Adelaide endured one of its famous 40C heatwaves over the Adelaide Cup long weekend. In this climate, events can be cancelled, postponed or modified. To their credit, the WOMADelaide organisers made the World’s festival as comfortable as could be. The bats that have recently taken up residence in the Frome Road copse of trees were closely monitored and kept comfortable. This meant the closure of stage 7 during the day and a modified schedule for some acts. Fortunately, the phone App kept up to date with changes and notifications.
The organisers also learned from last year’s overcrowding and lack of toilets, and both issues were addressed. Many more toilets meant that there were no queues over the event. A change in layout also helped spread the audience out over a far larger space without central crowding. The market stalls were moved closer to the zoo area, which meant, to me, at least, a more festive entrance as soon as you entered the grounds. The food stalls and eating areas were all under shady trees, and plenty of bars and free water dispensers kept everyone hydrated. Misting showers were dotted around in various places, which gave an instant cooling effect when standing under them. With seven stages, workshops and artist talks, roving performers and repeating performances, there was so much to see and do, that many people camped quietly on a rug under a shady tree and watched the adventure unfold around them. Dedicated walkways kept the flow of people steady.
With cheap or free entry for children, there was a large number of family groups and there was also plenty to keep them entertained throughout the weekend. Roving performers, ice-cream stalls, KIDSWORLD, acrobats, there really was something at every turn. There was still plenty for the older generation, with an abundance of artisan craft stalls, food offerings from around the world, Taste the World sessions and the corresponding Taste the World restaurant; the focus really is on bringing the essence of different world cultures to the event. The Planet talks were also well patronised, with topics such as “The Future of Activism” and “Deep Listening to Nature” particularly enlightening.
Interestingly, as the weekend developed, some of the repeating installations became more well known. In the Adelaide Botanic High gymnasium, Compagnie On Off hostess Lucy Martin, has cloned herself to fulfil the essential task of performing “Le Chant De L’eau” on volunteers. Lucy remarked that at the beginning of the weekend no-one wanted to volunteer, whereas now she had too many. The four Lucy Martin’s (those who could make it to Adelaide) surround the blindfolded volunteers with a texture of sound and gentle touch to vibrate the water energy in a positive way. In a word, hilarious, yet somehow a soothing escape from the oppressive heat outside.
Another nightly performance by South Korean director Jinyeob Lee, Elephants Laugh – Muljil was a thought provoking experience. Four fully dressed people are standing in a clear tall box of water, high enough for them to just be able to breathe through their noses. The meaning of Muljil is that moment of breathlessness when under water. The female Korean divers of Jeju Island, known as Haenyeo, have mastered controlling this moment. One interpretation to watching the actors spend long moments underwater in their clear boxes is that of overcoming crises in our own lives. We are separated, yet of the same ocean. We become entangled in the byproducts of our daily lives. A guest from the audience is invited to enter the tube with the original participant. One unexpected by-product of this is that the water rises above their heads and they need to support each other to breathe. With ritualistic choreography, music, lighting and a climaxing in a mass dance, it was truly a unique experience.
Other performers such as Born in a Taxi floated around in lit up fairy costumes, entrancing children with dance. The Handspring Puppet Company from South Africa was particularly prominent with their life sized mechanical elephants, plus a cute baby one. STREB Extreme Action from the USA moved their performances to later in the day as they have an intense routine on a giant wheel and trampolines. France’s aerial performers, Gratte Ciel, chose a more subdued performance than the feathers last year and twirled and danced on tall poles amongst the Moreton Bay pines.
For many though, the music is what matters most. Ziggy Marley headlining on the final day became controversial due to comments made previously supporting Israel in the Israel / Palestine conflict. However, most were there to see their favourite artist(s). A massive Brazilian contingent gave a resounding welcome to Gilberto Gil, a popular artist at previous Womad events. His band was a family affair, with two sons, a grandson and granddaughter all thoroughly enjoying playing some traditional classic songs.
Sweden’s José González also had a large crowd of devoted fans. His simple songs, with only an acoustic guitar to complement his soulful voice had the audience mesmerised. They say that the power of music is a strong force that can heal and that seemed true for the Ethiopian / Australian band Black Jesus Experience. Singer Enushu began entertaining her local community as a child in Addis Ababa, migrating to Australia bringing hauntingly beautiful compositions inspired by her remarkable life story and the unique vocal traditions of Ethiopia. Despite some recent ill-health, she returned to the stage and was visibly gaining energy from the twelve-piece band around her, as well as from the power of the audience. The music is a fusion of traditional Ethiopian song and 21st Century groove.
One could list out performers enjoying their time on stage, from the British funk musicians, Cymande, The Budos Band from USA, the Chilean folk protest singers, Illapu and the American soul trio Thee Sacred Souls. On the Foundation stage, Angélique Kidjo was an absolute delight to watch as she gave her all to her music. Popular Zambian group WITCH, (We Intend To Cause Havoc) headed by lead vocalist Emanuel “Jagari” Chanda play a type of Zamrock which is instantly likeable.
When Morcheeba took to the stage, a massive flock of white cockatoos flew over the audience, much to the delight and amazement of vocalist Skye Edwards. Although founded in the 90’s this was their first visit to Adelaide, and was certainly a memorable performance. As the sun slowly set, cooling the temperature ever so lightly, the opening song “The Sea” was an instant crowd pleaser. Possibly the most beautiful way to watch a sunset.
Local acts such as Erin Buku, Rob Edwards and Slowmango drew good size enthusiastic crowds. In particular the outrageous costumes from Slowmango were outrageous. Their quirky characters suit the quirky music and the audience were there for it. However, with the seven stages of music over four days, it’s almost impossible to see everyone. There were glowing reviews from other attendees for Angolan songstress Pongo, British singer Corinne Bailey Rae and the anarchic band from Bosnia & Herzegovina, Dubioza Kolektiv, amongst many more. The NSS Academy stage, showcasing emerging young First Nations and culturally diverse South Australian artists was better placed this year, closer to the market stalls. This helped them attract a larger audience.
WOMADelaide’s dedication to the planet extends beyond the music and the workshops. Reusable cups are washed daily for reuse at the bar. A dedicated team of volunteers keep a sharp eye on the correct recycling bin to use, with all food containers being compostable. Volunteers also help with child-safety bands, cloak rooms, and general help and advice. The event has really become an important part of the South Australian event calendar. Nestled in the parklands, just walking distance from the city, it couldn’t be better. Full credit to the organisers for listening and reacting to feedback. Small changes made a big difference this year to the user experience. It’s a shining light in Adelaide’s ever expanding festival offerings.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Held on the traditional lands of the Kaurna People, WOMADelaide – World Of Music Arts & Dance – is an iconic open-air festival celebrating cultural discovery in the heart of Adelaide’s stunning Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla. The Worlds Festival, since 1992, is a truly unique part of the Australian festival landscape, showcasing the best, the essential – and the surprising – in music, arts, dance and ideas from around the world.
