Aspiring Conversations returns
After a six-year hiatus, Aspiring Conversations returns to our beautiful backyard from 4-7 April, hosting 14 events across three venues to stimulate the mind and feed the soul. The full programme will be available online at aspiringconversations.co.nz from 7pm on Monday, 29 January, with ticket sales starting at 8.30am on Friday, 2 February.
The first session announced, ‘Tower of Song’, features Kiwi songwriters Julia Deans, Adam McGrath, and Ebony Lamb, hosted by music writer and broadcaster Grant Smithies. Attendees can expect not only performances but also a profound exploration of the musicians’ early experiences, delving into the magic, inspiration, and challenges of songwriting.
As the festival unfolds, a diverse lineup of over 40 speakers and artists will explore a range of topics, from culture and history to adventure, food, politics, personal challenges, and climate change. This year’s thematic exploration extends into artificial intelligence, wellbeing, writing and the timeless allure of Greek mythology.
The programme includes storytelling, live theatre, music, spoken word, school workshops, and engaging kōrero, with surprise installations from the local community to be revealed at the event. In these challenging times, nurturing genuine dialogue is crucial, and Aspiring Conversations provides an opportunity to come together, listen, talk, laugh, be challenged, and learn while reconnecting within our growing community.
