From Friday, May 2 to Sunday May 11, Horizon’s bold, eclectic program of over 50 event will light up locations and venues spanning the Sunshine Coast’s hinterland, coastline, skyline and urban streetscape.
In a world filled with turmoil, the festival’s grounding theme of “radical hope”, a concept that Creative Director Megan Rowland defines as, “the idea that hope is not merely an optimistic sentiment but a verb — an act of defiance or rebellion, a call to actively create and participate in change,” is more important than ever.
As Rowland explained, “We’re all grappling with uncertainty and instability — be that political, environmental, social or economic — and the arts play a critical role in uniting people, activating new ways of thinking, imagining new futures and creating positive change for people and our planet.
“Horizon’s program is curated to offer many ways to enter into this idea of Radical Hope. Some work is edgier, more experimental and designed to challenge people a little bit; other work is grounded in gathering and fun, and then there’s work around cultural understanding and First Nations knowledge.”
The festival will open with an incredible night street party that is the best kind of alliteration: fun, free and family-friendly! It will take place in Maroochydore’s bustling Ocean Street, which will become a home to live music, performances by local artists, food and drink, and an Urban Gallery weaving through shopfronts and streets, getting attendees in the mood for the amazing performances the program has in store.
Among this year’s highlights are Patricia Piccinini’s eye-catching Skywhales Across Australia, which will grace SEQ skies with their floating elegance for the first time, dance performances, new work by acclaimed artist Vernon Ah Kee and world-class performances from the likes of C.W. Stoneking, Full Flower Moon Band, and The Ironing Maidens in Electro House Wife.
And it’s not just music and dance! Thanks to Horizon’s varied locations and unique venues, the festival also serves as backdrop to experimental and engaging events across every genre: from the food-focused Supper Club Mapleton – Catching a Whiff, to the fashion-forward Confashional, there’s something to suit everyone!
It’s no wonder that, in its 9 years of life, Horizon has drawn over 300,000 visitors, and has become a centrepiece in the local art scene and the fabric of the community, so this is your chance to knit yourself into this patchwork of creativity and hope.
See the full program and get your tickets to your favourite events here!