Author: Jesse McCarthy-Price
Published: March 15, 2017
It’s been a few years since we’ve been as excited about FOTW as we are now. After a lead up of events and with the weather looking good [enough] the festival is shaping up to be without a doubt one of the best of recent times. But if you’re a bit flustered about having so many possible activities to do in one weekend (unusual) check out our top picks to get you started.
Remember those massive leafy sea dragon puppets from a few years ago? Well they’re about to get outdone by the Mandaboornap Dreaming Puppet Project as the festival kicks off to a flying start. After months of preparation, the large-scale puppet show will retell the Dreamtime story of how everyone’s favourite Frenchman’s Peak was formed. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to immerse yourself in dazzling storytelling and local culture we don’t really get to see enough of. Then head to Thirsty Thursday.
The epicentre of the festival will be found at the Museum Park. It’s been designed to surround the live entertainment at the soundshell and spill out across the park towards the sea. There’s plenty of “all-ages” entertainment on the cards including a Sci-tech tent (yes), pirate performers and circus tricks. For the proactive people, there are free sustainability workshops and yoga classes at your disposal, and once that has worn you out you can grab a bite to eat and go enjoy the music at the Shell.
Sick of the Snake Pit? Then you are in for a treat. Over 18’s can head to the Cannery for a change of scenery and a taste of good live music. The Perth acts are Edie Green (kinda bluesy- funk-folk) and punk rock band Two For Flinching, with Esperance musos Firehorse and A General Disarray joining the ranks. If you missed out on Art to Wear or Taste of Esperance tickets, this one is your last chance. Get in quick before tickets ($35) inevitably sell out.
There’s something so magical about sand castles. All that effort and then a big wave or annoying little kid comes along and ruins everything. But this is not your regular sand sculpture affair, it’s 11-time world champion Kelly Slater Kevin Crawford who is creating a massive work of art and teaching you to do the same. On Saturday, you can take part in workshops, and on Sunday the game is on. Come down from 11am to compete in the sculpture competition, or 1pm to watch the judging take place.
It’s been months now since Esperance’s arguably most loved public works project opened and now it’s time for our local groms to show off their skateboarding, BMX and scooter skills in the Freestyle Now competition. Head down to the skate park from midday onwards to relax on the beanbags and be wowed by the talent. And of course, for those of you who’d like to take part – registration opens at 11am.
Festival of the Wind runs over four days from 16th to 19th of March. All events are listed in our What’s On Calendar. For more information and for ticket sales please go to the FOTW website.
