Attendance figures have been released for SPARK Ipswich, showing a number of sell-out events provided a platform for 189 local artists across the eleven-day festival.
Little Day Out was one of the most popular events throughout the festival, with over 3,000 tickets being sold across two sessions, while WOMI sessions at Studio 188, all eight sessions of SPARK on Tour, and two of the Waghorn to West sessions were also among the most highly-attended.
SPARK Ipswich featured light installations, cabaret shows, historic music collaborations, comedy, arts, exhibitions, circus, technology, and a festival for children, all designed to showcase the city’s unique people, places, culture and art in a COVID safe manner.
Mayor Teresa Harding said it was wonderful to see so many residents and visitors enjoying Ipswich’s diverse cultural offerings.
“The creative community brings so much to our city, between the economic benefits of our many visitors, and the vibrancy and cultural depth that makes Ipswich such a great place to live,” Mayor Harding said.
“More than half of the 335 artists involved in SPARK were locals, who gained exposure to approximately 5,000 ticket-holders.
“I would like to thank everyone – the performers, the venues, and the many attendees – who made SPARK Ipswich a huge success this year.”
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chair Councillor Andrew Fechner said SPARK Ipswich raised community morale during these difficult times.
“SPARK Ipswich hit all the high notes this year with multiple sold out shows,” Cr Fechner said.
“Our community has missed out on so many performances and concerts due to COVID-19 over the past 18 months, so it was exciting to see SPARK Ipswich unite the city for eleven days of culture and arts.
“SPARK Ipswich brought our community together to celebrate our emerging and established local artists.
“The festival firmly underscores Ipswich as South East Queensland’s heartland for music, culture and arts, allowing us to tell our stories through a tapestry of music, art, light and community.”
Council’s attention now turns to Galvanized, the city’s new festival of heritage which will showcase the best heritage experiences and events Ipswich has to offer from 27 August to 5 September.
Read also:
>>> Mollie joins Barty party after a successful Olympics for Ipswich
