowledge of Bavarian dancing for nearly 20 years. Jim lived in Munich for nine years and Ingrid was born and first started dancing in a small town near the alps in Bavaria. They make dancing accessible to all levels of dancers with their clear and fun instruction. They are accompanied by some fine musicians making for an enjoyable dance experience.John Peel
John Peel
John Peel is an award winning performer of Australian bush poetry. John’s repertoire covers a broad range, from fencing duels to fishing, Elvis and many subjects in between. From traditional bush ballads to his own humorous originals, you are bound to be entertained.Jon Boden (UK)
Jon Boden (UK)
Jon Boden, best known as the lead singer of the progressive folk juggernaut Bellowhead, launched his solo career in 2016. Presenting self-penned songs from the albums 'Painted Lady' and 'Songs From The Floodplain' and his latest album 'Afterglow', material from Bellowhead, Spiers & Boden and his 'A Folk Song A Day' project, his critically acclaimed and enthusiastically received solo shows have confirmed him as one of the foremost names in English folk music.
JuggleHub
JuggleHub are a community focused Juggling Club based in Canberra. Running weekly meet ups every Wednesday since mid 2018, JuggleHub has rapidly become Canberra's number one place for all things juggling! JuggleHub organises the majority of International Juggling Combat competitions (Fight Night) in Australia.Keith McKenry
Keith McKenry
A leading member of Australia's small clan of folklorists, Keith doubles as a slightly crazy performance poet, the only person to have recited 'The Spirit of the People' in the Australian High Court, 'A Study in Linguistics' in the Sydney Opera House, and 'McArthur's Fart at the United Nations in New York. His acclaimed solo tour de force, 'Yet More Lies that Made Australia' is a hilarious thought-provoking entertainment simply not to be missed.Keith Wood and Pastrami on Ryebuck
Keith Wood and Pastrami on Ryebuck
Pastrami on Ryebuck is the Contra version of Ryebuck Bush Band and has been playing for many years at Contra sessions, bush dances, and English Country dances around the country. Keith Wood is a prize-winning dance composer and calls Contra, English, and his own dances in Sydney. Together they'll get you up and dancing!Kutcha Edwards
Kutcha Edwards
Launching his new album ‘Circling Time’, Kutcha Edwards explores new ways of celebrating both his artistry and his Aboriginal ancestry. Kutcha’s beautiful voice and poignant songwriting with backing from his tightly knit three-piece band is a concert that actively engages the audience with songs and stories highlighting both modern issues and ancient lore. Kutcha maintains his life’s work as a traditional Songman in this modern era. His Songline continues its evolution.Little Quirks
Little Quirks
Sisters Abbey and Mia Toole joined their cousin Jaymi Toole in 2015 to form Little Quirks, a band in which they simply wanted to “write and play music that was fun to sing”. From busking at farmers' markets, the band quickly leap frogged onto stages supporting the likes of Tim Rogers, All Our Exes Live in Texas, Alex the Astronaut, Jack River, Busby Marou, and Xavier Rudd.Littmus Steampunk Band
Littmus Steampunk Band
Littmus Steampunk Band is a ragtag bunch of time travelers from the great Victorian Age of Exploration and Invention spreading the word about the joys of steam-powered machines made of wood, brass and clockwork gears. A mix of acoustic folk, pop, cabaret and tunes from the Age of Airships are all delivered by adventurers impeccably dressed in the grand style of 19th century London.Liz Frencham Trio
Liz Frencham Trio
2018 Troubadour Award Winner and perennial festival presence Liz Frencham is stepping back into centre stage supported by virtuoso multi-instrumentalists Pete Fidler and Josh Bennett. She has a BRAND new album and a swag of new songs along with favourites from her 'Jigzag', 'Jimmy The Fish' and duet album days. Come and be warmed by that cheeky grin and cradled by her luminous, generous presence.Lloyd Spiegel
Lloyd Spiegel
Lloyd Spiegel is a trailblazer at the forefront of modern blues and one of Australia’s most recognised guitarists recently being named in Australian Guitar Magazine’s list of the top 50 Australian guitarists of all time. His show blends jaw-dropping guitar expertise with a commanding voice powerful songwriting and storytelling to deliver a concert experience launching him onto theatres and festivals around the globe.
