Some of Australia’s best and brightest female talents are coming out to celebrate International Women’s Day with two massive days of events in Boonwurrung Country/St Kilda on the Labour Day long weekend. Event ambassadors Kate Ceberano, Tania Doko, and Ella Hooper are among the talents taking part in ROAR FEST Celebrating Women in Music which aims to see “more women on and off the stage”.
“It has always been my intention as an artist, to carve a path for other women to walk,” Kate explained. “This festival is a way for women in music to share our songs, discuss the work behind the music, share wisdom and stories of touring and performing. On the bill are friends, family and musicians who I admire and love”
“There’s been a lot of talk but not a lot of action to address the lack of women on festivals. This festival IS the action!” Ella enthused. “It also celebrates several eras, genres and generations, making it unique in its appeal. You can come with your girls, your mum or your aunties, and your brothers and uncles! All are welcome. The fact its women led behind the scenes is unique and very rare. Not to mention female crew and industry workers manning the sound and lights. ROAR is walking the talk!”
The highlights will be two big concerts at the end of each day. On Saturday March 8, ROAR FEST presents Women on the Bay at George Lane. This concert focuses on emerging artists and has a ripper bill featuring Kathleen Halloran, Charlie Needs Braces, Ruby Mae, Charlie Lane, and Wild Gloriosa. On March 9, the event concludes with the headlining concert at the National Theatre hosted by Ella Hooper with performances from Kate Ceberano, Tania Doko, WILSN, Gabriella Cilmi, and Gypsy Lee.
ROAR FEST will also feature a panel discussion event with the event ambassadors, Women in Music photo exhibition, Inaugural Women in Music St Kilda guided walking tours, live and local showcases and buskers, and heaps more.
Head to the ROAR FEST website for all the details of this exciting celebration of women in music.
Photo credit: Michelle Grace Hunder