Hanuman’s Jimmy Shu says 2020 Homegrown Darwin Festival will be his last as a food provider

A REWORKED Darwin Festival will this year feature more homegrown talent on a new stage, however it comes at the cost of the beloved Lighthouse and Spiegeltent

Darwin Festival artistic director Felix Preval has announced Sunset Stage will replace the Lighthouse this year, while Jimmy Shu is returning with some of his signature dishes. Picture: GLENN CAMPBELL

A REWORKED Darwin Festival will this year feature more homegrown talent on a new stage, however it comes at the cost of the beloved Lighthouse and Spiegeltent.

Themed as “DF20 Homegrown”, this year’s 11 day festival will feature a majority of local talent, with the Sunset Stage a new addition.

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Darwin Festival Artistic Director Felix Preval said he was looking forward to the new set-up.

“Sunset Stage is more of an illusion but it’s certainly a great spot to see some colourful acts perform,” he said.

“We’re really excited it’s going to be almost 100 per cent Territory line-up.”

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George Brown Botanic Garden’s Amphitheatre will also fall victim to the smaller event, with the venue deemed too big and a number of events moving to an online platform.

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While popular restaurant Hanuman will return, owner Jimmy Shu said it would be his last involved.

“Every little event like this is a bonus, something to look forward to,” he said.

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“It has special meaning to me, it’ll be my 20th consecutive event. I was supposed to resign last year – I think that’s a milestone no one can beat currently. I feel like a Federer with a number of feathers in my cap.”

Darwin Festival’s full program will be released on July 9.