HighLight Carnival of Lights is gearing up to deliver an illuminating experience with an array of international light installations to wow the crowds over Easter weekend.
The major event is known for delivering immersive experiences that include performers, artists, and light installations colliding to create a fun carnival atmosphere. The event is a partnership with Late Night Lights, Gillies Group and Upper Hutt City Council.
After a four-year hiatus, the festival is back by popular demand and, for the first time, will be held in and around Brewtown in Upper Hutt from Thursday, 6 April to Sunday, 9 April 2023.
One of the headlining acts will be Evanescent, a creation of immersive bubbles designed by Atelier Sisu, a Sydney-based design studio whose work has been featured worldwide. Another mesmerising installation by Studio Toer in the Netherlands includes Firefly Field, where the audience will be captivated by a Lampyridae (elaterid beetles) glowing, darting, and hovering above the ground.
There will be a range of kiwi art installations on display, including works by New Zealand designer Angus Muir such as Filament, inspired by the Pohutukawa frond, which features 25 wands sweeping out of a steel base.
On the entertainment side, there will be performances by a range of local and national musicians, including The Blueprint, Urban Ersha, Cam & Sam Dueling Piano, Miles Calder & band and even Baby Ravers/Kidchella (DJs), where kids who are at DJ school will perform on the DJ Booth.
There will be plenty on offer for those interested in interactive performance experiences, including a Mass Karaoke – a HighLight regular and crowd favourite; a family show by New Zealand’s Crazy Aerobics, Sport and Circus fanatic, Sport Suzie; and even Traffic Light break-dancing using stop and go lights. The surprises will continue with roving and pop-up performances as part of the Carnival.
The festival will be a ticketed event in 2023, with tickets now on sale for $10 for adults with children 14 and under free. Tickets will provide access to the carnival hub at Brewtown; however, the public can enjoy several light installations throughout Upper Hutt at no cost.
Autism New Zealand is the chosen charity partner for HighLight 2023, and part of the Carnival’s programme will include a low-sensory evening, ensuring it is accessible and inclusive for all. Event attendees can visit one of Brewtowns craft breweries, eateries, and several food trucks as part of the Carnival. Donations to Autism New Zealand will be accessible via on-site bucket collectors at the event.
Tickets are on sale at ticketspace now.
