The Newkulele Festival will take over Newcastle this weekend with a stack ukulele-fueled fun.
This year’s event, running from 18-20 October, promises to be bigger than ever, with a reimagined format spanning three days and three distinct venues across Newcastle.
Since its debut in 2012, the biennial festival has become a staple for music lovers, celebrating the versatility and charm of the ukulele. With performers from all over Australia, the festival caters to a wide range of music styles, ensuring something for everyone.
The festivities kick off on Friday, 18 October, at the Cricketers Arms in Cooks Hill featuring performances from local favourite ClydeStreet and Central Coast four-piece, Mirabooka.
Saturday’s events will be held at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, with shows taking place in multiple spaces, including the prestigious Harold Lobb Concert Hall.
Over 26 acts will take the stage, offering a diverse program that ranges from children’s entertainment to more advanced musical showcases. The morning’s highlights include performances by Mel Saunders from The Hive, Tom the Pom, and the Charlestown Public School Ukulele Ensemble. Workshops on topics like songwriting, bass ukulele, and singing will also be available for those eager to hone their skills.
A major highlight of the Saturday afternoon event will be the return of Newcastle’s pop-up choir, One Song Sing, organised by The Sum of the Parts. Festival-goers will learn and perform a song within an hour, creating a sense of community and shared musical joy.
The day will wrap up with an evening concert headlined by Queensland duo Tyrone & Lesley, supported by GreenFieldz and Newcastle’s Jac n Jel n Mac n Wal, with Cathy Crowley as the MC.
The final day of the festival, Sunday, 20 October, will take place at Carrington Bowling Club. The relaxed vibe on the green will feature community performers and local ukulele talent performing on two outdoor stages from 10 am to 4 pm.
Tickets and more information about the 2024 Newkulele Festival can be found at newkulelefestival.com.au.