Lucy Wise & Stephen Taberner
Lucy Wise and Stephen Taberner are both purveyors and afficionados of songs that mean something to them. Improbably, they are also capable of rendering them with the kind of perfect musical humanity that gives rise, in them and others, to what could be called a near life experience. They explore a bunch of highly necessary conversations: between the bass and the uke, between the resonance and the groove, between grand stupidity and grace.Maggie Carty Band, The
Maggie Carty Band, The
Maggie Carty, banjo player and singer from the West of Ireland moved to Australia in 2017 and has been performing festivals around the region, including Port Fairy Folk Festival, National, Ceol Aneas, New Zealand, National Celtic Festival, Illawarra Folk Festival and venues across Vic and NSW. Now Melbourne based she has joined forces with Máirtín Staunton (flute/vocals), Ado Barker (fiddle), Gerry McKeague (guitar/vocals) and Thomas Botting (double bass) to form the Maggie Carty band. The group performs a mix of traditional Irish tunes and folk songs with three-part harmonies and jazz undertones. On stage the group has a natural ease and their enjoyment and sense of fun is palpable and infectious!Māmā Mihirangi & the Māreikura (NZ)
Māmā Mihirangi & the Māreikura (NZ)
“A powerful show of stunning contemporary Māori music, dance, instruments, language, stories and costumes. The queen of live loops is back in force and this new show is her best yet”. Songlines Magazine UK, 2019. This is a fierce all-female Māori world-roots production showcasing the virtues of Indigenous feminine power and inspiring cultural identity. With ancient chants, intricate harmonies, traditional and contemporary instruments featuring women’s dance, haka, weaponry and martial arts the group delivers an inclusive, informative and inspiring cultural performance.Mammals, The (USA)
Mammals, The (USA)
The Mammals are an Americana/folk/rock band fronted by husband-and-wife songwriting duo, Mike Merenda and Ruth Ungar, the daughter of fiddle legend, Jay Ungar. The Mammals joke that they’re “too folk for the rock show” and “too rock for the folk show”, but in reality they hit the critical emotional and sonic touchstones of both. Their performances are propelled by just the right amount of guitar grit, soothing harmony, barn-burning fiddle, retro grooves, and storytelling savvy.
Margaret & Bill Winnett
Margaret & Bill Winnett have danced together for well over fifty years, travelling to Ireland on twenty-four occasions to collect and research the traditional Irish dances they teach during their workshops. They have the ability to teach dancing in a fun way yet have everyone dancing to an exacting standard and enjoying the experience.Mark Moldre
Mark Moldre
Mark Moldre's new album 'Fever Dreams' contains some genre-hopping sonic bedlam, fractured Americana-hued ballads, jazz-tinged standards, folk, old-school Jungle Book style reggae and ramshackle/rollicking noir blues. An album that captures magic and mayhem woven into a loose rock ’n’ roll aesthetic. The fingerprints of Bob Dylan, Tom Waits and Chet Baker are buried deep in the DNA of 'Fever Dreams'. It is an exciting stage act fresh from a recent tour of France.Megan Roweth
Megan Roweth
Megan began performing poetry when she was just 6 years old, and has loved doing so ever since. Now, aged 13, she has won multiple awards for her reciting, and recorded her first album of poetry. "Megan Roweth’s delivery of this collection of classic Australian poetry is brimming with wit and a depth of perception beyond her years.” - Kim Kelly, Writer
Melinda Smith
Melinda Smith is the author of six books of poetry, most recently 'Goodbye Cruel' (Pitt St Poetry 2017). She won the 2014 Prime Minister's Literary Award for 'Drag down to unlock or place an emergency call' and her work has been widely anthologised and translated into multiple languages. She's performed her work across Australia and in Italy, NZ and Japan. She's based in the ACT and is a former poetry editor of the Canberra Times.Mighty Murray Bush Band
Mighty Murray Bush Band
The musicians of the Mighty Murray Bush Band play dance music for Australian bush and colonial dances in Victoria, NSW, and Tasmania and come together at the National, with Norm Ellis of the Traditional Social Dance Association of Victoria, to present an afternoon of fun dancing for all.Mosaic Tribal Bellydance Showcase
Mosaic Tribal Bellydance Showcase
Dazzling swords, swirling skirts, colourful shawls, finger cymbals and more – Mosaic Tribal brings together dancers from NSW and Canberra to entertain audiences with a captivating display of tribal bellydance. Music is from around the world including Spain, India and live Middle Eastern drumming. The extravagant costumes reflect this global mix. Dancers present a blend of choreographed and improvised pieces, performing with personality and attitude to ensure the audience has as much fun as the dancers.Muddy Wolfe
Muddy Wolfe
Muddy Wolfe is a new band on the Canberra music scene. Their debut album (released March 2019) was well received among blues fans and got airplay on Triple J with their song 'Life of a Working Man'. But it doesn't stop with the blues! Muddy Wolfe crosses over into the realms of folk, jazz and rock with vocal harmonies and a band full of young talent with musical sensibilities beyond their years.New Graces, The
New Graces, The
