Under new leadership of artistic director Anna Reece, Perth Festival 2025 is set to shine a spotlight on First Nations storytelling.
Running for 24 days from February 7 with 104 events scheduled - 64 of them free - the festival emphasises Western Australia's rich creative talent and Indigenous heritage.
Advisor and Noongar Elder, Dr Richard Walley OAM, has played a pivotal role in shaping the festival's commitment to elevating First Nations voices.
"My role is to advise and ensure that Aboriginal culture is represented authentically and powerfully across the festival's events," Dr Walley said.
"Whether it's through theatre, song, film, or art, this platform creates opportunities for Aboriginal people to share their stories and truths with a wider audience."
The festival opens with Karla Bidi, a breathtaking Noongar-inspired illuminated pathway along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River). The installation symbolises inclusivity and connection, welcoming attendees to engage with the depth of Noongar culture.
"Karla Bidi encapsulates the spirit of our stories and the importance of sharing them in ways that resonate with both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal audiences," Dr Walley said.
A highlight of this year's program is A Night Out West, an all-Indigenous lineup honouring the legacy of the Coolbaroo Club, a vital mid-20th-century space for Aboriginal culture and community in Perth.
Dr Walley sees this event as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring strength and creativity of Aboriginal communities.
The Dance Drawing on Indigenous History program at Ballet at The Quarry presents works inspired by Indigenous heritage.
Celebrations of Indigenous music and storytelling continue with Big Name, No Blankets, honouring the Warumpi Band's legacy as pioneers of Aboriginal language music, and, a tribute to Middar Dance Theatre, which highlights its contributions to cultural storytelling through dance.
This year's program also features Boorloo Contemporary, which includes Killa: Pindan to Plate, an immersive dining experience exploring Kimberley food narratives; Stolen Wages by Mervyn Street, a powerful exhibition of love, struggle, and triumph at Fremantle Arts Centre; and Burndud Ground by Alice Guiness, a striking display of neon sculptures and media installations at John Curtin Gallery.
A projection art series, featuring works by three First Nations artists, also forms part of Boorloo Contemporary.
Another standout event is Casa Musica, a vibrant celebration of music, food, and culture at East Perth Power Station, featuring performances by Warnindhilyagwa blues and roots singer Emily Wurramara and East Kimberley artist Iconyx.
Jess Hitchcock and the Penny Quartet will perform an reimagining Hitchcock's solo albums with fresh orchestral arrangements, showcasing her deeply personal songs at His Majesty's Theatre.
Artistic director Anna Reece praised the integral role of First Nations voices in shaping this year's program.
"We hope to entice our audiences into all kinds of spaces across our city with spectacular events that are accessible and immersive, that span our cultural foundations as a state and a city—from our First Nations to our European and Asian migration stories," Ms Reece said.
Dr Walley reflected on the festival's evolution over his 40 years of involvement, noting how Indigenous representation has transformed.
"In the early days, Aboriginal people were often the subjects of stories told by non-Indigenous creators. Over time, we moved to co-creating, and now, Aboriginal people are leading productions, sharing our voices authentically," Dr Walley said.
He emphasised the transformative power of the festival in bridging communities.
"While we continue to create productions for our own people, events like Perth Festival open the door for wider audiences to understand our history, struggles, and resilience since colonisation," Dr Walley said.
This year Perth festival has introduced Mob Tix, an initiative offering $25 tickets exclusively for First Nations people, ensuring greater accessibility and inclusivity.
Mob Tix applies to shows including Electric Fields at East Perth Power Station, Big Name, No Blankets and A Night Out West.
