Griffith University has signed a three-year partnership deal with Bleach* Festival – the Gold Coast’s premiere arts and culture event.
The centrepiece of next year’s festival will be a blockbuster outdoor performance of Verdi’s Requiem, featuring students from the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.
Talented musicians from the Queensland Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra will work alongside a full cast from Opera Queensland for a spectacular concertunder the stars at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) in April 2019.
The concert will be directed by Opera Queensland Artistic Director Patrick Nolan, who will helm a team of award-winning creatives, including internationally renowned conductor Natalie Murray Beale, designer and fire artist Alex Podger with video and lighting by Mark Howett.
Griffith University Deputy Vice Chancellor (Engagement), Professor Martin Betts, said the partnership with Bleach* Festival would provide a remarkable opportunity for students involved in the creative arts at Griffith.
“Griffith has been recognised as the number one creative arts university in Australia and the Queensland Conservatorium is home to the country’s finest orchestral players,” he said.
“For our students to be involved in an event like this, and work hand in glove with Opera Queensland is an invaluable opportunity.
“Our partnership with Bleach* Festival gives our students absolute access and participation in a world-class event.”
Queensland Conservatorium Director Professor Scott Harrison said the partnership would give orchestral students a chance to be part of a high-profile professional production.
“For students to be an integral part of the Bleach Festival and the Gold Coast musical ecosystem is incredibly important,” he said.
Bleach* Festival Artistic Director and CEO Louise Bezzina, herself a Griffith alumnus, said the partnership would provide opportunities for students across the university, from marketing and events management to urban planning.
“We are thrilled to announce Griffith University as our major partner over the next three years,” she said.
“It’s more than just a logo on a program, it will provide great practical outcomes for students, from performance opportunities and internships.”
The partnership deal will provide industry experience for students enrolled in the new Bachelor of Creative Industries, which launches on the Gold Coast next year.
Bleach* Festival has attracted more than 470,000 people since 2012. The program features work across all genres including dance, theatre, contemporary music, opera, installations, circus and major public events.
The full program for Bleach* Festival will be announced in February 2019.
Tickets for Verdi’s Requiem are on sale now at hota.com.au