The New Graces – Melanie Horsnell, Kate Burke and Robyn Martin – are seasoned identities in the Australian music scene who bring you guitar, fiddle, double bass and interwoven harmonies of three distinctly unique voices. Their lives have intersected through the magnetic musical pull of Candelo Village on the NSW far south coast. The three now join forces, weaving tales of farmers, hippies, mothers, sea farers, history, lovers, the ordinary and the mysterious. The New Graces are not to be missed.Ngati Morris Dancers (NZL)
Ngati Morris Dancers (NZL)
Ngati Morris Morris is the traveling arm of the New Zealand Morris dance community. The word Ngati means tribe in the Maori language. They feature some of the best dancers and musicians from Auckland, Nelson, Wellington and New Plymouth. In their distinctive black Baldricks embroidered with silver ferns they are an eye-catching addition to any folk festival. In addition to the traditional dances they have also developed there own Kiwi repertoire.Pagoda Project (UK)
Pagoda Project (UK)
Created by Paul Hutchinson (piano accordion) and Karen Wimhurst (clarinets), Pagoda Project brings together a unique blend of contemporary folk instrumentals with improvisation to create a warm, dynamic sound. Their originality, combined with a healthy dose of humour, leads to a fabulously entertaining concert. They come highly recommended, performing in festivals across the UK and the Czech Republic, earning them five star reviews from Songlines and FRoots. They've featured on the Songlines cd 'Top of the World'.
Paul McKenna Band, The
Called “the best folk band to have come out of Scotland in the last twenty years” by the New York Times, award-winning Glasgow singer Paul McKenna is ranked among Scotland’s finest young songwriters, armed with a powerful yet intensely emotive voice and passionate social conscience. Alongside Conor Markey (banjo/ bouzouki/ guitars) and Ewan Baird (percussion), Paul McKenna draws on both Scottish and Irish roots in a dynamic full-bodied array of original and traditional material.
Peppercorns, The
The Peppercorns are Craig Sinclair (guitar & vocals) and Lara Norman (violin, mandolin & vocals). Hailing from the south coast of WA, this duo bring together a wealth of musical influences on their bluegrass swing and old-timey inspired folk tunes. Using a traditional single microphone approach, their delicate string arrangements, soaring harmonies and timeless lyrics create a unique sound both intimate and powerful.Pete Wild & the Only Ones
Pete Wild & the Only Ones
Highly regarded as a performer and songwriter, Pete Wild and his band, the Only Ones, are touring their freshly pressed album 'Calm', an indie/ folk/ piano/ pop roller coaster ride that lurches from heartfelt comedy to deep melancholy. A survival manual for contemporary small town country Australia, caravan renovations, insomnia-inducing anxiety, romantic beginnings on South Coast beaches, losing your lover to the Mars 1 colonisation project ... you will love this collection of vibrant vignettes.Phillip’s Dog
Phillip’s Dog
Phillip's Dog is the only band in the world specialising in early Australian colonial dance music.They have collaborated with internationally renowned dance bands to bring a unique sound to the Australian dance scene. Based on the research of dance historian and teacher, Dr Heather Blasdale Clarke, combined with the talents of lead musician, Roland Clarke, be prepared for an extraordinary adventure in music and dance.Pitts Family Circus, The
Pitts Family Circus, The
Experience one of the last surviving family acrobatic troupes in Australia. Be entranced by spectacular acrobatics! Sword swallowing children! Baby balancing! Human Pyramids and more... With humble beginnings 15 years ago as a duo act doing a small street theatre show, The Pitts have now toured the world seven times and grown into a charming family circus. With their three young children their show is popular with crowds wherever they appear.PNG Peroveta Singers of Canberra
PNG Peroveta Singers of Canberra
The Canberra PNG Peroveta Singers present ancient tribal and gospel folk traditions (Peroveta). Peroveta convey Bible teachings, sung 'a cappella' with energetic exchanges of male and female melodies. This form was established in PNG by South Sea Islander missionaries in the 1880s. By contrast, the tribal forms are ancient chants that give buoyancy to their group dance formations, in traditional finery. Both styles are learned by ear and sung at important family and community events.Pot Pourri of Poetry
Pot Pourri of Poetry
Pot Pourri of Poetry – five poets strut their stuff and show you just how wide the world of poetry can be.Raglins, The
Raglins, The
The Raglins play traditional Australian folk songs with a contemporary twist. With driving acoustic guitar, beautiful vocals and stunning harmonies, The Raglins sing songs worth remembering. Twice runners up in the Folk Alliance Youth Awards, they have performed across Australia at nearly every major Australian folk festival, including most recently at Woodford Folk Festival.Rob Barratt (UK)
Rob Barratt (UK)
Rob Barratt is a brain-tickling word-mangling comic poet humourist and singer from England who has appeared at venues and festivals all over the UK and in Ireland and Australia. He combines clever word play verse and song with satire parody and audience participation. He deals with such important topics as squid Neanderthal politics, the weather in Scotland, and distressed furniture. “This is not only clever but I think it’s very funny” (Mike Harding).
