BoJesse Pigram to feature in A Taste of Broome

Written on the 13 July 2017

This year's A Taste Of Broome (ATOB) will mark the fifth celebration of local Indigenous culture, confirming its place as a highlight of the Broome tourism calendar.

This year, the festival will have a two-part focus. Once again, the role of local Indigenous women will be in the spotlight, as we acknowledge their contribution to the creation of the community's identity through pearling and the town's cultural development.  The second element will focus on the wartime era and bombing of Broome, as 2017 marks the 75th anniversary of the attacks.

You can hear stories and walk with us hand in hand as together we experience the journey of Broome's history as seen through the eyes of her mothers, sisters and daughters. We'll also learn more about their heartbreak of loss and suffering, through to their joys at seeing family return home after long dives' away. We'll also hear stories from families who were in Broome during the bombing, reliving the experiences that have made Broome what it is today.

To bring these tales to life, Creative Director Guy Ghouse has curated a stellar line up of performances. Of particular note is local Broome resident, BoJesse Pigram, who has shot to fame in the latest season of The Voice Australia. Known for his soulful lyrics and musicality, BoJesse's performance is sure to bring the house down.

A number of other acclaimed artists are taking part in this year's show including long time favourites Stephen "Baamba" Albert, Naomi Pigram, Lorrae Coffin, Susie Quicke, Tania Mckenna, Arnhem Hunter and Mick Stevens. Breakout stars from the 2016 festival, Emma Sibosado and Pauline Bin Sali, will also be returning, encouraging one and all to celebrate through music.

You'll be able to catch all of these outstanding performers across three nights in July, August and September. The first night of celebration is on Thursday 20 July.

ATOB continues to be a unique music and picture show experience that combines Broome's distinctive Indigenous culture and its multicultural community to promote its vibrant soul through music, dance, food, arts and crafts, tradition and heritage.

Building on the success of the 2016 event, this year's ATOB will not only celebrate local women but will also feature a number of new performances, artists and cuisine.

Goolarri Media Enterprises Chief Operations officer Kira Fong says ATOB continues to promote Broome's unique lifestyle and cultural history, and is the region's premier Indigenous arts event.

"ATOB is an award-winning multi-arts performance and cuisine-based project, primarily focused on the unique multiculturalism within the community of Broome and the Indigenous heritage and culture inherent in the region," Kira says.

"It combines the performing arts mediums of dance, music and film to create a dynamic and rich production that celebrates Broome's identity."

A Taste of Broome is supported by Tourism WA's Regional Events Program, which is funded by the State Government's Royalties for Regions. Local partnerships have been developed with the Broome Visitor Centre and Australia's North West with state partnerships including the Department of Communities through the Social Enterprise Fund. This funding and support has allowed the continued training and employment for Indigenous people through event management and media and further strengthens connection between industry and community.

Since the show's beginning in 2013, A Taste of Broome continues to achieve greater social, cultural and economic fulfilment, and prosperity. With five years under its belt, it is a testament to the strength of the community and culture and will hopefully continue to help share important stories for many years to come.

-ENDS-

TICKETS SALE INFO
For ticket information visit the Broome Visitor Centre or head to www.visitbroome.com.au and goolarri.com/atob

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Kira Fong at kira.fong@gme.com.au or (08) 9195 5313