Darwin Festival has unveiled Kate Fell as its new artistic director for 2023 and beyond

The 2022 finalists for the Indigenous Music Awards have been released ahead of the event next month, with our Jess up for artist of the year.

Monique Van Der Heyden and Nathaniel Chambers

2 min read

July 27, 2022 - 11:48AM

Northern Territory

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DARWIN Festival has announced experienced arts leader Kate Fell as the organisation’s incoming artistic director for 2023.

Ms Fell comes in to replace Felix Preval, who will cap off his time in charge at this year’s upcoming Festival.

She is a highly experienced leader in the arts space with over 20 years working in the field as a creative director, program director, executive producer and CEO for festivals, venues and companies.

Prior to joining the Darwin team she was executive producer of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

“I’m incredibly excited to be accepting the role and can’t wait to immerse myself in the Festival program this year before stepping into the role full time,” Ms Fell said.

“The NT has a truly unique creative arts scene, and it offers something that can’t be found anywhere else in Australia.

“I look forward to becoming a part of this wonderful community and helping lead an international Festival that Territorians can be proud of.”

Outgoing director Mr Preval started with the Darwin Festival in 2016 and has seen the festival grow immensely over the past six years.

During his tenure, the Festival has enjoyed record-breaking years, with the 2019 event smashing all previous ticket sales records over its 40 year history.

He also oversaw the first homegrown festival in 2020, in the midst of the global covid pandemic.

“Directing Darwin Festival’s artistic vision has been a real highlight for me professionally and personally,” he said.

“I couldn’t be happier to pass the baton on to Kate Fell. Kate is a wonderful colleague and collaborator.

“I feel sure that she will bring Darwin many more years of fantastic programming, and will fall in love with the city, just as I have.”

Revealed: NIMA finalists

The National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) have revealed this year’s finalists ahead of the ceremony next month.

More than 20 artists have been nominated as the finest in First Nations music, with winners to be chosen under the stars at Darwin Amphitheatre on August 6.

After two years of cancelled live performances, the massive celebration of Indigenous music is back with a stunning line-up of artists including Thelma Plum and King Stingray.

Rising star Barkaa- a Malyangapa and Barkindji woman – is leading this years finalists with four nominations.

Tickets for the event are on sale now, via the ticket link at nima.musicnt.com.au.

2022 NATIONAL INDIGENOUS MUSIC AWARDS FINALISTS