Tickets are now on sale for the five-day celebration of our national folk life which will be headlined in 2023 by Australian folk rock legends The Waifs, known for their hits “London Still” (2002), “Bridal Train” (2004) and “Sun Dirt Water”, as well as supporting Bob Dylan on his 2003 Australian and North American tours.
“The Waifs have such fond memories of playing at the National Folk festival,” said Vikki Thorn, singer and guitarist from The Waifs.
“It was early days for the band and it was a very exciting time to be received with such enthusiasm by the festival crowds. We really felt like we had found our place on the festival circuit . We are so very happy to be returning in 2023.”
Alongside them will be English singer-songwriter Billy Bragg, an activist and well known for his hits in the late ‘80s, bringing his musical tales of romance, politics and protest.
Other acts performing over the Easter long weekend next year include returning favourites Fred Smith, Steve Poltz, Jan Preston, The Pigs, Tony McManus, Apodimi Compania and ARIA Award-winning Kavisha Mazzella.
The festival will also include Natalie and Brittany Haas from the USA; storytelling duo We Mavericks; well-loved local trio Keith Potger (formerly of The Seekers) with Moya Simpson & John Shortis; and all the way from the UK, Chris While & Julie Matthews.
Further adding to the line-up, the festival is excited to host many of this year’s Folk Alliance Australia Folk Music Award winners including: Austral, Winner of Traditional Folk Music Album of the Year; Charm of Finches, Contemporary Folk Music Album of the Year; Fred Smith – Solo Artist of the Year; The Lost Clogs, Community/Cultural Project of the Year; and Hillbilly Goats – recipient of the People’s Choice Award.
The line-up of artists for the 2023 festival was assembled by Co-Artistic Directors, Dave O’Neill and Jo Cresswell.
Both Dave and Jo have had a long involvement with the National, with Jo part of the administrative and artistic team in the early years of the festival in Canberra and Dave as Artistic Director from 2006 until 2012. When they have not been working for the festival they have been regular featured performers and volunteers.
Dave has played with many Australian artists such as Jimmy Barnes, Eric Bogle, The Bushwackers, Fred Smith, and Enda Kenny and Jo currently directs the Celtic Arts Agency, leads walking/music/singing trips in France, directs the Charlotte Pass Celtic Music Camp with Dave and hosts residential singing events with guest teachers. They bring a unique blend of artistic and organizational innovation and brilliance to the National.
National Folk Festival Board President, David Gilks, said the 2023 line-up will offer something for everyone.
“The Nash is one of Canberra’s most inclusive, surprising and energising events, and we’re excited to welcome everyone to join in, whether it’s your first festival or your thirtieth!” Mr Gilks said today.
“More than 15,000 visitors flock to the event each year for the music, dance and spoken word and also to enjoy the markets, the food and the festival atmosphere on Ngunnawal country.”
“Beyond the world-class performances on stage, the festival invites everyone to get involved with activities for kids, music and dance workshops, and the famous Session Bar.”
“Next year’s festival will once again offer that unique ‘Nash’ experience.”
After a hiatus caused by the pandemic, and a strong return in 2022, organisers are excited to share the stellar first line-up ahead of Christmas, with further announcements expected in the New Year.
“We have such a strong community of supportive, friendly and loyal folks that come each year; many people find a real community and look forward to returning to see their friends again each year,” Mr Gilks said.
“We hope to see you there in 2023 and that you get the chance to experience some great music over an inspiring weekend.”
The National Folk Festival is an annual celebration of music and storytelling held over the Easter long weekend in Canberra.
In 2023, the event will run 6-10 April at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC). Further announcements, updates and tickets are available at https://www.folkfestival.org.au/.