SEE THE STARS UNDER THE STARS WITH UNMISSABLE OUTDOOR MOVIE SCREENINGS AND SO MUCH MORE

BARBIE | THE GREATEST SHOWMAN | 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU

AACTA Festival have announced new events to the program including three incredible outdoor film screenings, live music, and events from your favourite shows including Yellowjackets, Colin From Accounts and The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart.

Pack up the picnic blanket and join us under the stars for an exclusive outdoor screening series at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) as part of the upcoming AACTA Festival. Featuring box office smashes and family favourites, the line up promises a magic escape for all ages and admission is free. The AACTA Festival is a four-day celebration of Australia's vibrant screen industry, that promises an immersive experience for all, from industry professionals to film enthusiasts, school-leavers, families, and aspiring creatives – all to be hosted at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) from February 8-11, 2024.

This summer, the stars align for three extraordinary outdoor screenings as festival goers can enjoy an unforgettable movie experience under the stars. Kicking off on Thursday February 9 is the 25th-anniversary screening of 10 Things I Hate About You, a timeless classic that introduced the world to the incomparable talent of the late, great Heath Ledger. On Friday February 10, prepare to be tickled pink with the box office smash hit Barbie, paired with a special BBQ and best-dressed competitions.  Then on Sunday February 11 bask in the magic of The Greatest Showman, one of the greatest musicals of all time, starring Australia’s own Hugh Jackman. Enjoy some gourmet picnic boxes and exquisite wines complete with a very special introduction from the Australian director, Michael Gracey. Come together and unite in community, under the stars, and experience the sheer magic of some of the most remarkable films ever made.All films will be held in the breathtaking setting of the Outdoor Stage at HOTA and are completely free to attend, guests will just need to register to secure their spot.

In addition to the outdoor screenings, AACTA are thrilled to announce new programming added to the festival including live music, meet the nominees and creator panels, an exclusive Yellowjackets Q&A, and much more. The full program can be viewed at aactafestival.com.

Queensland's talent takes centre stage as local music acts perform on the outdoor stage, offering free entertainment to festival guests. Soulful songstress Sunny Luwe brings feel-good bliss, while Kent Dustin shares his unique blend of indie folk sounds. Pop and soul singer Alisha Todd completes the line-up, enchanting with her '90s-inspired indie folk fusion.

The festival is delighted to expand on the Meet the Creators series – panel discussions with internationally renowned talent - with the addition of The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart and the team behind the hit TV show Colin From Accounts.

Our Meet the Nominee panels offer a chance to hear from some of Australia’s biggest stars, producers, and directors, nominated for a prestigious AACTA Award, now including a session with Actors nominated across both Film and Television. Festival Ambassadors, Lachlan and Austin Macfarlane will also be appearing in an event; Digital Dynamos Unleashed: The Ultimate Guide to Online Domination.

For industry guests, panels have also been expanded to include hot topic items such as The Future of Streaming and Looking Ahead At Screen Trends sessions. Also added is a special female-focussed Speed Networking event, which will give women a great platform to connect with their peers.

AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella has said, "AACTA is thrilled to unveil our expanded festival program with the unmissable outdoor screenings as a highlight. We're excited to curate an immersive experience under the stars, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the exceptional industry talent in Australia and beyond.”

Amanda Laing, Foxtel Group Chief Content and Commercial Officer, and BINGE Managing Director said, “The Foxtel Group is proud to support the AACTAs festival, bringing audiences closer to their favourite shows, talent and creators and providing an inside peek into the world of Australian storytelling.”

The AACTA Festival program is filled with opportunities for seasoned industry professionals, budding creators and the community alike to explore Australia’s screen sector and celebrate the Gold Coast’s leading role in it. Plan your visit, get your popcorn, and enjoy the show!

The AACTA Festival is now live.  For more information, please visit aactafestival.com to get your tickets and view the full program.

Key Details:

2024 AACTA Industry Awards presented by Foxtel Group & After Party Presented by Screen Queensland: Thursday, 8 February

2024 AACTA Awards Ceremony presented by Foxtel Group & Official After Party: Saturday, 10 February

AACTA Festival: Thursday, 8 February – Sunday, 11 February

10 Things I Hate About You Screening: 8 February

Barbie Screening: 9 February

The Greatest Showman Screening: 11 February

For information on the AACTA Awards and ticket sales, click here. 

For information on the AACTA Festival, click here.