Perth, Australia, Feb. 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --Beginning on February 13, the three-day 63rd Perth International Arts Festival (Perth International Arts Festival) officially kicked off before the eyes of 1.4 million spectators. The event featured free and spectacular performances"The Giant’s Journey through the Streets of Perth"(The Incredible and Phenomenal Journey of the Giants to the Streets of Perth), a "Giant’s Journey" organized and performed by France’s Royal de Luxe.
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As the “Giant Diver” took the first step of its city-wide journey, Perth residents flooded the streets. Perth International Arts Festival, photo by Jessica Wyld
During a smoking ceremony held by the Noongar people, the faces of two “giants” were painted with ochre as part of a traditional welcome ritual. Perth International Arts Festival, photo by Toni Wilkinson
Visitors from across Australia and around the world joined in the citywide celebration, falling in love with the 6-meter-tall “Little Girl Giant” and standing in awe of the 11-meter-tall “Diver Giant.”
Over the course of three days, this woven story primarily commemorated the centenary of the ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps), highlighting the vital role the Australian military played in World War I. It was also a joyous celebration for Western Australia’s Indigenous communities. But above all, the “Giant’s Journey” united the entire city through childlike curiosity.
Perth Festival Artistic Director Jonathan Holloway said: “It’s often said that it takes a village to raise a child, but it takes a city to raise a giant.”
“Perth residents came together because of this event, and everyone loved it. It’s one of the greatest examples of art’s extraordinary transformative power.”
“The Giant’s Journey received universal acclaim, and Perth will never forget the weekend the giants walked its streets.”
When the “Little Girl Giant” began “her” journey on the first day, thousands witnessed moments of wonder, humor, and amazement. From the moment “she” “awoke” to the singing of Noongar women, “she” captivated the audience. On the second day, the “Diver Giant” also “awoke” and embarked on a quest to find the “Little Girl Giant,” overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles along the way. The day ended with an emotional reunion of the two giants, delighting the gathered spectators. The third day saw the giants participate in an ANZAC commemoration ceremony, after which “they” set sail along the Swan River to continue “their” journey.
Other highlights of the “Giant’s Journey” included Perth children presenting specially made gifts to the “Little Girl Giant” -- —a book—which was also part of a wide-ranging educational program running alongside the “Giant’s Journey.”
The Perth International Arts Festival is Australia’s longest-running international arts festival and the premier cultural event in Western Australia. The festival has gained global recognition for showcasing outstanding international programs, presenting new works, and delivering high-quality artistic experiences to audiences. For 62 years, the Perth International Arts Festival has welcomed many of the world’s greatest living artists to Perth.
Contact:
Rania Ghandour
Perth Festival Media Relations Manager
Phone: +61-8-6488-8618 / +61-403-025-535
Email: rghandour@perthfestival.com.au