Darwin Entertainment Centre will host Garrmalang Retrospective this Saturday, a celebration honouring 10 powerful years of Garrmalang Festival.
Headlining this year's program is acclaimed Arrernte/Gurindji singer-songwriter Dan Sultan, performing live with the Darwin Symphony Orchestra Quintet in a one-night-only concert (7pm, The Playhouse). Featuring brand new string arrangements by acclaimed Darwin composer Netanela Mizrahi, the powerful collaboration blends acoustic intimacy, full-band energy, and orchestral grandeur in a tribute to First Nations musical storytelling.
Founded in 2014 by creative director Ben Graetz, Garrmalang Festival has grown into a nationally significant event, amplifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices through music, dance, storytelling and visual art on Larrakia Country.
This year's Retrospective brings together past, present and future in a dynamic one-day program of performances, exhibitions, and reflection.
The day begins with Our Elders (4pm, Studio Theatre) – a moving series of one-on-one conversations with revered Elders from Garramilla/Darwin. This event strives to honour the cultural custodians whose wisdom and resilience continue to shape our community.
At 5.30pm, the Garrmalang Retrospective Photographic Exhibition officially opens in The Gallery. Running from the 3rd of June to the 30th of July during events at Darwin Entertainment Centre, the exhibition captures the heart and spirit of a decade of Garrmalang Festival through striking imagery.
Graetz shared how the festival has grown and developed over the years.
"Garrmalang began as a dream – a space where our voices and stories could shine. Ten years on, it remains a gift to our people, a celebration of strength, creativity and culture," he said.
Darwin Entertainment Centre chief executive Georgia Hendy shared her excitement.
"We are incredibly proud to present and support Garrmalang Festival - Darwin's premier celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, culture, and storytelling. Now in its tenth year, Garrmalang is a powerful and important moment in our city's cultural calendar," she said.
"It brings people together on Larrakia Country to honour the depth, diversity and brilliance of First Nations voices. The Festival holds deep significance for our organisation, our community, and the creative spirit of the Top End."
Festival-goers can also enjoy live music from First Nations artists on the venue Forecourt from 3pm to 7pm.
Tickets are on sale now.
Garrmalang Retrospective is supported by Darwin Entertainment Centre, Northern Territory Government and Northern Territory Major Events Company, City of Darwin and Larrakia Nation. New partnerships with Airport Development Group and PowerWater also commence in 2025, further strengthening the program's reach and impact.
For more fashion, arts, culture and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.
