And like that Mad March is over… To say that it was one of the biggest and best yet is an understatement. With WOMADelaide 2016 coming to a close on Monday 14 March, it has been hailed as a spectacular success by the organisers.
The Festival broke all previous records, reflecting the strength and diversity of its programming in its 20th edition. Having reached its box office target before the gates even opened and achieving more than 95,000 attendances in Adelaide’s Botanic Park over the long weekend, it was massive!
The opening Friday night of the Festival was completely sold out, with both Saturday and Sunday at near capacity, and Monday supporting strong numbers throughout the day.
WOMADelaide Director Ian Scobie said that he was exceptionally pleased with what had been another extraordinary year of growth for the event befitting its 20th edition.
“The 2016 festival has proved to be a magnificent year with near perfect weather, fantastic crowds and a collection of the most unique and astounding artists from across the globe.”
“Our success is a testament to the WOMADelaide faithful who make the pilgrimage to the Festival every year with their continued support that has enabled the event to continue to grow in depth and diversity.”
Among the many highlights over the weekend were Australian festival favourites The Cat Empire and the stunning collaboration between Benin’s Angélique Kidjo and the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra on the opening night, gypsy flamenco singer Diego el Cigala, Colombian harpist Edmar Castañeda Trio, American singer-songwriter John Grant, Mali’s Songhoy Blues, English singer Eska’s with surprise guests, Adelaide ensemble [big] String, dance companies Djuki Mala and ADT and the powerful protest-dance music of 47SOUL from Palestine, Syria and Jordan.
David Suzuki’s inspiring and topical keynote address highlighted the 2016 Plant Talks program, which saw the forum of environmental discussion panels gather its largest audiences to date; while legendary UK cross-genre party band Asian Dub Foundation exploded onto the stage bringing the Festival to a close with an unforgettable Foundation Stage performance.
WOMADelaide 2017 will be held from 10 – 13 March, Adelaide Botanic Park.
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