RONDANIHAN
The Rondanihan traditional Filipino plucked string orchestra in Rondalla tradition commenced in 2002 in Canberra and has performed in the Philippines, Qld, NSW and the ACT, with regular performances in Canberra and surrounding regions. Based in Canberra, the group performs at major cultural events festivals, diplomatic and public receptions. The repertoire combines traditional and popular music from the Philippines along with classical and popular tunes arranged for plucked stings. Performances are often accompanied by dancers.Ruth Hazleton & Daisywheel
Ruth Hazleton & Daisywheel
Daisywheel is a lyrical voyage from the past through to the uneasy times in which we live. It’s also the much anticipated first solo project from multi award-winning traditional folk singer and songwriter, Ruth Hazleton. A stunning new sound brimming with originality and something to say, Ruth is joined on stage by a full electric band (guitars, banjos, drums, bass, mandolin, oud & yayli tambur).
Saije
Saije is a multi-instrumental folk duo whose soulful harmonies, dynamic guitar-lines and percussive breakdowns breathe life into heartfelt stories. They invite you on a journey from the depths of ancient forests to bustling French markets, weaving Celtic and French-gypsy flavours into their songs along the way. Their songwriting typically encourages connection to self, the Earth and each other. They are the Folk Alliance Australia ‘Young Artist of the Year 2019–2020’.Sarah Temporal
Sarah Temporal
Sarah Temporal is a dynamic performance poet, combining traditional tales with the immediacy of slam poetry. In 2018 she won the Nimbin Performance Poetry World Cup and Lismore Poetry Cup, and she has featured at Storyfest '18 and the Sydney Writers Festival. She is the convenor of Poets Out Loud in the Tweed Valley region and enjoys helping people of all ages fall in love with poetry.Savoy Dance
Savoy Dance
Savoy Dance celebrates the joy and energy of the diverse 1930's and 40's Swing Dance traditions and music. We teach, dance and perform Lindy Hop, Charleston and Solo Jazz dances from the African-American traditions of Harlem New York, Balboa from the west coast Los Angeles tradition and Blues dances originating in the American south. For us Swing Dance is about the joy of the music and the improvisation of social dancing.
Scroggin
True to their namesake, Scroggin play an eclectic, high-energy mix of delightful morsels both savoury and sweet. Well-rooted in bluegrass standards, they also branch into celtic folk, Australiana, and western swing, with a sprinkling of country songs for more sombre moments. Scroggin embrace the contradictions of traditional music in the new age, playing country music for city folk, and old fashioned songs for the modern world.Seanchas
Seanchas
Seanchas (pronounced Shenehass) is the Gaelic for "folklore old tales ancient history tradition". Australian celtic folk at its best, this is a super-group of outstanding musicians – Rosie McDonald (guitar, Irish bouzouki and vocals), Fiona McVicar (vocals and fiddle), Ken O’Neil (Irish bouzouki and guitar) and Anthony Woolcott (vocals and bodhran). Exquisite instrumentation and multi-layered vocal harmonies bring a range of traditional/ celtic tunes and songs to life with the Seanchas touch.Shelley’s Murder Boys
Shelley’s Murder Boys
Shelley’s Murder Boys take you through the depths of Sydney to the hills of Appalachia. Playing energetic old-time favourites, dark folk classics and originals inspired by the trials and tribulations of our time, SMB will be sure to take you on an old-timey adventure.Spooky Men’s Chorale, The
Spooky Men’s Chorale, The
These guys are renowned for a pleasing gravitas, anchored by the ponderance of eighteen years of vocal manboofery, leavened by touches of beauty which bring a small crinkle to the eye, and a delicate humour born of the necessity to see oneself as one is – a buffoon. They are festival legends, and will be singing classic songs of old and also many tasty morsels from a fairly fresh new album, "Welcome to the second half."
