Second time’s a folk charm

The annual Port Fairy Folk Festival is getting closer, and the program is nothing short of a brilliant array of artists from across the globe, excelling in a range of genres and disciplines to celebrate the true joy and diversity of folk music and culture.

In its 41 years, the Port Fairy Folk Festival has introduced Australian audiences to new music and ideas, and the 42nd Festival will be no exception.

Caroline Moore, who made her debut as festival director in 2017, is still just as excited and nervous if not more so than last year.

“We have 40 new artists who have never performed at the festival,” Caroline said.

“My team and I are committed to bringing new talent and music to the festival each year, as well as ensuring festival favourites return.

“We hope people are enchanted by the array of music from all over the world and we have definitely ramped up the dancing aspect this year too!

“Dancing will be taken to the next level with tango, Irish jigs, and African rhythm styles on offer, just to name a few.

“On the international front, for their first ever tour of Australia, we have The Eskies, a band from Ireland who just blew me away when I stumbled across them in 2016 and will be releasing their second album on stage. This group will definitely get everyone up for a boogie.”

The festival is proudly presenting two exclusive performances of Exile – Songs & Tales of Irish Australia.

The brainchild of Shane Howard, this event brings together artists from Ireland and Australia in a moving celebration of the Irish impact on Australian life.

Through abundant literature, music, poetry and art, as well as a keen hunger for sport and justice, the Irish spirit has stamped itself on the evolving culture of Australia.

The full festival program will be available today (Thursday) at portfairyfolkfestival.com.au.

The 42nd Port Fairy Folk Festival will run from March 9-12.