The WANFIRE concert in Suva’s Buckhurst Park is set to be an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and community. Starting at 1pm, this much-anticipated event is designed to be more than just a concert; it’s a vibrant showcase of the arts’ power to uplift and unite. With the slogan “one fire, one beat, one space,” WANFIRE is described by Reverend James Bhagwan as an arena where everyone, from toddlers to aunties, can partake in a shared experience underlined by creativity and cultural pride.
The festival’s vision has been a year in the making, inspired by a series of cultural events across Fiji, such as Raiwaqa’s Poji’s Lament and Nadi’s Homecoming event. These gatherings have demonstrated the role of the arts in stitching neighborhoods closer, transforming local spaces into hubs of courage and care. The momentum continues with WANFIRE, building on successes like the ResFest and Fiji Fringe Festival, which have highlighted the richness of Fiji’s original music scene and its economic significance.
WANFIRE is not just a platform for established artists but also a springboard for local talent. Acts like the Spectrum Collective will perform at the event and on other stages, notably at their headline show “Return of the Dragon” scheduled soon after. The festival aims to make art accessible, meaningful, and a source of community employment, offering roles for technicians, vendors, and security personnel.
Rev Bhagwan emphasizes the critical role of the arts in community development, likening a band room to a leadership lab and a dance company to a health program. He champions ongoing support for the arts, advocating for predictable funding and developmental pathways like mentorships and school-to-stage programs. The festival actively promotes the celebration of cultural pride by featuring diverse languages and art forms.
As WANFIRE begins, it carries the promise of being more than just a festival; it’s a movement towards a creative and united Fiji. There’s an earnest call for the community to engage by attending, sharing the experience, and supporting the local arts. This event stands as a testament to the transformative power of creativity and its role in fostering a kind and connected society.