Murwillumbah Festival of Performing Arts celebrates 103 years of showcasing young talent

FOR over a century, the Murwillumbah Festival of Performing Arts has stood as a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in the Northern Rivers region.

Now in its 103rd year, the festival continues its proud tradition of nurturing young performers from across a vast stretch of the eastern seaboard, from Brisbane to Coffs Harbour.

The festival provides a valuable platform for emerging artists to compete and develop their skills across three disciplines: speech and drama, music and dance. Each year, talented young people take to the stage to demonstrate their dedication and artistry, gaining invaluable experience in a supportive competitive environment.

Beyond its role in fostering the next generation of performers, the festival serves as a significant drawcard for the region.

Visitors travelling to attend the event often extend their stay to explore the natural beauty and attractions that make Murwillumbah and its surrounds such a beloved destination.

The culmination of each year’s festival is a spectacular gala concert, where standout performers are invited to showcase their talents in a two-hour celebration of the arts.

This year’s concert promises to deliver an exceptional evening of entertainment featuring the finest dancers, musicians and actors from the festival program.

The 2026 gala concert will be held on Wednesday 5 August at 6.30pm at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre.

Audiences can expect a memorable night celebrating the remarkable abilities of the region’s most promising young performers.