Some WOMADelaide artists are just so special we need to have them back again. Their names appear in comments and replies online every year around our lineup announcement with keen observers often carefully studying tour dates to predetermine their imminent return.

Those special artists returning to Botanic Park in 2019 are...

Amjad Ali Khan - 2003, 2006

It's fitting that on his third WOMADelaide appearance, Amjad Ali Khan will be joined as a trio by his two sons Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash. The sarod master has graced many corners of the park, with appearances on Stage 2 and the Foundation with English cellist Matthew Barley in 2003. Three years later and he once again returned to Stage 2 with violinist Dr. L. Subramaniam before an intimate performance on the Zoo Stage lasting long in the memories of those who witnessed it. He and his two sons will be joined by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra in 2019, another group who have graced the stage at WOMADelaide on multiple occasions.

Angelique Kidjo - 2016

Angelique Kidjo doesn't do WOMADelaide half-heartedly. Her long-awaited appearance in 2016 saw her perform with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, who will be returning in 2019 for a magical performance with Amjad Ali Khan. Three years between sets and Angelique is bringing another once in a lifetime show to our festival. Performing Talking Heads' 1980's classic "Remain In Light", this will be something very special from the Grammy Award winner.

The Colour of Time - 2015

The highlight of WOMADelaide 2015 for many, the colour explosion that erupted in a frenzy of colour, music and dance as the sun set each night of the festival. Artonik's performance has received many desperate pleas for a return since its last appearance and we just had to oblige. Leave your kaleidoscope at home this year, you won't need it.

The Bamboos - 2010, 2013

We have been lucky to see the progression of The Bamboos from fresh faced groovers to Australian funk masters. With Tim Rogers at the helm in 2013 they drew a massive crowd in front of Stage 2, with 'I Got Burned' still fresh in the mind. Now they return with Kylie Auldist well and truly taking control of the vocals and singles such as Lit Up showing us that The Bamboos still got it.

John Butler Trio - 2001, 2008

The John Butler Trio are coming home and this time it will be bigger than ever, joined on stage by five musicians. The colossal growth of John Butler and his live shows has been witnessed like a time machine at WOMADelaide and the future looks very bright indeed. With a more personal focus on his latest album, singles such as Just Call and Tell Me Why give us a lot to be excited about.

Sharron Shannon - 2006, 2012

Another three-time attendee, renowned accordionist Sharon Shannon who will grace our lineup with her third project seen at the festival. Performing in 2006 with her Friends, and 2012 with her Big Band, 2018 sees the Australian debut of the Sharon Shannon Band. Inspired by a visit to New Mexico, Sacred Earth, Shannon's twelth studio album is nothing short of wonderful.

Thelma Plum - 2014

When Thelma Plum first stepped up to the Moreton Bay stage she was tipped as one of Australia's best young voices. Her 2018 release of Clumsy Love has cemented that thought and promised a lot for the future. Prepare to be lulled into Thelma's catchy nature, if you missed her in 2014 don't make that mistake again!

 

To see the full lineup

See Full Lineup