2008 MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL SET TO BE BEST ON RECORD

With spectacular new signature performances as well as old favourites, the 2008 National Multicultural Festival is expected to be the biggest and best on record.

The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, John Hargreaves has launched the 2008 Festival, which is held annually in the Capital in February (8 – 17).

Dozens of sponsors, heads of diplomatic missions, performers, volunteers and lunchtime shoppers attended the launch and were treated to a taste of things to come with a number of acts involved in the 10-day extravaganza showcasing their talents.

“In 2007, more than 150,000 people experienced all the wonderful diversity and community spirit the Festival had to offer and we’re set to do it all again in 2008,” Mr Hargreaves said.

“This year’s event will again feature old favourites such as the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets Food and Dance Spectacular, the Hellenic Club Carnivale and the much-loved Greek Glendi.

“These are supported by a range of local, national and international acts and events, including music, comedy, dance, films, exhibitions and workshops.

“A fully-fledged professional Egyptian orchestra, comprised entirely of blind female musicians, is sure to be one of the highlights of the 2008 Festival.

“The Nour Amal Blind Eye Orchestra is unique in that it is the only orchestra in the world entirely formed of vision-impaired people.

“Another highlight will be the Gospel Spectacular, featuring the international gospel group the St James AME Mass Choir and Dance Ministries from New Jersey in the USA.”

Mr Hargreaves said the Fringe Festival — now in its fifth year — would provide outstanding entertainment every evening in Civic Square, including cabaret, burlesque, circus and experimental arts.

“The ACT Government is delighted to host and support the National Multicultural Festival.

“We are indebted to Canberra’s multicultural and diplomatic community, to our generous sponsors and the hundred of volunteers. All invest their time, energy and ideas into making the event the success it is.”

For more information about the 2008 National Multicultural Festival log on to:

www.multiculturalfestival.com.au