The WANFIRE concert in Suva’s Buckhurst Park promises to be an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and community, commencing at 1 pm. This eagerly awaited event aims to transcend the boundaries of a traditional concert, serving as a vibrant showcase of the arts’ ability to uplift and unite communities. With the slogan “one fire, one beat, one space,” WANFIRE is envisioned by Reverend James Bhagwan as a platform where everyone—from toddlers to elders—can engage in a shared experience underscored by creativity and cultural pride.
The festival is the culmination of a year-long vision inspired by a series of cultural events across Fiji, such as Raiwaqa’s Poji’s Lament and Nadi’s Homecoming event. These gatherings have highlighted the arts’ role in knitting communities closer and converting local spaces into centers of courage and care. WANFIRE continues this momentum, building on successes like the ResFest and Fiji Fringe Festival, which have underscored the richness and economic significance of Fiji’s burgeoning music scene.
A unique facet of WANFIRE is its dual focus on established artists and emerging local talent. Ensembles like the Spectrum Collective are set to perform, leading to their headline show “Return of the Dragon” soon after the event. The festival’s mission is to make art accessible and meaningful and provide community employment opportunities by engaging technicians, vendors, and security personnel.
Reverend Bhagwan emphasizes the essential role of the arts in community development, comparing a band room to a leadership lab and a dance company to a health program. He advocates for consistent support for the arts, promoting the need for predictable funding and developmental avenues like mentorships and school-to-stage programs. WANFIRE celebrates cultural pride by incorporating diverse languages and art forms, encouraging ongoing engagement with art and culture.
As WANFIRE unfolds, it promises to be more than just an event; it represents a movement toward a creatively unified Fiji. The organizers invite the community to participate actively by attending, sharing the experience, and supporting local arts. This festival stands as a testament to the arts’ transformative power and its role in fostering a connected and compassionate society.