WOMADelaide Delivers Scorching First Artist Announcement

Regarded as not only one of the best festivals in Australia but the world, it’s not surprising WOMADelaide has come out in full force with its first artist announcement for next year’s event, locking down seminal UK ska outfit The Specials as a headline act alongside 20 other impressive names.

After smashing attendance records this year, the fan favourite will celebrate its 25th anniversary from March 10 – 13, returning to Botanic Park, confirming acclaimed Brazilian bossa nova singer Bebel Gilberto, while WOMAD veterans Cie Carabosse make the trip from France for their fourth appearance, delivering nightly fire installation The Exodus Of Forgotten Peoples in Frome Park.

The eclectic bill will also feature a festival debut from The Philip Glass Ensemble, an Australian premiere from Jamaican phenomenon Brushy one string, the return of Aussie legends The Waifs, Archie Roach and more.

Here’s the WOMADelaide 2017 line-up so far:

9Bach, Ana Tijoux, Archie Roach, Bebel Gilberto, Brushy one string, Cie Carabosse, The East Pointers, Gawurra, Hanoi Masters, Inna Modja, La Mambanegra, The Manganiyar Classroom, Mercedes Peón, Philip Glass Ensemble, Sinkane, The Soil, The Specials, Sudha Ragunathan, The Waifs, Warsaw Village Band, Xylouris White

“It seems like yesterday but in the 25 years since 1992, WOMADelaide has brought together a diversity of artists and audiences and evolved into a completely immersive, welcoming and accessible cultural experience where art matters and is celebrated,” WOMAD director Ian Scobie said.

“It truly has become ‘the world’s festival’, all within one park, over a glorious long weekend.”

The next WOMADadelaide artist announcement is scheduled for Nov 8, with tickets and more info available via the festival’s official site.