39th Top Half Folk Festival
Frid. 5th June-Mon. 8th June 2009
The Top Half Folk Festival was held on the above dates at Glen Helen Resort. The headline act for the weekend was John Williamson who performed for an hour on the Saturday night feature concert and also in an hour’s solo concert on the Sunday afternoon.
Both performances were very appreciably received by an audience made up of both local Alice Springs residents and a number of interstate visitors. John received a standing ovation for his Sunday afternoon concert and overall was well received throughout the weekend
The weekend consisted of a number of concerts where both local and interstate artists were featured. A range of musical talent was on display, with some of the highlights being provided by a number of younger performers who it must be said somewhat stole the show from some of the more seasoned performers. It is hoped to encourage more younger performers to future festivals.
Workshops/presentations were also featured over the weekend along with a folk version of a musical quiz, loosely based on the successful ABC show Spicks and Specks. Morning breakfasts were complimented with various people given the chance to recite some of their favourite poems. The poet’s breakfast has become an integral part of the Top Half Festivals and allows anyone and everyone to have a go at performing.
The main activities were centred in and around the marquee area where seating was provided for the 180 + people that are estimated to have attended. This area was complimented by a number of craft stalls owned and operated by local Alice Springs residents, situated outside the front entrance to the marquee adding to the general atmosphere of the weekend.
At the end of each nights main concert a large number of people retired to the inside area of the Glen Helen Resort where a free-for-all music session took place until the wee small hours. These sessions allow for anyone visiting to demonstrate their musical talents should they so desire.
Comments received by the organizers at the conclusion of the weekend ranged from “The best one yet” to “This was my first time and I’ll be back” and it was pleasing to see both regulars and first timers attend what was a very successful weekend.
David Evans
Co-Organiser