Land of the long weekend

THERE is so much happening at the 15th annual Noosa Long Weekend Festival with over 80 events and 220 local, national and international artists, authors and guest speakers there’s hardly room for an introduction to this article.
True to the festival’s reputation of delivering world-class events and something for everyone, this year’s program encompasses a wide range of entertainment options including music, dance, theatre, cabaret, film, food, literature, kids events, workshops, and an opening carnivale infused parade embracing the community and visitors in celebration of the festival’s 15th year.
This year’s festival kicks off with a carnivale parade along Hasting’s Street which includes street musicians, performers, stilt walkers, jugglers, dancing girls and an abundance of feathers.
With more colour and movement than you could imagine, the parade will conclude on Noosa Beach with a spectacular twilight skydiving display finale with superheroes jumping and soft landing onto Noosa beach among other festive surprises.
Following the opening spectacular patrons who have purchased tickets will head off to The J theatre to delight in the opening act, the internationally celebrated Queen of Cabaret Meow Meow.
Also performing at this year’s festival are Swing on This, a high-energy group starring the gorgeous and entertaining Michael Falzon, Rob Mills, Luke Kennedy and a nine-piece Orchestra who promise to be a fast-paced, fun and entertaining highlight to the event calendar.
Steeped in the tradition of the Noosa Long Weekend Festival, the One-Act Play Festival is back as well as the popular comedy shows headlined this year by Mandy Nolan supported by Melony Brests and international burlesque sensation Sunday.
This festival boasts some terrific workshops including three separate dance workshops and a song-writing workshop with Keith Potger AO, one of Australia’s great musical legends, a founding member of The Seekers and ‘the’ consummate musician to boot.
Literature events include a breakfast with Hugh Mackay and talks by Garry Disher and Shelley Davidow.
Something new this year is the Festival of Thought presented in association with University of the Sunshine Coast which includes debates and talks about some of the hottest topics in Australia.
Foodies are not forgotten with six food events taking place over the 10-day festival including a Smoky Smooth Jazz and Blues Dinner, Seafood Seduction event and Italian Long Lunch.
With a line-up this good, tickets will sell fast. The Noosa Long Weekend Festival takes place from Friday 15 July to Sunday 24 July at multiple venues across Noosa. To book your tickets or for the full program head to www.noosalongweekend.com.