Stiff Gins
Stiff Gins combine stunning harmonies and wicked senses of humour to transport listeners to a world of joy, spirit and song. Their moniker is a reclamation of an offensive reference to Aboriginal women, a banner to guide their music in the direction of strength and pride. Three albums and countless breathtaking shows later, the name has become synonymous with musical excellence. 2019 marks Stiff Gins 20th anniversary.Storybeats
Storybeats
Acclaimed story-teller Lilli Rodreiguez-Pang teams up with percussionist Matt Bourne to engage and immerse listeners in the world of storytelling with an enchanting rhythmic twist. Lilli is an acclaimed storyteller who has performed on national and international main stages and theaters and Matt has over two decades of world percussion experience, performing professionally and teaching. Their first 'Storybeats' album went on to receive the Storytelling World Resource Awards honours.Stowaways, The
Stowaways, The
The Stowaways perform traditional music from the Celtic world and beyond, including sets of tunes and arrangements of songs. They also feature stories bringing out the richness of traditional composers and the journeys that musicians take. The band is multi-generational, combining the depth of years of playing of the two older members with the exciting raw talent of our young singer and bouzouki player.Surly Griffin Morris
Surly Griffin Morris
The Surly Griffins are Canberra’s local Morris side formed in early 2012 to fill the Morris gap in the Canberra region. They challenge the neatly defined conventions of Morris by bringing together the best of Border and Cotswold styles with a dollop of Yorkshire Longsword for good measure. They dance in a relaxed, laconic, yet vigorous, style and revel in entertaining crowds.Susan O’Neill – SON (IRE)
Susan O’Neill – SON (IRE)
All the way from County Clare, Ireland, the prodigiously gifted Susan O’Neill’s soulful and husky-voiced performances are truly something to behold. With a striking attitude, guitar, harmonica, trumpet, and a loop pedal, Susan delivers a timeless and powerful blend of the old soul with a new edge.
Sydney Irish Dance Ensemble
The Sydney Irish Dance Ensemble is a branch of the Sydney Irish Ceili Dancers which was formed to present themed performances such as the memorable 'Girls of the Shamrock Shore', the 'Irish Wedding', 'Finnegan's Wak'e and 'Man of Aran'. The range of dancing performed includes solo step dancing, ceili dancing, set dancing and two hand dances. The dancing is accompanied by traditional musicians on fiddle, box, guitar, flute and tin whistle
Taikoz
Since 1997 Taikoz has performed throughout Australia and internationally including Japan, USA, Paris and India where their collaboration with South Indian classical dance company Lingalayam was received with much acclaim. In 2017, Taikoz performed with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in a major new work, 'Breath of Thunder' by Lachlan Skipworth. In 2016, Artistic Director Ian Cleworth received the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for his contribution towards promoting friendship and goodwill between Australia and Japan.
