Illuminating Egypt festival

Banat Amar is a passionate ensemble of dancers and musicians performing vibrant Egyptian folkloric music and dance, using time-honoured skills and movement. Audiences will be captivated by their dynamic improvisations and choreography, dazzling costumes and seamless blend of Middle Eastern and Western instrumentation.

St Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church Choir brings a rich tapestry of ancient Coptic hymns and contemporary melodies to the Museum. An ensemble of individuals from various backgrounds and age groups, the choir unites in harmony to celebrate Egypt's spiritual and cultural heritage.

George Wasef is a young and passionate oud player from Canberra, who captivates listeners with the haunting beauty of this ancient instrument. George proudly embraces his Egyptian heritage, which infuses his music with rich cultural nuances.

Tarek and Youssef Sawires have been playing Egyptian tabla for many years, teaching and performing at festivals, community events and schools. Together they bring a traditional and contemporary flavour to their music, collaboratively creating and recording their music in both Australia and Egypt.

Yuval Ashkar is a composer, oud player, percussionist and internationally acclaimed musician, and has trained under renowned oud master Yair Dalal. Yuval has performed with artists across Australia and internationally, including Ladino singer Yasmin Levi, Cleis Pearce, Greg Sheehan, Tunji Beier and Kurdish Earth.

Phil Carroll is a multi-instrumental musician and has recently returned from living and performing in Turkey, where he studied the ney flute– an instrument that dates back to ancient Egypt. Phil was previously the leader of the Melbourne Middle Eastern band Yalla! and has performed at venues and festivals across Australia.

Zaffe Band Traditional Arabian Drumming presents a fresh and contemporary style of traditional Middle Eastern music. Their repertoire encompasses a fusion of Egyptian, Lebanese, Iraqi, Turkish and other musical styles, creating a vibrant tapestry of sounds. The Sydney band’s captivating energy and dynamic performances guarantee a spectacular visual and cultural experience for audiences.

Sara Martini is a celebrated Middle Eastern and North African dancer based in Canberra, with extensive experience of performing around Australia. She blends belly dance, or raks sharqi, into her repertoire with a captivating blend of skill, magic and flair.

The Turrellians – presented by The Fool Factory is a pair of abstract, glowing beings that bop and slide about, curiously interacting and engaging with their surrounds. A bizarre and visually stunning night roving act.