Brisbane up in lights for G20 Cultural Celebrations

Queenslanders will be able to play their own part in the G20 with an interactive lights display to highlight the Cultural Celebrations in the lead up to the Summit.

Premier Campbell Newman said the State Government was organising the event to take advantage of the vast economic and tourism benefits that would come to Queensland through the G20.

“The Lighting and Projection Project will illuminate the CBD for 17 nights in the lead up to the G20,” Mr Newman said.

“It will feature displays and interactive lighting shows across around 15 buildings, drawing the attention of people to our wonderful city.

“We expect up to 4,000 delegates and as many as 3,000 domestic and international media representatives, so the eyes of the world will be on Queensland and Brisbane will be on show.

“The G20 Cultural Celebrations will showcase our amazing state not just to the international media and global leaders but also to the people of Queensland and Australia.

“This is our chance to show the rest of world what a remarkable place we live in - a vibrant, strong state with a bright future.”

Creative Director Jono Perry said the show would have something for everyone.

“I’m excited about the Outdoor Activation we’re developing for the G20 Cultural Celebrations as Brisbane has so many wonderful spaces and buildings that we’ll be utilising in different ways,” Mr Perry said.

“My hope is that the people of Brisbane will be asking “What colour is Brisbane tonight?” as thelighting spreads across building facades.

“People will be able to interact with the control and chose the colour of certain buildings in the CBD as part of the event.

“The other major component is large format building projection across several landmark buildings in the city such as Parliament House which will show off the architectural form and present unique Queensland and G20 themed content.

“Whether it’s locals or some of the many international visitors arriving before the leaders’ summit, they’ll take away a memorable experience from the celebrations."

Arts Minister Ian Walker said the total G20 Cultural Celebrations program was still in development and consisted of a number of events that people could watch, engage and participate in.

“The creative directors, Jono Perry and Athol Young are putting together an exciting program,” Mr Walker said.

“Whether it’s a Latin dance extravaganza, music programs in venues all over Brisbane, the interactive lighting and projection show or a community-driven project, there are lots of ways different people can be involved.”

Mr Walker said the G20 Cultural Celebrations demonstrated the Queensland Government’s commitment to delivering Arts for All Queenslanders.

“We’ve been working hard to foster our local talent and the G20 Cultural Celebrations will allow us to show them to a global audience,” Mr Walker said.

“The celebrations won’t just be limited to the city, but will also involve community based free activities throughout the suburbs of Brisbane.”

For more information on the G20 Cultural Celebrations www.qld.gov.au/g20cultural

[ENDS] 22 May 2014

Media contact: Premier’s office 3719 7000

Minister Walker - Monica Rostron 0409 126 332