Tangent
Known for lyrical playing and fearless improvisation on the fiddle and a driving and dynamic backup guitar style, Tangent (Kathleen Fownes and Everest Witman) is a force to be reckoned with in the North American trad scene. Their music draws on traditions such as bal folk and contemporary Scottish trad, as well as their roots as New England dance musicians. Marjolène Forest joins them as a contra dance caller and Québécois step dancer.Tango Social Club of Canberra
Tango Social Club of Canberra
Since the first tango was danced in Australia in 1913, this urban dance from Argentina has captivated audiences, musicans and dancers here. A century later ,and the Tango Social Club of Canberra is here to showcase the variety of dances and music that make up the world of tango today.Tenzin Choegyal
Tenzin Choegyal
A son of Tibetan nomads, Tenzin Choegyal feels a deep connection to the music of the wandering people of his homeland. He is a master of traditional Tibetan instruments the lingbu (bamboo flute) and the dranyen (3-stringed lute) but is best known for his extraordinary vocal ability. Tenzin’s cantering rhythms, soaring vocals and exquisite flute solos have enchanted audiences around the globe, including performances with Patti Smith, Laurie Anderson and Philip Glass at Carnegie Hall.Teri Young and the Restless
Teri Young and the Restless
Teri Young is fast becoming a leading voice in Australian social commentary songwriting, singing about the many kinds of love and tensions that unfold within communities, friendships and families. Nodding to traditions of bluegrass, Australiana and the great Irish balladeers, this Tasmanian folk band combine a clarion call with sweet groove. Everyone's invited."Her songs have wit, poignancy, strong narrative structure, and clear politics without being at all strident or self-serving." -Judy Small, Australian Folksinger
Tir an Oir Irish Dancers
Tir an Oir Irish Dancers
Tir an Oir is a modern Irish dance group which includes dancers that have performed and competed nationally and internationally. Be amazed by the intricate footwork and complex fast paced rhythms of the hard shoe performances. Admire the elegant grace of soft shoe and the precision of teams as dancers perform a mix of modern and traditional dances.TSDAV Dance Composers’ Competition
TSDAV Dance Composers’ Competition
TSDAV has run a Dance Composer's Competition since 1980. Come and try the dances yourself to see if you agree with the judges! The dances are instructed, danced by you, and judged in this session, and awards are given for the best General Social Dance and the best Dance for More Experienced Dancers.Tug Dumbly
Tug Dumbly
Poet and satirist Tug Dumbly has performed lots of radio and in many schools, venues and festivals. He ran the legendary and drunken Sydney poetry night Bardflys. He’s released two CDs through the ABC, once won the Spirit of Woodford storytelling comp, twice won the Banjo Paterson Prize for comic verse, and three times won the Nimbin World Performance Poetry Cup. His first book of poems, Son Songs, came out in December 2018.‘Uptown’ Brown!
‘Uptown’ Brown!
'Uptown' Brown! is a singing gentleman-adventurer performing a program of primitive 1920s–1930s jazz and blues on a self-invented one-man band. His contraption is built from cedar, leather and brass, whilst vocals & finger-picked ukulele are amplified through old megaphones, mimicking the effect of a 78 record. This is a quality musical and roving act in the finest tradition of vaudeville and ragtime.Victorian Folk Music Club’s Billabong Band
Victorian Folk Music Club’s Billabong Band
The Victorian Folk Music Club's Billabong Band is the longest continuously performing bush band in Australia. With its emphasis on traditional Australian (European) folk song, dance and poetry, it strives to keep alive the traditions that are sometimes overshadowed by the American and Scots/Irish traditions. It performs regularly around Melbourne and country towns at local festivals, dances and various private functions.We Mavericks (NZ/AUS)
We Mavericks (NZ/AUS)
This is original, wild folk that resembles everything else. We Mavericks is a new duo that packs emotional punches but has songs to heal the scars. Australia's Lindsay Martin brings sensitive strings and velvet vocals, while NZ’s songstress Victoria Vigenser delivers driving rhythms and gritty lyric with a truly magnificent voice. Musical twins and mavericks besides, their hooky originals and crazy stories will have you enthralled.Well Hall English Dancers
Well Hall English Dancers
Well Hall English Dancers are based in Melbourne. Wearing Regency costume, they perform graceful and intricate country dances from the 17th century to modern times. The dances illustrate the diversity of patterns, styles and music from past centuries.Whitetop Mountaineers (USA)
Whitetop Mountaineers (USA)
Featuring contemporary and traditional Southern mountain music of America from the classic old time bluegrass and country repertoire, Whitetop Mountaineers combines the brilliant instrumental prowess of Martha Spencer (guitar, fiddle & banjo) and Jackson Cunningham (guitar, banjo & mandolin), with seamless harmony vocals and some tricky Appalachian dance moves from Martha. Jackson is also a highly skilled luthier and his beautiful hand-crafted fiddles are in high demand.Whoa Mule
Whoa Mule
Whoa Mule brings you old-time country ballads, original songs, and driving triple fiddle dance tunes. Inspired by the rapid weather changes of the Blue Mountains and the bustle of Sydney streets, these musicians deliver a performance characterised by both space and energy. With rich experience earned in bands such as Catgut and Golden Whistler, Whoa Mule puts a glittery kick into old-time music.